Chicken Scampi
Ingredients:
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or tenders), cut into bite-sized pieces
8 oz linguine or spaghetti (or your preferred pasta)
4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
5 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth for non-alcoholic option)
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Scampi Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the white wine (or extra chicken broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Stir in the chicken broth and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it in the sauce. Let it heat through for about 2 minutes.
5. Add the Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it in the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
6. Serve:
Serve the Chicken Scampi hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.