Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Recipe – A Creamy, Garlicky Delight

Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi is a flavorful and indulgent dish that has captured the hearts of many food lovers. Known for its creamy garlic butter sauce, perfectly cooked chicken, and tender pasta, this dish combines bold flavors that are both comforting and satisfying.

Whether you’re a fan of Olive Garden or simply looking for an easy yet impressive meal to prepare at home, this Chicken Scampi recipe is the perfect choice.

It brings the rich, decadent taste of restaurant-quality food into your own kitchen, allowing you to savor a creamy, garlicky masterpiece in no time.

In this blog, we’ll show you how to make Olive Garden Chicken Scampi from scratch using simple ingredients that come together to create a dish that feels both special and easy to prepare.

Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for yourself or cooking for a group, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

What is Chicken Scampi?

Chicken Scampi is an Italian-American dish that typically features shrimp or chicken paired with a rich, buttery garlic sauce, served over a bed of pasta.

While scampi, traditionally a type of seafood, refers to sweet, succulent shrimp, many recipes, including Olive Garden’s popular version, use chicken as the main protein. The result is a comforting yet elegant dish that’s bursting with flavor.

In Olive Garden’s version, the dish starts with perfectly pan-seared chicken breasts, which are then combined with a flavorful garlic-butter sauce made with heavy cream, white wine, and parmesan cheese.

This creamy sauce envelops the chicken and pasta, creating a luscious, velvety texture. The dish is typically served with a side of linguine or spaghetti, making it the ultimate indulgence for anyone craving a rich, satisfying meal.

Chicken Scampi is the perfect balance of flavors—garlicky, buttery, and slightly tangy from the white wine—making it a favorite among diners. It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to customize with ingredients like shrimp or vegetables, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any dinner table.

Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a side salad or breadsticks, Chicken Scampi delivers the ultimate comfort food experience.

Ingredients for Olive Garden Chicken Scampi

To make this delicious and creamy Olive Garden Chicken Scampi at home, you’ll need a combination of fresh ingredients and pantry staples.

Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you start cooking:

For the Chicken and Shrimp:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – This will serve as the main protein for the dish.
• 1/2 lb shrimp (optional) – Small to medium-sized shrimp work best. You can skip the shrimp if you prefer a strictly chicken version.

For the Scampi Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Used to sear the chicken and sauté the garlic.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is the star of this sauce, giving it that rich, aromatic base.
• 1 cup heavy cream – This provides the rich, velvety texture for the sauce.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, savory depth of flavor to the sauce.
• 1/4 cup white wine – This helps deglaze the pan and adds a slight tang to balance the richness of the cream (you can substitute chicken broth if you prefer).
• 2 tablespoons butter – Enhances the richness of the sauce and adds a glossy finish.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz linguine or spaghetti – These pasta types work perfectly with this creamy, buttery sauce, allowing it to coat every strand.

For Garnishing:

• Fresh parsley, chopped – Adds a burst of color and a fresh, herby flavor.
• Extra Parmesan cheese – For additional sprinkling on top just before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Olive Garden Chicken Scampi

1. Preparing the Chicken and Shrimp

Start by preparing the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. If you’re including shrimp, peel and devein them, then season lightly with salt and pepper as well.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet.

Sear them for 5-7 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). After cooking, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside to rest.

In the same skillet, add the shrimp (if using) and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.

2. Making the Scampi Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste.

Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Next, add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese, continuing to cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you want a creamier texture, you can add a bit more cream or Parmesan.

3. Cooking the Pasta

While making the sauce, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook until al dente (usually about 9-11 minutes for linguine or spaghetti).

Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce later.

4. Combining the Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the scampi sauce, tossing to coat each strand thoroughly.

Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips and add them into the pan along with the shrimp (if using). Toss everything together, ensuring the chicken, shrimp, and pasta are all evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

5. Final Touches

Once everything is combined, give the dish one final toss to make sure it’s well mixed. Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation. If you like a little heat, you can also sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Serve immediately while it’s warm and creamy, and enjoy the comforting, restaurant-quality flavors of your homemade Olive Garden Chicken Scampi!

Tips for the Perfect Olive Garden Chicken Scampi

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

For the best flavor, opt for fresh garlic, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. Fresh garlic offers a stronger and more aromatic flavor than pre-minced or jarred varieties, while freshly grated Parmesan adds a creamier texture and more intense flavor to the sauce.

2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken

To ensure the chicken remains juicy and tender, cook it just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness. A good tip is to use a meat thermometer to monitor the temperature precisely.

3. Sear the Chicken Properly

Achieving a golden, crispy crust on the chicken is key to enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. Make sure your pan is hot before adding the chicken, and avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure a proper sear. This step adds a rich depth of flavor that complements the creamy sauce.

4. Control the Sauce Consistency

The sauce should be creamy and thick, but not too heavy. If the sauce seems too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little pasta water or more cream. On the other hand, if the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a little longer to thicken naturally.

5. Pasta Cooking Tip

Be sure to cook your pasta al dente (firm to the bite). Overcooked pasta can absorb too much sauce, causing it to become soggy. Reserving some pasta water can help adjust the sauce if needed, so keep a cup of it aside before draining the pasta.

6. Balance the Seasonings

Seasoning is crucial to elevate the flavors of this dish. Don’t skip seasoning each component—chicken, shrimp, and sauce—with salt and pepper to taste. A little sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice spicy kick, but it’s optional and should be used sparingly.

7. Add the Garnishes Last

Fresh parsley should be added at the very end for garnish, right before serving. This keeps its color vibrant and its flavor fresh. Extra grated Parmesan can also be added at this stage for extra richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Garlic

Garlic is an essential ingredient in scampi sauce, but it can turn bitter if overcooked. Be sure to sauté it just until fragrant (about 30 seconds) and avoid letting it brown too much. If you smell it burning, remove the pan from the heat immediately.

2. Underseasoning the Dish

Without proper seasoning, the rich flavors of the chicken, shrimp, and sauce can fall flat. Make sure to season each layer—chicken, shrimp, pasta, and sauce—with salt and pepper. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to ensure the dish is balanced and flavorful.

3. Using Pre-cooked Shrimp

If you’re using shrimp in your dish, avoid using pre-cooked shrimp. It can become rubbery and lack flavor when added to the sauce. Fresh shrimp that you cook in the pan will absorb the flavors of the sauce and result in a more flavorful dish.

4. Skipping the Deglazing Step

After cooking the chicken, it’s important to deglaze the pan with white wine (or chicken broth) to lift all the delicious brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. This step adds extra flavor to the sauce. Don’t skip it—those little bits make a big difference in taste.

5. Overcooking the Pasta

Overcooked pasta can absorb too much sauce and lose its perfect texture. Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, so it holds up well in the creamy sauce. Also, remember to reserve a little pasta water just in case the sauce needs to be thinned out.

6. Not Adjusting the Sauce Thickness

Sometimes, scampi sauce can either be too thin or too thick. If it’s too thick, don’t be afraid to add a little pasta water or extra cream to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken.

7. Rushing the Process

Take your time when cooking this dish to ensure every element is done perfectly. Rushing through the steps can result in overcooked chicken, a thin sauce, or undercooked pasta. Give yourself time to prepare each component carefully for the best results.

How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Scampi

Olive Garden Chicken Scampi is a rich, flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some ideas on how to serve it for the perfect meal:

1. Side Salad

A light, refreshing side salad can help balance the richness of the scampi. A simple mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette or Caesar dressing complements the creamy sauce and enhances the overall dining experience.

2. Breadsticks or Garlic Bread

No Italian meal is complete without some bread. Soft, buttery breadsticks (just like those at Olive Garden) or crispy garlic bread are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. You can easily serve them warm alongside the dish to complete the meal.

3. Roasted Vegetables

For a healthier option, serve the Chicken Scampi with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini. Their slight crunch and natural flavors provide a nice contrast to the creamy sauce and make the meal feel more well-rounded.

4. Wine Pairing

A crisp white wine like Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with Chicken Scampi. The acidity of these wines cuts through the richness of the sauce while complementing the garlic and creamy flavors of the dish.

5. Presentation Tips

When serving, you can garnish the dish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. For added flair, place the pasta in a shallow bowl or plate with the chicken and shrimp arranged on top. This makes for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Scampi

If you have leftovers of your Olive Garden Chicken Scampi, it’s easy to store and reheat, so you can enjoy it again.

Storing:

To store your Chicken Scampi, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container.

Make sure to keep the pasta and sauce together, as the pasta will absorb some of the sauce during storage. Refrigerate the leftovers for up to 2-3 days.

Reheating:

To reheat, you can use a few different methods to ensure the dish stays creamy and delicious:

• Stovetop: Place the leftovers in a skillet over low to medium heat. Add a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to help bring the sauce back to its original creamy texture. Stir occasionally and heat until the dish is warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion of the leftovers to a microwave-safe container. Cover loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap to avoid splattering. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, and adding a small amount of cream or milk if the sauce looks too thick.

Note: Avoid overheating the dish to prevent the chicken from drying out and the sauce from separating.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Olive Garden Chicken Scampi without shrimp?

Yes, absolutely! While the traditional Chicken Scampi includes shrimp, you can easily omit them and make a purely chicken-based dish. The creamy garlic butter sauce will still be delicious with just the chicken and pasta.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

While linguine and spaghetti are commonly used in this dish, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Fettuccine, penne, or even bowtie pasta will work great. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for 1-2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce on the stovetop, and cook the chicken and pasta fresh.

If the sauce thickens too much after being refrigerated, simply add a little milk or cream to bring it back to the desired consistency.

4. How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

To make the sauce thicker, simmer it a little longer or add more Parmesan cheese. To make it thinner, you can add a bit of pasta water or additional cream. Adjusting the sauce’s consistency is simple—just keep in mind the balance of flavors as you tweak it.

5. Can I freeze Chicken Scampi?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Chicken Scampi if needed. Store the dish in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1-2 months.

To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding extra cream or pasta water as needed to revive the sauce’s creamy texture.

Keep in mind that the pasta may become slightly softer after freezing, but the flavors will still be delicious.