Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Recipe – The Best Copycat 

Craving a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that brings the taste of Olive Garden straight to your kitchen? Look no further than this Olive Garden Chicken Scampi recipe! It combines tender chicken, sautéed in a creamy garlic butter sauce, with pasta for a dish that’s packed with rich, comforting flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Scampi

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add Liquids:
   Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
5. Combine Chicken and Pasta:
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss until everything is well combined and coated with the sauce.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   Sprinkle with fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes for a little heat. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• Substitutions:
  • You can use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
  • For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
• Variations:
  • Add vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Tips for the Recipe

• Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
• Adjust the cream to chicken broth ratio if you prefer a richer or lighter sauce.
• For extra garlic flavor, add more minced garlic when making the sauce.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance, then combine everything just before serving.

Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely! This dish works well with any type of pasta, from penne to spaghetti.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 600
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 35g
• Fiber: 3g

Conclusion

This Olive Garden Chicken Scampi recipe brings all the delicious flavors of the beloved restaurant dish to your kitchen, making it an easy and satisfying meal. Creamy, savory, and comforting, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Give it a try tonight, and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below!