Chicken scampi creamy garlic has become my absolute go-to for a quick weeknight dinner that feels incredibly luxurious. I remember the first time I tried making it, I was a little intimidated by the “scampi” part, wondering what is chicken scampi creamy garlic, but it turns out it’s surprisingly simple and oh-so-satisfying. The aroma of garlic sizzling in butter, the rich cream sauce coating tender chicken and pasta – it’s pure comfort food. This easy creamy chicken scampi recipe delivers all those amazing flavors without any fuss. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this restaurant-worthy dish! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken Scampi

This creamy garlic chicken scampi is a weeknight dream come true. Here’s why you’ll be making it again and again:

• Unbeatable Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and cream creates a rich, savory sauce that’s simply irresistible. It’s the ultimate comfort food!
• Lightning Fast: With a prep time of just 15 minutes and only 20 minutes of cooking, you can have this delicious meal on the table in under 40 minutes.
• Surprisingly Healthy: While rich, this dish offers lean protein from the chicken and can be balanced with a side salad.
• Budget-Friendly: Using common pantry staples and affordable chicken breasts makes this a meal that won’t break the bank.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will adore the creamy texture and mild garlic flavor of this chicken scampi with cream sauce.
• Versatile: This garlic butter chicken scampi recipe is perfect for a casual dinner or can be dressed up for guests.
• Satisfying: It’s a hearty and filling meal that leaves you feeling completely content.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken Scampi

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making an incredible chicken scampi with cream sauce. The magic truly lies in the quality of each component coming together. I’ve found that using fresh ingredients makes a noticeable difference in the final dish!

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces – This lean protein is the star and cooks quickly.
• 8 oz linguine – Or your favorite pasta shape; linguine holds the sauce beautifully.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – The base for our rich sauce, adding essential flavor and silkiness.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Don’t skimp on the garlic; it’s crucial for that signature scampi taste!
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth – This deglazes the pan, adding depth. Wine offers a subtle tang, while broth keeps it alcohol-free.
• 1 cup heavy cream – This is what makes our chicken scampi truly creamy and decadent.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For that salty, umami kick and to help thicken the sauce.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley – Adds a burst of freshness and a lovely green color to finish.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – A little acidity brightens all the rich flavors, cutting through the creaminess.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out all the individual flavors.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Scampi

Let’s dive into how to make this incredible creamy chicken scampi. It’s a straightforward process that yields restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen. The aroma alone will have everyone gathering in the kitchen, eagerly awaiting this delicious meal.

1. Step 1: Get your oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, cook your linguine according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. Drain it well, but be sure to save about a cup of that starchy pasta water – it’s liquid gold for our sauce!
2. Step 2: Pat your chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step is crucial for building flavor from the start.
3. Step 3: Melt the 4 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they are beautifully browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Step 4: Lower the heat slightly to medium. Add the 4 cloves minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes wonderfully fragrant – be careful not to burn it, or it will turn bitter!
5. Step 5: Pour in the 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let this simmer and reduce for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol (if using wine) to cook off and the flavors to concentrate.
6. Step 6: Stir in the 1 cup heavy cream. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, and let it cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes. You’ll see it start to thicken into a luxurious, creamy consistency. This is where the magic happens in how to make creamy chicken scampi!
7. Step 7: Add the 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the simmering sauce. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and lusciously thick. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
8. Step 8: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet. Add the drained linguine to the sauce. Toss everything together gently until the pasta and chicken are completely coated in the glorious creamy garlic sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
9. Step 9: Stir in the 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley and the 1 tablespoon lemon juice. The fresh parsley adds a pop of color and herbaceousness, while the lemon juice brightens everything up beautifully.
10. Step 10: Serve your amazing creamy garlic chicken pasta scampi immediately. It’s best enjoyed fresh and hot!

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Scampi with Cream Sauce

Elevating your chicken scampi with cream sauce is all about a few simple tricks I’ve picked up. These tips ensure your dish is restaurant-quality every single time!

• Always pat your chicken completely dry before searing. This is key to getting a beautiful golden-brown crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
• Fresh garlic is non-negotiable for that authentic scampi flavor. Pre-minced garlic in a jar just doesn’t have the same punch.
• Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process, especially after adding the Parmesan cheese.

What’s the secret to perfect creamy garlic chicken scampi?

The real secret to the best creamy garlic chicken scampi is creating a flavorful pan sauce by deglazing with wine or broth and then letting the heavy cream simmer and reduce to a luscious consistency. Don’t rush this step!

Can I make chicken scampi with heavy cream ahead of time?

You can prep most of the components ahead! Cook the chicken and make the sauce separately, then store them in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta just before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with garlic butter chicken scampi?

A common pitfall is burning the garlic – cook it gently until fragrant, not brown. Also, avoid overcooking the chicken; it should be just cooked through before being added back to the sauce, ensuring tender bites in your garlic butter chicken scampi.

Best Ways to Serve Easy Creamy Chicken Scampi

This easy creamy chicken scampi is so versatile, it’s perfect for any occasion! While it’s fantastic on its own, I love serving it with a few complementary sides to round out the meal. For a truly authentic experience, you can’t go wrong with pairing it with more pasta, like a simple side of garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. This makes for a wonderful creamy garlic chicken pasta scampi experience.

I also find that a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is a brilliant contrast to the richness of the scampi. It adds a refreshing element that balances the flavors beautifully. Steamed or roasted asparagus or broccoli also makes for a healthy and delicious addition, bringing a lovely bit of color and texture to your plate.

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Garlic Chicken Scampi

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delicious creamy garlic chicken scampi. It’s a hearty dish that offers a good balance of protein and healthy fats.

• Calories: 650 kcal
• Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 20 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 500 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Scampi with Garlic and Cream

Leftovers of this delicious chicken scampi with garlic and cream are a treat for another day! Once your pasta has cooled slightly, transfer any remaining portions into airtight containers. You can safely store them in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer preservation of your chicken scampi with garlic and cream, consider freezing. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat this dish is gently. You can reheat it in a skillet over low to medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce seems too thick. Alternatively, microwave it in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method helps maintain the creamy texture of the sauce, ensuring your reheated chicken scampi with garlic and cream is just as delightful as when it was first made.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Chicken Scampi

What makes this creamy garlic chicken scampi recipe so good?

The magic is in the balance! We use a rich garlic-butter base, deglaze with wine for depth, and then add heavy cream for that luxurious, velvety texture. It’s a simple creamy chicken scampi that delivers big on flavor without being overly complicated.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this chicken scampi with cream sauce?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative. They offer a slightly richer flavor and are more forgiving if you accidentally overcook them, ensuring a tender result in your chicken scampi with cream sauce.

How do I make this a cheesy garlic chicken scampi?

It’s incredibly easy! For a cheesy garlic chicken scampi, simply stir in an additional 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese along with the original 1/2 cup. You could even sprinkle a little extra on top before serving for an extra cheesy kick.

Is this a one-pan creamy chicken scampi dinner?

While we cook the pasta separately, the sauce and chicken come together beautifully in one pan, making it very close to a one-pan meal. This simplifies cleanup significantly, making it a truly convenient one-pan creamy chicken scampi dinner.

Variations of Creamy Garlic Chicken Scampi You Can Try

This creamy garlic chicken scampi is fantastic as is, but I love playing around with it to create even more delicious variations! Here are a few ideas to inspire your next meal:

• Vegetarian Delight: Skip the chicken and sauté your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini in butter and garlic before adding the cream sauce. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a meat-free version of this classic dish.
• Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic. It adds a subtle warmth that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, making for a zesty creamy garlic chicken scampi.
• Herb Garden Fresh: While parsley is great, don’t hesitate to experiment with other fresh herbs! A mix of chives, dill, or even a touch of basil can add unique flavor dimensions to your creamy garlic chicken scampi.
• Alcohol-Free Option: If you prefer to make your creamy garlic chicken scampi without wine, simply substitute with an equal amount of good quality chicken broth. The flavor will still be rich and delicious, proving you don’t always need wine for amazing taste.

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