There’s nothing like the warm embrace of a hearty meal after a long day, and this Best Chicken Scarpariello Recipe in 45 Minutes is just the ticket. Picture this: tender chicken thighs simmering in a rich, savory sauce, accompanied by vibrant peppers and a hint of zesty lemon. The harmony of flavors will have your family gathering around the dinner table, drawn in by the mouthwatering aroma wafting through your home.
I discovered this delightful dish during a Sunday dinner with friends, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. The beautiful thing about Chicken Scarpariello is its wonderful versatility. Whether you’re whipping up a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this recipe is both straightforward and crowd-pleasing. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rustic Italian-American comfort food masterpiece that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that’s as satisfying to eat as it is quick to make? Let’s dive into the recipe and bring some Italian flair to your table!
Why is this the Best Chicken Scarpariello Recipe?
Flavorful Combination: The marriage of juicy chicken thighs, savory sausage, and vibrant peppers creates an irresistible flavor explosion.
Quick Prep: Ready in just 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
Simple Ingredients: You’ll only need pantry staples, making it budget-friendly and accessible.
Impressive Presentation: Bright colors and rich sauce will wow your guests and family alike.
Versatile Dish: Easily adapt to your preferences with ingredient swaps for a personal touch.
Ready to try an amazing comfort food dish? This Chicken Scarpariello truly embodies rustic Italian-American cuisine!
Best Chicken Scarpariello Ingredients
- For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Juicy and tender, bone-in thighs add rich flavor as they simmer in the sauce.
• Italian Sausage – Offers savory depth; slice it for even cooking and a delightful texture. - For the Vegetables
• Bell Peppers – Use a mix of colors for sweetness and vibrant presentation in your dish.
• Hot Cherry Peppers – These add a tangy heat; adjust the quantity to suit your taste buds.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic provides a warm, aromatic base for the sauce. - For the Sauce
• White Wine – A splash of dry wine elevates the flavors; Pinot Grigio is a great choice.
• Chicken Broth – This savory stock ties everything together, making the dish hearty and comforting.
• Vinegar from Cherry Peppers – Adds a signature zesty kick; adjust to your desired acidity.
• Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed lemon juice balances the dish with a bright flavor.
• Oregano – A staple in Italian cuisine, it brings earthy notes; can be substituted with Italian seasoning. - For Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing the flavors; season according to your palate.
This Best Chicken Scarpariello Recipe in 45 Minutes is all about creating cozy comfort food with simple yet impactful ingredients, inviting everyone to gather around the table!
How to Make Chicken Scarpariello
- Season chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavors as they cook.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for about 5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook sliced Italian sausage in the same skillet for about 4-5 minutes until browned. This adds a rich flavor to the dish.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t burn.
- Stir in the sliced bell peppers and hot cherry peppers, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and vibrant.
- Deglaze the skillet by pouring in the white wine. Scrape any browned bits off the bottom, and let it simmer until reduced by half, about 3 minutes.
- Combine chicken broth, vinegar from the cherry peppers, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and oregano. Stir until mixed well.
- Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, lower the heat, cover, and simmer for about 25 minutes until the chicken is tender and flavors meld together.
- Thicken the sauce by removing the lid for the last 5 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. Spoon extra sauce and peppers over the chicken before serving.
Optional: Serve with crusty Italian bread for a delightful meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Scarpariello preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can season the chicken thighs and prepare the sausage, garlic, and vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Store the chicken and prepped ingredients separately in the refrigerator, ensuring freshness and preventing the chicken from becoming overly salty. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the instruction steps starting from adding the sausage to the skillet and continue with the recipe. This make-ahead approach allows the flavors to meld beautifully and results in just as delicious Chicken Scarpariello that feels like a warm hug on a plate!
What to Serve with Chicken Scarpariello?
There’s nothing quite like the joy of creating a complete meal that tantalizes the senses and brings everyone together.
- Crusty Italian Bread: Perfect for soaking up that luscious saucy goodness, this bread adds a delightful texture contrast to the dish.
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables: The earthy flavors and crispy edges of roasted vegetables provide a fresh balance to the hearty Scarpariello.
- Creamy Polenta: Smooth and rich, polenta serves as an excellent base, making each bite a creamy delight alongside the savory chicken.
- Simple Arugula Salad: A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette brings brightness to the meal, cutting through the rich flavors beautifully.
- White Wine (Pinot Grigio): A chilled glass of this dry white wine complements the dish, enhancing the vibrant flavors and adding sophistication.
- Lemon Basil Risotto: Creamy and aromatic, this risotto incorporates lemon zest to echo the Scarpariello’s zestiness, tying the meal together.
- Tiramisu for Dessert: End your dinner on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert, light yet indulgent, perfect for a cozy family gathering.
Chicken Scarpariello Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!
- Lean Option: Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a lighter take without sacrificing flavor.
- Vegetable Boost: Add root vegetables like potatoes or carrots to the sauté for extra heartiness and a comforting texture.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken and sausage with a medley of hearty vegetables and legumes, such as chickpeas, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
- Spice Level: Experiment by using sweet cherry peppers instead of hot ones for a milder dish, perfect for little ones or spice-sensitive guests.
- Herb Infusion: Mix up the herbs by adding fresh basil or parsley just before serving for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
- Savory Twist: Incorporate chopped mushrooms into the sauté for an earthy depth that complements the other flavors beautifully.
- Creamy Addition: For a richer sauce, swirl in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving. It will create a luscious, dreamy consistency.
- Wine Swap: Use Marsala or Chianti instead of white wine for a deeper, more complex flavor profile that adds a touch of richness to the dish.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Scarpariello
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Freezer: This Best Chicken Scarpariello Recipe freezes well for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat slowly on the stovetop to preserve the flavors and texture.
Meal Prep: Consider making a double batch for easy weeknight dinners! The flavors often deepen, making it even better the next day.
Expert Tips for Best Chicken Scarpariello
- Juicy Chicken: For the best flavor and tenderness, use bone-in chicken thighs rather than boneless. They’ll simmer beautifully in the sauce.
- Spice Control: Adjust the number of hot cherry peppers to calibrate the heat to your family’s taste; this way, everyone can enjoy this cozy dish without overwhelming spice.
- Make-Ahead Flavor: Consider preparing this Chicken Scarpariello a day in advance. The flavors develop further as they meld overnight, creating an even richer taste.
- Gentle Reheating: When reheating, do so gently over low heat to keep the chicken from drying out, ensuring your meal stays delicious and comforting.
- Add Variety: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, like zucchini or mushrooms. This flexibility ensures you always have the best Chicken Scarpariello recipe tailored to your preferences.
Chicken Scarpariello Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs as they provide rich flavor and remain juicy during cooking. Opt for ones that are plump and have a bright color. Avoid any with dark spots or a dull appearance, which may indicate spoilage.
What is the best way to store leftover Chicken Scarpariello?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, do this gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture. This way, your Chicken Scarpariello will stay delicious and comforting!
Can I freeze Chicken Scarpariello, and how should I do it?
Yes! This Best Chicken Scarpariello Recipe freezes wonderfully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as the dish may expand when frozen. It will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly on the stovetop.
How do I troubleshoot if my Chicken Scarpariello turns out too spicy?
If your dish ends up spicier than expected, don’t fret! To temper the heat, add a small amount of honey or brown sugar to balance the flavors. Alternatively, you can incorporate a dairy element, like sour cream or yogurt, as they can help to tone down the spiciness.
Can I adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions, such as gluten intolerance?
Very! To make this dish gluten-free, simply ensure that the chicken broth and white wine are labeled gluten-free. You can also serve it with rice or gluten-free pasta instead of traditional pasta or bread. It’s great to adapt recipes to suit everyone’s needs!
Is it safe to feed my pet some Chicken Scarpariello?
While a little bit of plain, cooked chicken or bell pepper might be okay for pets, avoid giving them any dish that contains garlic, onion, or spicy elements, which can be harmful to them. Always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure about new foods for your furry friends!
Best Chicken Scarpariello Recipe in 45 Mins for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for about 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Cook sliced Italian sausage in the same skillet for about 4-5 minutes until browned.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in sliced bell peppers and hot cherry peppers, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Deglaze the skillet with white wine, scraping the bottom and letting it simmer until reduced by half.
- Combine chicken broth, vinegar from cherry peppers, lemon juice, and oregano. Stir until mixed well.
- Return chicken thighs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for about 25 minutes.
- Remove lid for the last 5 minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Serve with extra sauce and peppers over the chicken.
