Ah, chicken scarpariello! This dish is like a warm hug from your Italian-American grandma! It’s a beautiful medley of chicken, savory sausage, and vibrant peppers all simmered together in a luscious sauce that’s just bursting with flavor. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma wafting through my kitchen was simply irresistible! It felt like a cozy night around the family table, sharing stories and laughter while enjoying something so hearty and comforting.
What I love most about chicken scarpariello is its rich, robust flavors that come from just a handful of ingredients. The combination of tender chicken, spicy sausage, and sweet bell peppers creates a harmony that warms your soul with every bite. Plus, it’s easy to whip up on a weeknight or serve to guests for a special occasion. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. So let’s get cooking and bring a little taste of Italy right into your home!
Ingredients
Alright, let’s gather everything we need to make this scrumptious chicken scarpariello! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor)
- 2 chicken breasts (skinless, boneless is perfect)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (I love using sweet or mild, but spicy works great too!)
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (red, yellow, or green – pick your favorite!)
- 1 onion, chopped (a medium one will do just fine)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (the more, the merrier, right?)
- 1 cup chicken broth (homemade if you have it, but store-bought works too)
- 1/2 cup white wine (I usually go for a dry variety; it adds such depth!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for that lovely sautéing magic)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust based on how spicy you like it!)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy; flavor is key!)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (a sprinkle of green is always a nice touch)
And there you have it! These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also so satisfying. Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking, as it makes the process much smoother. Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Chicken Scarpariello Recipe
Now, let’s get to the fun part! This process is simple and straightforward, and before you know it, you’ll have a delicious chicken scarpariello bubbling away on your stove. Ready? Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
First things first, grab your trusty large skillet and heat up those 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough that it shimmers but not smoking—somewhere around 350°F (175°C) is perfect. This is where all the magic begins!
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Once the oil is ready, season your chicken thighs and breasts generously with salt and pepper. Now, place them skin-side down in the skillet. Let them sizzle away for about 5-7 minutes until they’re golden brown. Flip them over and let the other side brown for another 5 minutes. This step is crucial for building flavor, so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Cook the Sausage
After the chicken is beautifully browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Now, toss in your Italian sausage (cut into bite-sized pieces) and cook it for about 5-6 minutes until it’s nicely browned. Oh, the aroma at this point is just heavenly! This will add that rich depth to our dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables
With the sausage done, it’s time to make room for the veggies! Remove the sausage from the skillet and add the chopped onion and sliced bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. You want them to start getting a little color, which adds a lovely sweetness.
Step 5: Add Flavor with Garlic and Spices
Now, let’s kick it up a notch! Add the minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the pan, cooking for just 1 minute. You’ll instantly smell those flavors mingling. Be careful though—garlic can burn quickly, and we want it to be fragrant, not bitter!
Step 6: Deglaze and Combine
Pour in that luscious 1/2 cup of white wine and 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Those bits are packed with flavor! Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 7: Final Cooking
Now it’s time to bring everything back together. Return the browned chicken and sausage to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This is when all those flavors meld beautifully, and the chicken becomes tender and juicy. Yum!
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
After 30 minutes, remove the lid and take a moment to admire your work! Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that pop of color and freshness. Serve this delightful chicken scarpariello hot, and don’t forget to have some crusty bread on the side for dipping into that incredible sauce!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed in this hearty chicken scarpariello! Each serving is not only satisfying but also brings a balance of protein and flavor. Here’s what you can expect:
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 36g
Pretty amazing, right? This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and sausage, making it a fantastic option for a filling meal. Plus, with the veggies in there, you get a little fiber too! It’s comfort food that doesn’t skimp on nutrition. Enjoy every delicious bite without guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you, there are so many reasons to fall head over heels for this chicken scarpariello recipe! First off, it’s incredibly quick to prepare. With just a little chopping and about 55 minutes of cooking, you can have a meal on the table that feels like it took hours to create. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want to impress!
Then there’s the flavor—oh my goodness! The combination of juicy chicken, savory sausage, and tender peppers simmered in that rich, zesty sauce is just pure magic. Each bite is an explosion of taste that warms you right down to your toes. Seriously, the aromas wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathering around, eagerly awaiting what’s cooking!
Plus, it’s the ultimate comfort food. There’s something so satisfying about sitting down to a bowl of this hearty dish, especially on a chilly evening. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got yourself a cozy meal that feels like home. Trust me, once you serve this up, you’ll have family and friends begging for seconds!
And let’s not forget how versatile it is! You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. This recipe is truly a keeper that you can make your own. I promise, once you try it, it’ll become a regular on your dinner rotation!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s ensure your chicken scarpariello turns out absolutely perfect! I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that will help you navigate any potential pitfalls and elevate your dish to the next level. Ready? Here we go!
- Don’t Rush the Browning: This step is crucial for flavor! Make sure the chicken and sausage get a nice golden brown before moving on. It’ll add depth and richness to your sauce.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and vibrant veggies make all the difference in flavor. If you can, go for the freshest produce you can find—it really enhances the dish!
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat or have little ones at the table, start with half the amount of red pepper flakes. You can always add more later if you want that extra kick!
- Scrape the Pan: When deglazing, make sure to scrape up those brown bits! They’re bursting with flavor and will make your sauce even more delicious.
- Let It Simmer: Patience is key! Allowing the dish to simmer for that full 30 minutes helps all the flavors meld beautifully. The chicken will be tender and infused with that savory goodness.
- Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brightens up the dish. Don’t skip this step—it makes a lovely presentation!
- Serve with Love: Finally, don’t forget to serve this dish with some crusty bread for dipping! It’s the perfect way to soak up all that amazing sauce. Your guests will thank you!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making a chicken scarpariello that’s not just good, but truly unforgettable. Happy cooking, and enjoy every flavorful bite!
Variations of Chicken Scarpariello Recipe
One of the best things about chicken scarpariello is its flexibility! You can easily adapt this dish to fit your taste preferences or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Vegetable Medley: Switch up the veggies! Feel free to add zucchini, mushrooms, or even carrots for a colorful twist. They’ll cook down beautifully and add extra flavor.
- Spicy Kick: If you really love heat, toss in some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce along with the red pepper flakes. It’ll give your dish a fiery depth that’s oh-so-satisfying!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs! Adding a few sprigs of thyme or rosemary while the dish simmers can elevate the flavor to a whole new level. Just remember to remove them before serving!
- Different Meats: Want to mix things up? You can use bone-in pork chops or even turkey thighs instead of chicken! They’ll bring their unique flavors to the dish, making it just as delightful.
- Wine Alternatives: If you don’t have white wine on hand, try using chicken broth with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for acidity. It’ll still give you that nice tang without losing the essence of the dish.
- Cheesy Delight: For a creamy twist, stir in some grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese right before serving. It’ll make the sauce extra rich and indulgent—who can resist that?
- Crockpot Version: Want to let it cook itself? You can easily prepare this dish in a slow cooker. Just brown the meat first, then add everything to the slow cooker and let it work its magic for about 4-6 hours on low!
These variations not only keep things interesting but also allow you to customize your chicken scarpariello to match your mood or the season. So get creative, and don’t hesitate to put your own spin on this classic dish. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a big batch of that heavenly chicken scarpariello, and you’re wondering how to keep those delicious leftovers? No problem! Storing this dish is super easy, and I’m here to guide you through it.
First off, let the chicken scarpariello cool down to room temperature before storing it. Once it’s cooled, transfer it into an airtight container. This will keep all those flavors sealed in and prevent any unwanted moisture. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. I always label my containers with the date, just to keep track—you know, so those leftovers don’t become a mystery in the back of the fridge!
If you want to keep it for longer, you can definitely freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. It should last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Now, when it comes time to reheat, you have a couple of options. The stovetop is my favorite method because it warms everything evenly and keeps the chicken nice and juicy. Just add the chicken scarpariello to a skillet over medium heat, and stir occasionally until it’s heated through. If it looks a little dry, feel free to splash in a bit of chicken broth or water to bring back that saucy goodness!
If you prefer using the microwave, that works too! Just pop it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap (to avoid splatters), and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warmed to your liking. Just keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your chicken scarpariello all over again, savoring those flavors just as much as the first time around. Happy feasting!
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Chicken Scarpariello Recipe: 8 Hearty Comforts Await
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A classic Italian-American dish featuring chicken, sausage, and peppers in a savory sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, then brown in the skillet.
- Add sausage and cook until browned.
- Remove meat from skillet and set aside.
- Add onions and peppers to the skillet, cooking until softened.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute.
- Pour in white wine and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet.
- Return chicken and sausage to the skillet.
- Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
- Feel free to use other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: chicken scarpariello recipe











