Chicken Scampi

Creamy chicken scampi with angel hair pasta, bell peppers, garlic, and parmesan cheese. Quick and flavorful weeknight dinner or special occasion meal with rich, buttery sauce.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225 g) angel hair pasta
• 1½ pounds (650 g) chicken tenderloins (mini chicken fillets in the UK)
• ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons salt, divided
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (28 g) butter
• 1 medium red onion, sliced into half-moons
• ½ medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ medium yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ medium green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, crushed
• ½ cup (120 ml) dry white wine
• ½ cup (120 ml) whipping cream
• ½ cup (43 g) grated parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil water in a medium saucepan, add salt, and cook angel hair pasta according to package instructions.
2. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Dredge chicken tenderloins in flour seasoned with Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown chicken for about 3 minutes per side until cooked through.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet, cover, and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Melt butter in the same skillet. Add onions and bell peppers; cook 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
2. Add crushed garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in white wine, deglaze the pan, and reduce for about 4 minutes.
4. Stir in reserved pasta water and whipping cream, then simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add parmesan cheese, remaining salt, and red chili flakes (if using).

Step 4: Combine

1. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
2. Return chicken to the skillet and mix gently.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, flavorful sauce with tender chicken and crisp bell peppers.
• Quick to prepare yet impressive enough for dinner guests.
• Balanced meal with protein, pasta, and vegetables in one dish.
• Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

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Tips

• Use freshly grated parmesan for better flavor and creamier sauce.
• Don’t overcook angel hair pasta — it cooks very quickly.
• Deglaze the pan thoroughly to incorporate all chicken flavors into the sauce.
• Adjust chili flakes for desired heat level.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein: Swap chicken with shrimp for a seafood version.
• Pasta: Use fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti if preferred.
• Cream: Substitute half-and-half or light cream for a lighter sauce.
• Vegetables: Add spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, cook chicken and pasta separately, prepare the sauce, then combine just before serving.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely, adjust cooking time according to package instructions.

Is white wine necessary?
Wine adds depth, but chicken broth can be used as a non-alcoholic substitute.

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Serving

Serve immediately as a main course. Pair with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

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Suggestions

• Garnish with lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.
• Top with extra parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like basil or thyme.
• Serve with a glass of white wine for a classic pairing.