Get ready to experience a dish that’s full of flavor and a little bit of spice. Chicken Scarpariello is an Italian-American classic that’s both comforting and exciting a hearty meal with tender chicken, spicy sausage, tangy peppers, and a rich, savory sauce. Trust me, the first bite will have you hooked, and the second will make you wonder why you didn’t make this sooner.

This dish is perfect for when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s bold, it’s flavorful, and it’s incredibly satisfying. Paired with a side of crusty bread to mop up that delicious sauce, Chicken Scarpariello is the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’re sitting at an Italian family feast, even if you’re just at home in your cozy kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Scarpariello

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a gathering with friends, or just craving something hearty for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit any occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: You can use different cuts of chicken (thighs, breasts, or drumsticks) depending on your preference. Plus, the flavors go well with rice, potatoes, or pasta.

Budget-Friendly: With simple, easy-to-find ingredients like chicken, sausage, and peppers, this dish is both affordable and delicious.

Quick and Easy: After a little prep, it’s a one-pan wonder that comes together in no time.

Customizable: If you’re not a fan of spicy sausage, swap it out for sweet Italian sausage, or make it extra fiery by adding more chili flakes or hot peppers.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit at your dinner table. It’s hearty, comforting, and full of bold flavors that everyone will love.

Ingredients in Chicken Scarpariello

This dish is packed with bold flavors, and the ingredients are simple but full of personality. Here’s the rundown:

Chicken (Thighs, Breasts, or Drumsticks): Your choice of cut, but bone-in chicken thighs are my personal favorite for their rich, juicy flavor.

Italian Sausage (Spicy or Sweet): The sausage adds a smoky, savory kick, and the spicy variety gives the dish just the right amount of heat.

Bell Peppers (Red, Green, or Yellow): A colorful addition that adds both sweetness and crunch.

Garlic: The aromatic base that makes everything smell irresistible.

Olives: They bring a salty, briny bite that complements the richness of the chicken and sausage.

White Wine: Adds depth to the sauce and helps deglaze the pan to get all those flavorful bits off the bottom.

Chicken Broth: The base of the sauce, making it savory and luscious.

Fresh Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, and/or Parsley): They infuse the dish with fresh, earthy flavors.

Red Pepper Flakes: For a little extra heat. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance!

Olive Oil: To sear the chicken and sausage to perfection.

Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the chicken and bringing everything together.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment

Start by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. We’ll need it nice and hot to sear the chicken and sausage to perfection.

Brown the Chicken and Sausage

Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add olive oil to the pan and brown the chicken on all sides until it’s golden and crispy about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same pan, add the sausage and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside with the chicken.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in the bell peppers and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the peppers start to soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.

Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the white wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This is where all that flavor is hiding!

Build the Sauce

Add the chicken broth, olives, red pepper flakes, and fresh herbs. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.

Return the Chicken and Sausage to the Pan

Add the chicken and sausage back to the pan, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and simmer for about 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender.

Finishing Touches

Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the chicken and sausage over rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra herbs if you like.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 500
(Note: values may vary based on the specific cuts of chicken and type of sausage used)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

How to Serve Chicken Scarpariello

This dish is perfect when paired with a variety of sides. Try it with mashed potatoes, risotto, or a side salad with a tangy vinaigrette. And, of course, serve it with crusty bread to mop up that rich, flavorful sauce. For a heartier meal, serve over pasta or rice for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it reduce a little longer, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken it.
– For extra flavor, try using bone-in chicken thighs they’re juicier and more flavorful.
– You can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it; the flavors only get better as it sits.
– Add some roasted potatoes on the side for an extra comforting touch.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken will work, but be sure to adjust the cooking time since it cooks faster than bone-in pieces.

2. Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! Add more red pepper flakes or swap in some fresh hot peppers for an extra kick.

3. Can I use sweet sausage instead of spicy?
Definitely! If you prefer a milder flavor, sweet Italian sausage works just as well.

4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you serve it with gluten-free sides.

5. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

6. What can I serve with Chicken Scarpariello?
Pair it with a light salad, crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

7. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
You can, but chicken breasts tend to dry out more easily. If you use breasts, make sure not to overcook them.

8. Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! Mushrooms, onions, or zucchini would all be great additions.

9. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

10. Is this a spicy dish?
It has a mild heat from the red pepper flakes, but you can control the spice level by adjusting the amount you use.

Conclusion

Chicken Scarpariello is a bold, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is guaranteed to wow. With its tender chicken, savory sausage, and rich sauce, it’s a meal that’s sure to become a favorite. So grab your pan, get cooking, and let the flavors of Italy come to life in your kitchen!

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