This Creamy Chicken Scampi recipe is a copycat version of the popular Olive Garden dish, bringing all the creamy, garlicky goodness right to your kitchen. With tender chicken breast pieces, a rich buttery sauce, and a generous amount of Parmesan cheese, this dish is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal.
Servings & Timing
Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: About 35 minutes
Ingredients List
- 1½ pounds chicken breast, cut into tender-sized pieces
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 tablespoons butter, divided
- ¾ cup chicken stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper, and cook them in the skillet for 5–7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Pour the chicken stock into the skillet, stirring to combine with the butter and garlic. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Next, stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer and thicken for another 4–5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Parmesan and Chicken
Once the sauce has thickened, add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it into the sauce. Let everything simmer together for another 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the creamy chicken scampi hot. This dish is perfect with a side of pasta, rice, or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Additional Notes
- For a richer sauce, feel free to add more Parmesan or a splash of pasta water if you’re serving it with pasta.
- You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
- Make sure to cook the garlic gently to avoid bitterness.
Dietary Info (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g
Keto-friendly, low-carb, gluten-free.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Step 1: Cook chicken until golden and cooked through
Step 2: Sauté garlic in butter
Step 3: Add chicken stock and simmer
Step 4: Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan
Step 5: Return chicken to the skillet and simmer
Step 6: Serve hot and enjoy
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
Chicken Breast
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast is best for this dish, but you can use thighs if you prefer a juicier cut.
- If using leftover chicken, simply add it to the sauce at the end.
Heavy Cream
- Full-fat heavy cream gives the sauce its rich and creamy texture. You can substitute with half-and-half, but the sauce will be lighter.
Parmesan Cheese
- Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor and smoothest texture. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it may not melt as well.
Chicken Stock
- You can use low-sodium chicken stock for better control over salt content. Vegetable broth works well as a substitute for a lighter flavor.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Add Vegetables
- Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach toward the end for added color and nutrients.
- Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms along with the garlic for a hearty twist.
Spicy Version
- Add red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of chili paste for a spicy kick.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi
- Add extra garlic and Parmesan for an even more robust flavor.
Serving Ideas
- Serve over spaghetti squash, zucchini noodles, or regular pasta for a full meal.
- Pair with garlic bread or steamed vegetables for a complete dinner.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerator
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Freezer
- This dish can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Yes, substitute the cream and cheese with dairy-free alternatives, such as coconut cream and plant-based cheese.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to the dish.
Q: Can I add pasta to this recipe?
A: Yes! This creamy chicken scampi makes a great sauce for pasta. Just add your cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
Optional Personal Story
This creamy chicken scampi is a recipe that’s been in my rotation for years. I love how easy it is to make, yet how indulgent it tastes. It’s my go-to dish when I want something comforting, flavorful, and sure to impress. And honestly, who doesn’t love a creamy garlic sauce with tender chicken?
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