Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Scampi: A Restaurant-Quality Dish Made Easy

This Olive Garden Chicken Scampi copycat recipe brings the beloved restaurant classic right to your kitchen. Featuring perfectly breaded chicken tenders, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, creamy garlic white wine sauce, all tossed with delicate angel hair pasta, it’s a dish that promises both elegance and comfort. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this surprisingly simple yet utterly delicious meal that rivals the original.

Recreating your favorite restaurant dishes at home is not only incredibly satisfying but also offers a fantastic way to enjoy gourmet flavors without the hefty price tag or the need to leave your cozy home. This homemade Olive Garden Chicken Scampi recipe is a prime example, delivering a dish that tastes like it came straight from a professional kitchen, yet is incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two, a special family meal, or simply craving an indulgent pasta dish, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and beautiful presentation are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Chicken Scampi Recipe

• Restaurant Quality at Home: Imagine savoring the exact flavors of Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi right from your own dining table. This copycat recipe meticulously captures the essence of the restaurant’s popular dish, allowing you to enjoy a high-quality meal without the wait, the crowds, or the expense of dining out. You get all the authentic taste and experience, tailored perfectly to your preferences, anytime you desire.
• Ultimate Comfort Food: There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of pasta enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce. This chicken scampi delivers exactly that, with a rich parmesan-infused sauce that is both velvety and deeply satisfying. Paired with succulent chicken and tender-crisp vegetables, every forkful offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will soothe your soul and leave you feeling utterly content. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy evening in or a celebratory meal.
• Surprisingly Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance and complex taste, this Chicken Scampi recipe is remarkably straightforward. Even if you’re not an experienced chef, the clear, step-by-step instructions ensure a seamless cooking process. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up this elegant dish, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Customizable to Your Liking: One of the greatest advantages of cooking at home is the ability to adjust ingredients to suit your dietary needs or personal taste preferences. Want a little more garlic? Go for it! Prefer a different type of pasta or an extra serving of vegetables? This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to easily experiment with variations to make it uniquely yours.

Essential Ingredients and Clever Substitutions for Chicken Scampi

Crafting the perfect Olive Garden Chicken Scampi at home relies on a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and smart substitutions to make this dish work for everyone:

• Olive oil: This forms the base for sautéing, imparting a subtle, fruity flavor. If you don’t have olive oil, any neutral cooking oil such as canola, avocado, or grapeseed oil will work perfectly without altering the overall taste significantly.
• Chicken tenders: We use chicken tenders for their inherent tenderness and quick cooking time. For a budget-friendly option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be easily cut into tender-sized strips. Chicken thighs or turkey breasts are also excellent alternatives, offering a slightly different texture and richness. Make sure to cut them uniformly for even cooking.
• Flour: All-purpose flour is ideal for creating that classic, lightly breaded exterior on the chicken, which helps it achieve a golden crispness. For those with dietary restrictions, whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and more fiber, while a good quality gluten-free flour blend will ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious meal.
• Italian seasoning: This aromatic blend of herbs is crucial for imparting the signature Italian flavor to the chicken. Store-bought Italian seasoning is convenient, but for a fresher, more potent flavor, consider making your own homemade Italian seasoning with dried oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram.
• Angel hair pasta: Traditionally, chicken scampi is served over delicate angel hair pasta, which perfectly cradles the creamy sauce. However, feel free to use any pasta of your choice. Spaghetti or fettuccine are popular alternatives that also work wonderfully with a rich sauce. The key is to cook the pasta al dente to ensure it has a slight bite.
• Red, yellow, and green bell peppers: These colorful vegetables add not only a burst of sweetness and freshness but also beautiful visual appeal to the dish. Don’t worry if you only have one color on hand; any combination of bell peppers will contribute to the vibrant flavor profile. They are also packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
• Red onion: Red onion offers a slightly sharper, sweeter flavor compared to other onions. However, white onion, yellow onion, or even milder shallots would be equally delicious, each lending a slightly different aromatic note to the dish.
• Butter: Butter is essential for creating the rich, luscious sauce that defines scampi. It adds depth and a silky texture. While olive oil can be used as a substitute, it will yield a slightly less creamy and decadent sauce.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is highly recommended for its potent aroma and flavor, which are central to any scampi. While jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch, fresh garlic offers a superior taste experience.
• Chicken broth: This forms the liquid base of our flavorful sauce. Vegetable broth or stock can be seamlessly substituted for chicken broth, providing a similar savory depth and ensuring the sauce is rich and well-rounded.
• Dry white wine: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or Pinot Grigio adds a sophisticated layer of flavor and helps deglaze the pan, picking up all those delicious browned bits. If you prefer an alcohol-free option, simply use an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth, or even a splash of lemon juice to mimic the acidity.
• Heavy cream: This is what gives the sauce its luxurious, velvety texture. For a slightly lighter version, half-and-half or even whole milk can be used, but be aware that the sauce will not be as thick or as creamy.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts beautifully into the sauce, adding a salty, umami kick and contributing to the sauce’s rich body. For a dairy-free alternative, nutritional yeast is an excellent substitute, offering a cheesy flavor profile without the dairy.
• Fresh parsley: Used primarily for garnish, fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish just before serving.

How to Master Homemade Olive Garden Chicken Scampi

Making this restaurant-worthy dish at home is simpler than you might think. Follow these clear steps to achieve a truly delicious Olive Garden Chicken Scampi:

Step 1: Prepare and Bread the Chicken.

Begin by setting up your breading station. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour with the Italian seasoning, ensuring it’s well mixed. Take your chicken tenders, or thinly sliced chicken breast, and season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Then, toss each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, coating it evenly. Shake off any excess flour to ensure a light, crispy crust when cooked. This breading step is key to achieving the tender interior and golden exterior of the chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Perfectly Golden Chicken.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the hot pan, being careful not to overcrowd it. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it’s beautifully golden brown and fully cooked through with no pink remaining in the center. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, allowing it to rest while you prepare the rest of the dish. This resting period helps the chicken remain juicy.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies and Cook the Pasta.

Using the same skillet (no need to wipe it clean; those browned bits add flavor!), add the sliced bell peppers and red onion. Season them lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté the vegetables for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp – you want them to retain a slight crunch. While the vegetables are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your angel hair pasta and cook according to package directions until it’s al dente. Reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta; this starchy water is a secret weapon for thickening your sauce later.

Step 4: Create the Signature Creamy Garlic White Wine Sauce.

Melt the butter in the now-empty skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can make it bitter. Pour in the chicken broth and dry white wine, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to meld. Reduce the heat to low, then slowly stir in the heavy cream. Finally, add the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. The sauce should be glossy and inviting.

Step 5: Gently Combine All the Elements.

Return the cooked pasta and sautéed vegetables to the skillet with the creamy scampi sauce. Using tongs or a large spoon, gently toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are thoroughly coated in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water helps bind the sauce to the pasta and adds a silky texture.

Step 6: Serve Immediately and Savor Every Bite!

Divide the creamy pasta and vegetable mixture among serving plates. Top each portion generously with the golden-brown chicken tenders. For a finishing touch and a burst of fresh flavor, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve this magnificent Olive Garden Chicken Scampi warm and enjoy the restaurant-quality experience in your own home!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Scampi

Can I make this recipe without wine?

Absolutely! The dry white wine primarily serves to deglaze the pan and add a layer of complex acidity. If you prefer to omit alcohol, you can substitute the white wine with an equal amount of chicken broth or vegetable broth. For a similar depth of flavor and brightness, you can also add a splash of fresh lemon juice along with the broth. This ensures your sauce still has that desirable tang.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes, making this chicken scampi dairy-free is entirely achievable! For the butter, opt for a plant-based butter substitute. Instead of Parmesan cheese, nutritional yeast is an excellent alternative that offers a savory, cheesy flavor profile. For the heavy cream, choose your favorite dairy-free cream alternative, such as full-fat coconut milk (for a subtle coconut hint) or a plant-based culinary cream. The sauce might have a slightly different texture, but it will still be rich and delicious.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

There are a few ways to achieve a thicker sauce. First, ensure you’ve allowed the sauce to simmer uncovered for a few minutes after adding the cream and Parmesan; this helps it reduce naturally. If it’s still not thick enough, you can stir in some of the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time; the starch in the water helps thicken the sauce. Alternatively, you can create a simple cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) and whisk it into the simmering sauce. Let it cook for another minute or two until it reaches your desired consistency.

What are the best tips to keep the chicken tender and juicy?

Keeping the chicken tender is crucial for this dish. Firstly, using chicken tenders or thinly sliced chicken breast helps, as they cook faster. Before cooking, lightly pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures it cooks uniformly, preventing drier, overcooked spots. Most importantly, cook the chicken just until it’s golden brown on the outside and no longer pink inside. Overcooking will quickly dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Also, allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute, keeping it succulent.

Can I prepare any components of this dish in advance for meal prep?

While the full dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can definitely do some meal prepping. The chicken tenders can be breaded and cooked in advance, then stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The bell peppers and onions can also be sliced and prepped ahead of time. However, it’s best to cook the pasta and the sauce fresh just before serving to maintain optimal texture and flavor. The sauce, while tasty, tends to thicken significantly upon cooling and might require extra liquid when reheating.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Olive Garden Chicken Scampi

This Olive Garden Chicken Scampi recipe is a complete and satisfying meal all on its own. However, if you’re looking to round out your dinner or simply enhance the experience, here are some fantastic side dishes that complement its rich flavors beautifully:

• Classic Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad, perhaps with a tangy vinaigrette, offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. For an authentic experience, try a Copycat Olive Garden Salad, complete with olives, tomatoes, and a signature Italian dressing.
• Hearty Soups: Start your meal with a warming bowl of soup. Options like Zuppa Toscana or Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup are perfect for a full Olive Garden-inspired feast.
• Crusty Bread or Breadsticks: No pasta dish is complete without something to soak up that delicious sauce. Serve with warm garlic bread, a fresh crusty loaf, or even better, a batch of Olive Garden breadsticks for the ultimate copycat meal.
• Roasted Asparagus: For a simple yet elegant vegetable side, Garlic Parmesan Asparagus or plain roasted asparagus provides a tender, slightly crisp accompaniment that adds a healthy green element.
• Sweet Corn on the Cob: A vibrant and sweet side like Corn on the Cob can add a lovely pop of color and a different texture to the meal, especially delightful in warmer months.

Storing and Reheating Your Delicious Leftovers

Proper storage and reheating ensure you can enjoy this delightful Chicken Scampi for days to come. Here’s how to manage your leftovers effectively:

Store: Once the dish has cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will keep the pasta, chicken, and sauce fresh and ready for your next meal.

Reheat: To reheat, the best method is in a skillet over medium heat on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce, as it tends to thicken in the fridge. Stir gently until the dish is heated through and the sauce has returned to a desirable consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot, though the stovetop method generally yields better results, preserving the chicken’s texture and the sauce’s creaminess.

Freeze and Reheat from Frozen: While the chicken tenders can be frozen successfully, the pasta and creamy sauce don’t typically fare well with freezing and thawing, as the pasta can become mushy and the sauce may separate. For best results, cook and freeze only the breaded chicken tenders. Thaw the frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to eat, reheat the thawed chicken and then prepare a fresh batch of pasta and sauce to toss together. This way, you get to enjoy a nearly fresh meal with minimal effort.

Handy Meal Prep Tools for This Chicken Scampi Recipe

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience even smoother and more efficient. Here are a couple of recommended items to help you with this recipe and your general meal prep:

• Grab some glass meal prep bowls if you plan on storing the leftovers. These are excellent for keeping food fresh, are microwave-safe, and perfect for transporting your meals.
• For high-quality, free-range chicken, consider ButcherBox. They offer convenient delivery of humanely raised, grass-fed, and organic meats directly to your door, ensuring you always have premium ingredients on hand for dishes like this scampi.