Chicken Scampi Pasta is one of those recipes that instantly transports you to the sun-drenched patios of your favorite Italian-American trattoria, with aromatic garlic, lemony brightness, and perfectly seared chicken mingling amongst twirls of silky pasta. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s as impressive for guests as it is nourishing for a busy weeknight. The light, zesty sauce clinging to every bite, the melt-in-your-mouth Parmesan, and those pops of fresh parsley make this pasta a dish you’ll return to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Chicken Scampi Pasta lies in its straightforward yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a starring role—bringing bold flavors, luscious texture, or a pop of color that makes the finished dish impossible to resist.
- Chicken breasts: Tender strips of boneless, skinless chicken soak up all the garlicky-lemon flavor and add satisfying protein to every bite.
- Linguine or spaghetti: Twirl-friendly noodles are ideal for soaking up every bit of that luscious, aromatic sauce.
- Olive oil: Used for both sautéing and finishing, it adds a fruity undertone that elevates the entire dish.
- Unsalted butter: Gives the sauce a glossy finish and round, rich flavor while balancing the tang of lemon and wine.
- Garlic cloves: Six generous cloves pack the sauce with that unmistakable bold, savory taste.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For just the right kick of gentle heat, sprinkle these to your preference.
- Dry white wine or chicken broth: Either option will deglaze the skillet and form the foundation of the sauce, with wine adding complexity or broth keeping it family-friendly.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the entire dish and is essential for that classic scampi zing.
- Salt and black pepper: These kitchen essentials awaken every other flavor in the mix.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Nutty, salty, and melty—Parmesan brings the final creamy touch to the pasta.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkled just before serving, parsley adds fresh color and a pop of herby brightness.
How to Make Chicken Scampi Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Get your pasta water boiling with a generous spoonful of salt, then cook your linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until perfectly al dente. Before draining, be sure to scoop out about half a cup of that glorious, starchy pasta water—it’ll help you get the sauce just right later on. Set the pasta aside while you move on to the chicken.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
While your noodles are bubbling away, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss your chicken strips with salt and pepper, then lay them in the skillet so they get beautifully golden and cooked through, about four to five minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want them to caramelize, not steam! Remove the chicken to a plate and keep it handy.
Step 3: Build the Garlic-Lemon Sauce
Using the same skillet (don’t wipe it out—you want those tasty browned bits), add your remaining olive oil and all the butter. Once the butter has melted into the oil, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Let them sizzle for a minute or two, just until wonderfully fragrant. Pour in the wine or broth and squeeze over the fresh lemon juice. Let everything simmer and reduce for a few minutes, which intensifies the flavors and marries them together.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Now bring in your reserved noodles and chicken, tossing them right into the skillet with that irresistible sauce. If the mixture looks a little tight, slowly add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired sauciness. Sprinkle over the grated Parmesan and fresh parsley, toss again until everything is coated and glossy, and you’re ready to serve up this Chicken Scampi Pasta masterpiece.
How to Serve Chicken Scampi Pasta
Garnishes
Finish your Chicken Scampi Pasta with a rain of extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. A wedge of lemon on the side adds a lovely visual pop and lets everyone add an extra squeeze of brightness at the table. If you love color, a dash of red pepper flakes or even a few twists of cracked black pepper make it restaurant-pretty.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs perfectly with a crisp, simple salad—think mixed greens, arugula, or even a classic Caesar. For a heartier touch, warm crusty bread is ideal for sopping up any leftover sauce, while roasted or steamed veggies like asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli add freshness without overpowering the pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Chicken Scampi Pasta in a deep platter piled high, twirled into elegant nests for individual plating, or even family-style in your favorite rustic bowl. For a festive touch, top each serving with lemon zest spirals or a bouquet of microgreens. Add a carafe of chilled white wine to the table to make it a true occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, pack any leftover Chicken Scampi Pasta in an airtight container and stash it in the fridge. It’ll keep fresh for up to three days. The flavors actually mellow and deepen overnight, making for a pretty fantastic next-day lunch.
Freezing
While freshly made is best, you can freeze Chicken Scampi Pasta! Transfer cooled portions to freezer-safe containers, making sure there’s as little air as possible. It’s best eaten within one month—just note that the pasta may be slightly softer when reheated.
Reheating
For the tastiest results, reheat Chicken Scampi Pasta gently in a skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Stir often until just heated through. The microwave works for single portions, but keep the heat medium and stir halfway for even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While linguine and spaghetti are traditional for Chicken Scampi Pasta, penne, fettuccine, or even angel hair work beautifully. Whatever shape you choose, al dente is key for the silkiest, most satisfying result.
Is there a wine-free version of the sauce?
Yes! Simply swap the white wine for an equal amount of chicken broth. You’ll still get delicious flavor and a gorgeous glossy sauce, just without the boozy undertone—perfect for a family-friendly Chicken Scampi Pasta.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Go ahead and use plant-based butter and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. You’ll still get a rich, creamy sauce that clings to the pasta, and the overall flavor of Chicken Scampi Pasta will remain zesty and satisfying.
What other veggies can I add?
This recipe is super flexible! Try tossing in sautéed bell peppers, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even mushrooms in step three. These additions bring both color and extra nutrition without overshadowing the main flavors.
Can I prepare parts of this in advance?
Certainly! You can slice the chicken, mince the garlic, and even cook the pasta a few hours ahead. Store everything separately, and when you’re ready for dinner, assemble and toss—all the freshness of Chicken Scampi Pasta, minus the last-minute rush.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Scampi Pasta recipe is pure weeknight magic—quick to prepare, totally satisfying, and always a hit no matter who’s at your table. Give it a try and let yourself fall in love: you might find it becoming your new go-to whenever you crave something fresh, zippy, and just a little bit fancy.
Print
Chicken Scampi Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Chicken Scampi Pasta recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken strips, al dente linguine, and a flavorful garlic lemon sauce. It’s a perfect dish for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into thin strips)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water, drain, and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Brown chicken strips in olive oil, then set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Sauté garlic, add wine, lemon juice, and reduce.
- Combine: Toss pasta and chicken in the sauce, then add Parmesan and parsley.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and garlic before cooking.
- You can also add sautéed bell peppers or spinach for a veggie boost.
- Swap wine for broth to make it family-friendly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
