Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Recipe
Olive Garden Chicken Scampi is a creamy, garlicky pasta dish featuring tender chicken, succulent shrimp (optional), and a luscious sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and white wine. This dish is rich, comforting, and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Paired with linguine or spaghetti, this Chicken Scampi recipe brings the flavors of the beloved Olive Garden restaurant to your own home.
Equipment
- Large skillet (1)
- Large Pot for Pasta (1)
- Tongs or Pasta Fork (1)
- Meat Thermometer (1 - optional)
- Wooden spoon (1)
- Measuring Cups (2)
- Measuring Spoons (1)
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 lb shrimp optional
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Extra Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Chicken and Shrimp
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the hot skillet.
- Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
Make the Scampi Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits from the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Pasta
- While making the sauce, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes for linguine or spaghetti.
- Drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
Combine the Ingredients
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat well.
- Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips and add them to the pasta along with the shrimp. Toss everything together until evenly mixed.
Serve and Garnish
- Serve the Chicken Scampi immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese.
- Optionally, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a little extra spice.
Notes
- Chicken Substitution: You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or even make a vegetarian version using vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
- Pasta Choices: While linguine is traditional, feel free to use other pasta shapes like fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne.
- Creamy Texture: For a richer sauce, add a little extra Parmesan cheese or heavy cream. If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with reserved pasta water.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency.