As I stirred the pot, the aroma of sizzling garlic and vibrant bell peppers filled my kitchen, whisking me away to a cozy Italian-American trattoria. Today, I’m excited to share my Best Chicken Scarpariello Recipe, a dish that effortlessly transforms a simple weeknight meal into something extraordinary. This comforting recipe highlights tender chicken thighs and zesty hot cherry peppers, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that warms both body and soul. Not only is it quick to whip up, taking just 45 minutes, but it also offers an inviting charm perfect for gathering around the table with loved ones. Are you ready to turn your kitchen into a delicious Italian escape? Let’s dive in!
Why Is Chicken Scarpariello a Must-Try?
Comforting Flavors: This Chicken Scarpariello brings the warmth of Italian-American cuisine right to your table, making every bite feel like a hug.
Quick and Easy: With just 45 minutes of prep, this dish transforms into a delicious weeknight solution that even busy chefs can appreciate.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your choice of sausage or bell peppers, ensuring you can tailor it to your taste!
Crowd-Pleaser: The aromatic blend of garlic and spices will impress family and friends, perfect for special occasions or casual dinners.
Hearty and Satisfying: Enjoy tender chicken simmered in a zesty sauce, offering comfort food at its finest, reminiscent of a cherished family recipe.
If you love the idea of flavorful, easy meals, check out my Grilled Chicken Sandwich for more inspiration!
Chicken Scarpariello Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – A rich, juicy base that becomes tender and flavorful as it simmers.
• Italian Sausage – Adds savory depth and a classic Scarpariello richness; use sweet or spicy sausage based on your heat preference.
For the Vegetables
• Bell Peppers – Bring sweetness and color to the dish; any color can be used, but green peppers provide a slightly earthier flavor.
• Hot Cherry Peppers – Introduce tangy heat that defines the Scarpariello flavor; adjust quantity for desired spice level.
For the Aromatics
• Garlic – Infuses the sauce with warmth and aroma; fresh garlic is preferred for the best flavor.
• Oregano – Adds earthy, classic Italian depth; dried thyme or basil can be used as alternatives.
For the Sauce
• White Wine – Lifts the flavors and helps build a bright, balanced sauce; dry vermouth can work if wine isn’t available.
• Chicken Broth – Forms the savory base that ties the dish together; homemade broth adds depth but store-bought works as well.
• Vinegar from Cherry Peppers – Sharpens the dish with a signature zesty kick; essential for the authentic Chicken Scarpariello flavor, so don’t omit it.
• Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and freshness at the end; fresh lemon is recommended for optimal flavor.
For Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper – Enhances every flavor in the skillet; adjust amounts to taste.
Feel free to gather these ingredients and amp up your cooking experience with this delicious Chicken Scarpariello! The rich tapestry of flavors awaits you in every bite.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Scarpariello
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the seasoning while you gather your other ingredients. This initial step ensures that every bite of your Chicken Scarpariello is well-seasoned and delicious.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs, cooking them until they are golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side. Once nicely seared, remove them from the skillet and set aside to retain their juices while preparing the rest of the dish.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage
In the same skillet, add the sliced Italian sausage over medium heat. Sauté for approximately 4-5 minutes until browned and crispy, stirring occasionally to get an even cook. The flavorful drippings will add depth to your Chicken Scarpariello sauce, making it even more irresistible.
Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Peppers
With the sausage removed, add minced garlic and sliced bell peppers to the skillet, stirring them together for 2-3 minutes. Watch for the garlic to become fragrant and the peppers to soften slightly, creating a vibrant medley. Then, toss in the hot cherry peppers, ensuring the dynamic flavors blend together beautifully.
Step 5: Deglaze & Simmer
Pour in ½ cup of white wine to deglaze the pan, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, reducing the wine by half. This step enhances the flavors, creating a rich foundation for your Chicken Scarpariello sauce.
Step 6: Create the Sauce
Add the chicken broth, vinegar from the cherry peppers, lemon juice, and oregano to the skillet. Stir well, blending all the ingredients harmoniously. Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them among the vibrant peppers and sauce so they can absorb all those delicious flavors.
Step 7: Finish Cooking
Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Allow the Chicken Scarpariello to simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (165°F/75°C). The sauce will thicken slightly, creating a wonderfully comforting dish that promises to warm your heart and home.
Step 8: Serve
Once the chicken is ready, plate it up, spooning the extra sauce and peppers over the top for a delightful presentation. The vibrant colors and rich aromas of your Chicken Scarpariello will make for an inviting dish that your family or guests will love, perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions.
Tips for the Best Chicken Scarpariello
• Choose Quality Chicken: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the best flavor and tenderness. They will infuse the dish with richness as they cook.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When searing the chicken or cooking the sausage, ensure enough space in the pan to achieve a good browning. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead.
• Balance the Spice: Adjust the number of hot cherry peppers according to your taste preference. Start with a small quantity and add more if you crave extra heat in your Chicken Scarpariello.
• Simmer Gently: Cook on low heat during the simmering stage. This allows the chicken to become tender without drying out, ensuring a juicy result.
• Let it Rest: Allow the Chicken Scarpariello to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This will help the flavors meld beautifully before serving.
• Best When Made Ahead: Prepare the dish a day in advance for the flavors to deepen overnight, making it an even more comforting meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Scarpariello are ideal for busy home cooks looking for time-saving solutions! You can season the chicken thighs and even sear them up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to develop rich flavor. Additionally, chop the bell peppers, garlic, and hot cherry peppers ahead, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When it’s time to enjoy, simply reheat the skillet, add the prepped ingredients, deglaze with wine, and mix in the remaining components. Remember, letting the dish sit for a few minutes before serving enhances the flavors, ensuring your Chicken Scarpariello is just as delicious as when freshly made. Enjoy the ease of meal planning with this comforting recipe!
Chicken Scarpariello Variations & Substitutions
Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen by customizing this delightful dish with these fun variations.
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Dairy-Free: Swap any butter or creamy sauces with olive oil or coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free experience.
A simple change can revitalize the flavors without compromising texture! -
Sausage Alternative: Try chicken or turkey sausage instead of traditional Italian sausage for a leaner option.
It still delivers delicious depth but keeps it on the lighter side! -
Veggie Delight: Add sliced mushrooms or zucchini to the mix for extra flavor and texture that complements the peppers beautifully.
This twist adds earthiness and makes the dish even more colorful! -
Additional Heat: Toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a few more hot cherry peppers if you like it spicy.
Spice lovers will appreciate how easy it is to dial up the heat in this dish! -
Pasta Pairing: Serve the Chicken Scarpariello over a bed of al dente spaghetti or fettuccine for a comforting, hearty meal.
This makes it a truly complete dish that will leave everyone satisfied and happy! -
Citrus Twist: Experiment with lime juice instead of lemon for a fresh, zesty spark that adds a unique flavor profile.
Sometimes, a little twist can create a whole new experience worth savoring. -
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle peppers to infuse a delightful smokiness into the sauce.
This variation adds an exciting depth that makes it taste like summer nights around the grill! -
Hearty Grain Base: Serve it on a bed of quinoa or farro to incorporate whole grains while enhancing the dish’s nutritional value.
This way, you stay full and satisfied, enjoying every mouthful of deliciousness!
Feel inspired? Take a look at my Stuffed Chicken Roulade for another delightful way to enjoy chicken, or try the Bbq Chicken Roasted Sweet Potato Bowls for a comforting meal with a twist!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Scarpariello
Fridge: Keep leftover Chicken Scarpariello in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain its flavors and textures for quick meals!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Chicken Scarpariello in a sealed freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to restore the sauce’s consistency for delicious flavors.
Airtight Tip: Always use airtight containers for storing to avoid freezer burn and maintain the hearty taste of your Chicken Scarpariello.
What to Serve with Chicken Scarpariello?
As you savor the vibrant flavors of this Italian classic, consider complementing your meal with a variety of delightful sides and pairings.
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Creamy Polenta: This smooth, buttery dish provides a perfect canvas for soaking up the rich sauce from the Chicken Scarpariello.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy and fragrant, a loaf of garlic bread is the ultimate companion to scoop up every last bit of the zesty sauce.
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Roasted Vegetables: Incorporate a colorful medley of seasonal veggies like zucchini, carrots, or asparagus for a lovely roasted side.
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Italian Salad: A fresh green salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing balance to the hearty chicken.
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Pasta Aglio e Olio: This simple spaghetti dish with garlic and olive oil pairs harmoniously with the robust flavors of Chicken Scarpariello.
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Red Wine: A glass of Sangiovese or Chianti complements the dish beautifully, enhancing its Italian roots while making you feel like you’re dining in a trattoria.
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Tiramisu: For dessert, indulge in this coffee-flavored classic that offers a sweet finish after the savory main course.
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Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing palate cleanser, lemon sorbet brightens up the meal and echoes the citrusy notes in the Chicken Scarpariello itself.
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Focaccia: This fluffy, herb-infused bread is perfect for dipping into the extra sauce and rounds out your Italian dining experience beautifully.
Chicken Scarpariello Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken thighs for Chicken Scarpariello?
Absolutely! Look for chicken thighs that are plump and have a nice amount of marbling, as this will ensure they’re juicy and tender once cooked. Bone-in, skin-on thighs add the most flavor, while boneless can be a quicker cooking alternative if you’re in a hurry.
How should I store leftover Chicken Scarpariello?
For fridge storage, keep your Chicken Scarpariello in an airtight container, and it will last up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled down to room temperature before sealing it up, as this will help maintain its delicious flavors and prevent moisture build-up.
Can I freeze Chicken Scarpariello?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow your Chicken Scarpariello to cool completely, and then portion it into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little broth to keep the sauce nice and flavorful.
What if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly in the skillet?
Very! If you notice that your chicken isn’t cooking evenly, it could be that the skillet is overcrowded, preventing proper heat circulation. Always leave enough space around the chicken while searing. If it continues to happen, adjusting the heat to medium-low can help cook it more evenly without burning the outside.
Is Chicken Scarpariello suitable for those with food allergies?
It’s important to be cautious! If you’re preparing this dish for someone with food allergies, opt for gluten-free chicken broth and ensure your sausage is free from allergens. Additionally, the hot cherry peppers add spice; if someone is sensitive, you might want to reduce the amount or substitute with milder peppers. Always check labels for hidden allergens!
Can I make Chicken Scarpariello in advance?
Yes, you can! In fact, this dish gets even better after a day in the fridge as the flavors meld beautifully. Prepare it ahead of time, store it in an airtight container, and simply reheat it before serving. For maximum flavor, I often recommend making it a day ahead for that authentic, comforting taste!
Delicious Chicken Scarpariello: A Comforting Weeknight Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Let sit for about 10 minutes.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Add the chicken thighs and cook until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, add sliced Italian sausage and sauté for approximately 4-5 minutes until browned.
- Add minced garlic and sliced bell peppers, stirring for 2-3 minutes until garlic is fragrant.
- Pour in white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up brown bits. Allow to simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Add chicken broth, vinegar from cherry peppers, lemon juice, and oregano. Stir well, return chicken to the skillet.
- Cover and reduce heat to low, simmer for about 20 minutes until chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Plate the chicken, spooning the sauce and peppers over the top before serving.