When it comes to indulgent comfort food, the Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Recipe is a winner in my book. As a long-time food lover and blogger, I can’t help but reminisce about the first time I tasted this dish. Just the thought of tender chicken, rich garlic butter sauce, and al dente pasta makes my mouth water. It’s amazing how one recipe can take you back, isn’t it? Over the years, I have perfected my version of this delicious meal, and I’m excited to share it with you.
Ingredients for Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi
To whip up this scrumptious meal, start by gathering the ingredients. Here is what I typically use:
Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Scampi Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta:
How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi
Cooking the chicken properly is key to making this dish delicious. I like to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, which ensures they cook evenly. Season both sides with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about six minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, it’s the perfect time to boil the pasta. I usually cook my linguine or fettuccine according to package directions until it’s al dente. This step takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Remember to reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining, as this will help thicken the sauce later.
Making the Scampi Sauce
For the sauce, melt butter in the same skillet used for the chicken. The flavors from the chicken will add extra depth to the sauce. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute. Be cautious not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
Once the garlic is fragrant, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about five minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. Next, stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. This is where the magic happens! Allow it to simmer until it thickens, which should take about five minutes.
Combining Everything Together
Now that the chicken and sauce are ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the sauce. Then, toss in the cooked pasta, along with a bit of reserved pasta water. This will help bind the sauce to the pasta.
Finally, let the dish simmer for another minute so all the flavors meld together beautifully. Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper to your taste!
Serving Your Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi
Once everything is cooked and combined, serve it hot on a plate. To make it visually appealing, sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish. A generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese adds extra flavor and richness.
I love to serve this dish with a side of garlic bread. The crispy, buttery bread pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce, allowing for a delicious combination.
Tips for Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi
When making this recipe, a few tips can help elevate the dish:
- Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a more intense flavor.
- Allow your chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking, which keeps it juicy.
- If you like spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- For a lighter version, substitute half and half for heavy cream.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, they are just as amazing the next day! Store any remaining chicken scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within three days, but I hardly ever have leftovers.
When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to the mixture to help keep it creamy. Heat it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
Variations of Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi
Don’t be afraid to get creative! You can switch things up in various ways:
- Add vegetables: Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms can enhance the dish’s texture and flavor.
- Shrimp scampi: For a seafood twist, replace chicken with shrimp. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as shrimp cook faster.
- Zoodles: Keep it low-carb by using zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta.
Pairing Suggestions
If you’re planning a full meal, think about pairing your Chicken Scampi with these options:
- A fresh Caesar salad complements the richness of the dish nicely.
- For a fun twist, a fruit-infused sparkling water can cleanse your palate.
This Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Recipe has become a favorite in my home. It is not only delicious but also easy to prepare for weeknight dinners. I enjoy how it brings everyone together around the table, sharing stories and laughter.
Having a homemade version of this restaurant favorite is a great way to save a little money while still indulging in comfort food. So next time you’re craving something special, get into your kitchen and whip up this delicious meal. I promise, you won’t regret it!