Creamy Chicken Scampi Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Scampi is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken with a zesty garlic butter lemon sauce. Served over pasta, it makes for a satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 8 ounces pasta of your choice

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Step 3: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
4. Step 4: Pour the lemon juice over the chicken and let it simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Step 5: Serve the chicken and lemon garlic sauce over the cooked pasta. Spoon extra sauce over the top for added flavor.

Tips & Variations

• For extra richness, add a splash of white wine to the sauce before simmering the lemon juice.
• Use fresh parsley or basil as a garnish to add color and freshness.
• Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier texture if preferred.

Storage

Store leftover chicken scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent drying out, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure the chicken is fully thawed before cooking to ensure even doneness and proper browning.

What type of pasta works best with chicken scampi?

Long pasta like linguine or spaghetti pairs well, but feel free to use penne, fettuccine, or any pasta you prefer.

Creamy Chicken Scampi Pasta Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 64 reviews

A classic Chicken Scampi recipe featuring tender chicken sautéed in garlic butter and lemon sauce, served over a bed of pasta for a quick and delicious Italian-inspired meal.

• Author: Yana
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Sauce

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Juice of 1 lemon

Pasta

• 8 ounces pasta (such as linguine or spaghetti)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.
3. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
4. Make Lemon Sauce: Add the juice of one lemon to the skillet with the garlic butter. Stir and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to blend flavors.
5. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and coat with the lemon garlic sauce. Serve the chicken over the prepared pasta, spooning extra sauce on top.

Notes

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Chicken breasts can be pounded to an even thickness for quicker cooking.
• Add chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese as garnish if desired.
• For a lower calorie version, use olive oil instead of butter.

Keywords: chicken scampi, garlic butter chicken, lemon chicken pasta, Italian chicken recipe