Chicken Scampi from Olive Garden features tender sauteed chicken breast cooked in a garlic butter sauce with white wine, lemon, and fresh herbs, served over a bed of al dente linguine and garnished with parsley, delivering a flavorful and aromatic Italian classic.
Equipments
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Tongs
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Large pot
- Colander
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Citrus juicer or reamer (optional)
- Grater or microplane (optional, for zesting lemon)
- Serving platter or plates
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb (450g) linguine
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 fresh lemon
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil (optional)
When preparing Chicken Scampi, selecting boneless, skinless chicken breasts ensures tender and evenly cooked meat that absorbs the garlic butter sauce effectively. Using dry white wine adds a subtle acidity that balances the richness of butter and olive oil, while fresh lemon juice brightens the overall flavor profile. Fresh herbs like parsley and optional basil contribute vibrant color and aroma, enhancing the dish's authenticity. Pay attention to seasoning with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to achieve a perfect balance of heat and flavor. Your Chicken Scampi from Olive Garden copycat menu will taste best when you use quality ingredients that replicate the original's savory complexity.
Instructions
- Slice chicken breasts into thin strips.
- Mince garlic cloves.
- Chop fresh parsley (and basil, if using).
- Zest and juice the lemon.
- Grate Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Cook linguine in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season sliced chicken with salt and pepper.
- Add chicken to the skillet; sauté until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Pour in white wine and chicken broth; add crushed red pepper flakes.
- Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest.
- Return chicken to skillet; toss to coat in sauce.
- Add cooked linguine to skillet; toss everything together to combine and heat through.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Remove from heat; sprinkle with chopped parsley (and basil, if using).
- Serve on a platter or individual plates.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Substitution
Chicken Scampi from Olive Garden copycat menu can be easily adapted if you run out of white wine by substituting with chicken broth or a combination of broth and a splash of white grape juice for a similar acidity and flavor profile. Your fresh lemon can be replaced with bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh zest adds an extra burst of citrus aroma that enhances the dish. If boneless, skinless chicken breasts are unavailable, consider using chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful result. Linguine can be swapped for spaghetti or fettuccine depending on your pantry, ensuring pasta cooks just until al dente for ideal texture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control seasoning better, making it important to taste and adjust salt levels during the cooking process.
Tips
Ensure the chicken breasts are thinly sliced for even cooking and tender texture. Use a large skillet to allow enough space for the chicken to brown properly without overcrowding. When cooking the linguine, salt the boiling water generously to enhance flavor, and drain pasta just until al dente to avoid mushiness when tossed with the sauce. You can zest and juice the lemon using a microplane or citrus juicer for maximum fresh lemon flavor without bitterness.
Nutritions
Chicken Scampi offers a balanced source of protein from the boneless, skinless chicken breasts, essential for muscle repair and satiety. The olive oil and butter provide healthy fats that support cardiovascular health while enhancing the dish's rich flavor. Linguine adds complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, complemented by the antioxidants in garlic, fresh lemon, and parsley which promote immune function. Your meal also benefits from moderate sodium levels due to low-sodium chicken broth and seasoning adjustments, supporting heart health and blood pressure control.
Storage
Store leftover Chicken Scampi in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate promptly and consume within 3 to 4 days to ensure optimal flavor and safety. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore the sauce's creamy texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute chicken breasts with shrimp or scallops for a seafood variation that complements the garlic butter sauce. Swap the dry white wine for chicken broth or a splash of white grape juice if you prefer a non-alcoholic option while maintaining moisture and flavor. For a richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream just before adding the linguine to the skillet. Try cooking the linguine in lemon-infused water or tossing it with lemon zest at the end to enhance the bright citrus notes in your dish.
Allergies
Chicken Scampi from Olive Garden contains several common allergens, including dairy from butter and Parmesan cheese, as well as gluten from the linguine pasta. The dish also features garlic and lemon, which may cause sensitivities in some individuals. If you have allergies or intolerances related to dairy, gluten, or specific herbs and spices, be sure to inform your server before ordering.
Why this recipe?
Olive Garden's Chicken Scampi is beloved for its tender sauteed chicken, rich garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that satisfy cravings for Italian comfort food. The dish's balance of zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese enhances its savory profile, making it a standout menu option. You can recreate this classic at home to enjoy the same restaurant-quality taste while customizing ingredients for dietary preferences. Trying the copycat recipe is worth it, as it delivers a fresh, homemade version of a popular dish without the wait or expense.