Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi Recipe

Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi Recipe: A Taste of Italy at Home

Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi is a delicious entrée perfect for any occasion. While many chefs and Olive Garden managers travel to Italy each year to train at the Olive Garden Culinary Institute of Tuscany, you don’t need to pack your bags to savor this mouthwatering dish. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can recreate the beloved flavors of Olive Garden right in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: With just a few common ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal at home.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Customize it with your favorite vegetables or pasta types for a personal touch.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

Ingredients for Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi

To make this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream (or milk)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 orange bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 medium-sized red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 clove garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 pound pasta, cooked according to package directions
• 3/4 cup white wine
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasonings

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, and pepper.
• In another shallow dish, pour in the heavy cream (or milk).
• Dredge the chicken tenders in the flour mixture, then dip them into the heavy cream, and dredge again in the flour.
• Place the coated chicken on a rack or baking dish and let it rest for 10 minutes.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• While the chicken is resting, prepare the vegetables.
• In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the sliced bell peppers, red onion, and garlic, seasoning with a dash of salt.
• Sauté the vegetables until they start to brown, then remove them from the skillet.

3. Cook the Chicken

• In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
• Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
• Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

4. Create the Sauce

• To deglaze the pan, add white wine and Italian seasoning, scraping the bottom to lift the browned bits.
• Stir in the heavy cream and mix well.
• Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet and stir.

5. Combine and Serve

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing everything together until well combined.
• Serve the pasta topped with a few pieces of chicken and enjoy the wonderful flavors of Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi without leaving home.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Scampi

• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Wine Choice: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best for deglazing.
• Pasta Options: While the recipe suggests standard pasta, you can try it with linguine or fettuccine for a different texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat and cook the pasta.

Is there a vegetarian version of Chicken Scampi?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or additional vegetables for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Want More Delicious Recipes?

Craving more scrumptious and healthy recipes? Dive into my Pinterest board for a treasure trove of culinary inspiration! And if you’re eager to make meal prep even simpler, don’t miss out on my cookbook, The How-To Cookbook for Teens: 100 Easy Recipes to Learn the Basics. It’s brimming with quick, easy recipes designed to elevate your cooking game. Grab your copy today and start transforming your meals!

Get Cooking!

Are you ready to bring the flavors of Olive Garden into your home? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delectable meal that’s sure to impress. What’s your favorite Italian dish to cook at home? Share your thoughts and let me know how your Chicken Scampi turns out!