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In the midst of a hectic week, nothing feels more like a warm embrace than indulging in a homemade meal. Enter my Easy Chicken Scarpariello—an Italian-American masterpiece that brings comfort and excitement to your dinner table! With its succulent chicken thighs paired with spicy Italian sausage, this dish is not just a satisfying feast but also a quick, low-carb option that everyone will love. In just 50 minutes, you can elevate your weeknight dining without sacrificing flavor or time. Plus, the customizable spice levels mean you can tailor it to your family’s taste, making it the perfect crowd-pleaser. So, are you ready to explore the delightful flavors of Chicken Scarpariello and make your evenings a little more special?
Why is Chicken Scarpariello a Must-Try?
Convenience: This easy Chicken Scarpariello comes together in just 50 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: With bold ingredients like garlic, spicy sausage, and tangy cherry peppers, your taste buds will be dancing!
Customizable: Adjust the spice level and side dishes to suit your family’s taste—pair it with Italian Keto Antipasto Salad or creamy polenta for a delightful twist.
Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy guilt-free indulgence without compromising on richness or flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s for a family dinner or entertaining friends, this dish guarantees smiles all around!
Easy Chicken Scarpariello Ingredients
For the Chicken
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- Chicken Thighs – Provides richness and tenderness; use bone-in, skin-on for the best flavor.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the chicken.
- Vegetable Oil – Necessary for searing the chicken and sausage, creating a golden crust.
For the Flavor Base
- Italian Sausage – Adds a savory, spicy element; choose hot or mild based on your preference.
- Onion – Contributes sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed nicely.
- Red Bell Pepper – Brings sweetness and a vibrant pop of color to the dish.
- Garlic – Offers that aromatic flavor that is essential for a classic Chicken Scarpariello.
For the Sauce
- Pickled Cherry Peppers – Adds tanginess and a unique kick; adjust the amount for desired heat.
- Dry White Wine – Recommended for deglazing the pan; try Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Chicken Stock – Forms the flavorful base; consider low-sodium for a lighter option.
For Garnishing
- Fresh Parsley – Enhances color and offers a refreshing herbal note to the finished dish.
- Red Chili Flakes – An optional garnish for those craving extra heat in their easy Chicken Scarpariello.
Elevate your weeknight meals with this vibrant mix of ingredients that truly makes Chicken Scarpariello a comforting yet exciting dining experience!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Chicken Scarpariello
Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until they develop a golden crust, about 5-7 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 2: Brown Sausage
In the same skillet, add the Italian sausage links. Cook them over medium heat, turning occasionally, until they are browned all over, approximately 4-5 minutes. This will add depth of flavor to your Easy Chicken Scarpariello. After browning, transfer the sausage to the plate with the chicken and allow to rest.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Using the rendered fat in the skillet, add the sliced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. Toss in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until aromatic. This step builds the flavor base for your dish.
Step 4: Add Peppers and Deglaze
Stir in the pickled cherry peppers along with their juice and let them cook for about 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors. Next, pour in the dry white wine, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the skillet. Allow it to simmer for about 2 minutes until slightly reduced, creating a rich sauce that will enhance your Easy Chicken Scarpariello.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the chicken thighs and browned sausage back to the skillet, then add the chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat to medium-low. Let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is tender. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
Step 6: Serve
Carefully remove the skillet from heat and garnish your Easy Chicken Scarpariello with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red chili flakes for an extra kick. Allow it to rest for a few minutes, then serve hot, savoring the harmonious combination of savory, tangy, and spicy flavors in every bite.
Expert Tips for Easy Chicken Scarpariello
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Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality, fresh ingredients for the best flavor. This makes a noticeable difference in your Easy Chicken Scarpariello.
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Proper Searing: Ensure the chicken and sausage are adequately seared for that golden-brown crust; it adds depth to the dish.
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Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasonings while cooking. Remember, everyone’s palate is different—don’t hesitate to personalize your Easy Chicken Scarpariello!
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Adjust the Heat: If spice isn’t your forte, select mild sausage and reduce red chili flakes to keep the dish approachable.
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Let it Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps flavor meld and enhances the overall dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Chicken Scarpariello are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the chicken by seasoning and searing it up to 24 hours in advance, letting it rest in the fridge to maintain its juicy texture. Additionally, you can chop the onions and red bell peppers, and mince the garlic up to 3 days ahead for an easier cooking experience. When you’re ready to serve, simply bring the seared chicken and sautéed vegetables back together while following the remaining steps to finish the dish—ensuring you still enjoy that comforting Italian flavor. With these tips, you’ll have a delightful homemade meal with minimal effort on a busy weeknight!
Easy Chicken Scarpariello Variations
Feel free to experiment with these ideas to make your Easy Chicken Scarpariello uniquely yours!
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Lighter Option: Substitute Italian sausage with chicken sausage for a leaner, yet still flavorful dish.
This small swap makes a big difference without sacrificing taste! -
Colorful Veggies: Use different colored bell peppers like yellow or green for a vibrant twist.
This not only enhances the dish visually but adds a slight variation in taste as well. -
Extra Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritional boost.
Your Easy Chicken Scarpariello becomes even heartier and more nutritious with this simple addition. -
Herbal Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme when combining the ingredients for a fragrant layer of flavor.
The aroma will elevate your dining experience, making it even more inviting! -
Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by using hot Italian sausage or adding more red chili flakes to taste.
If you want to turn up the spice, this tweak will definitely get your taste buds excited. -
Mushroom Medley: Incorporate sliced mushrooms for an earthy texture and additional flavor.
They’ll soak up the savory sauce beautifully, making each bite more delightful. -
Zesty Twist: Squeeze some fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten the dish.
The acidity cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing note to the meal. -
Side Suggestions: Pair your Chicken Scarpariello with a side of Italian Keto Antipasto Salad or creamy polenta for a complete meal.
This combination will leave your family raving about dinner all night long!
What to Serve with Easy Chicken Scarpariello
There’s nothing quite like a savory Italian-American dish to create the perfect meal experience alongside family and friends.
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Creamy Polenta: This soft, comforting side perfectly pairs with the bold flavors of the Chicken Scarpariello, soaking up that delicious sauce.
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Italian Keto Antipasto Salad: With fresh ingredients and zesty dressing, this vibrant salad complements the richness of the chicken while keeping it low-carb.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlicky bread is ideal for mopping up the flavorful sauce, making every bite satisfying.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slightly bitter, caramelized Brussels sprouts add a pleasant contrast to the dish’s savory notes, providing a healthy, crunchy bite.
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Sautéed Zucchini: Lightly cooked zucchini offers a tender, fresh element, lending a refreshing texture to balance the heartiness of the Chicken Scarpariello.
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Red Wine: A glass of Pinot Noir enhances the meal’s flavor profile, echoing the wine used in the dish while elevating the dining experience.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Chicken Scarpariello
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Easy Chicken Scarpariello in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until the internal temperature reaches 165°F to maintain quality and flavor.
- Meal Prep: Consider making a double batch for quick and easy meals later in the week, ensuring you can enjoy this delightful dish without extra effort.
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Easy Chicken Scarpariello Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for Chicken Scarpariello?
For the best flavor, I recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. They provide richness and tenderness that perfectly complements the dish. If you’re looking to make it healthier, boneless thighs can also work wonderfully!
How should I store leftovers after making Easy Chicken Scarpariello?
Store any leftover Chicken Scarpariello in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat or use the microwave, ensuring it’s heated through.
Can I freeze Easy Chicken Scarpariello?
Absolutely! You can freeze this delightful dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it out in the fridge overnight and reheat gently until it reaches 165°F.
What if I want to adjust the spice level?
No worries! You can easily customize the spice level to fit your family’s taste. For a milder version, opt for mild Italian sausage and reduce or omit the red chili flakes. Additionally, feel free to adjust the quantity of pickled cherry peppers based on how much heat you want to introduce!
Can my pet have any leftovers?
It’s best to avoid giving pets any leftovers from this dish, particularly because of the garlic, which can be harmful to dogs. Stick to pet-safe meals for your furry friends, and enjoy your Easy Chicken Scarpariello guilt-free!
What if I want to add more veggies to the dish?
Great idea! You can definitely add more vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms to your Easy Chicken Scarpariello. If you’re aiming for more variety in flavor and presentation, consider using different colored bell peppers too. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic!
Easy Chicken Scarpariello: A Flavor-Packed Weeknight Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken skin-side down for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the Italian sausage links and cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until browned all over, approximately 4-5 minutes. Transfer to the plate with the chicken.
- Add sliced onion and red bell pepper to the rendered fat. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until tender, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in pickled cherry peppers along with their juice, cooking for 2-3 minutes. Pour in dry white wine and scrape up browned bits. Simmer for about 2 minutes until reduced.
- Return the chicken and sausage back to the skillet, adding chicken stock. Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 20-25 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and red chili flakes. Allow to rest a few minutes before serving hot.
