chicken scampi recipe olive garden
The Best chicken scampi recipe olive garden
Chicken scampi is one of those dishes that feels like a little slice of Italian magic right in your kitchen, and I’ve been making it for years because it’s just so satisfying. There’s something about the bright, garlicky flavor of the shrimp and the tender, buttery chicken that makes it feel like a special meal, even if it’s just for the family. My kids love it because it’s quick to make, and they always ask for seconds—especially when it’s paired with the garlic bread and a simple salad. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but isn’t too heavy, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering where you want something that feels festive but isn’t overly complicated. Plus, the shrimp are leaner than you might think, and the chicken adds a good dose of protein without being too rich, so it’s a balanced choice for anyone who wants something flavorful without sacrificing nutrition.
I love this recipe because it’s simple enough that even if I’m tired after a long day, I can whip it up without stress. The key is balancing the garlic and lemon with just enough butter and Parmesan to make it rich without needing a ton of ingredients. My husband and I have made it for holidays and casual dinners, and it always gets rave reviews—especially when the kids are involved. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a little treat but isn’t too much work, which is why I keep it in my rotation. The health benefits are also nice to note: shrimp is packed with omega-3s, and the chicken provides lean protein, while the garlic adds antioxidants. It’s not just delicious—it’s smart too. Plus, when you make it with fresh ingredients and a little love in the seasoning, it just tastes better than anything you’d find in a restaurant.
Chicken Scampi (Olive Garden Inspired)
A flavorful dish featuring succulent chicken sautéed in garlic butter and lemon, served over al dente linguine with a tangy olive oil-based sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 8 oz boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8 oz linguine
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
👨🍳Directions
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1 Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
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2 In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
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3 In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add white wine (if using) and let it reduce by half. Stir in lemon juice and heavy cream, simmering for 2 minutes.
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4 Return chicken to the skillet, adding red pepper flakes if desired. Cook for 2 minutes to warm through.
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5 In a separate saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add heavy cream and lemon juice, simmering for 3 minutes. Stir in grated Parmesan and chopped parsley until melted.
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6 Toss cooked linguine with the Parmesan sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce. Divide linguine among plates, top with chicken scampi, and garnish with extra parsley and Parmesan.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet
- Kitchen shears
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Serving platter
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Chicken Scampi (Olive Garden Inspired) Works
Chicken scampi from Olive Garden is a simple yet foolproof dish that always brings a little extra comfort to any meal. Its bright lemony sauce and tender garlic butter shrimp feel like a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it at a casual family dinner or a relaxed get-together. The recipe’s adaptability—whether you swap in chicken or keep it classic—makes it a reliable choice for busy nights when you want something quick yet satisfying without the fuss. Plus, it’s easy to scale up or down, so it never feels like a chore to feed a crowd.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Scampi (Olive Garden Inspired)
What is the main difference between Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi and their Chicken Parmesan?
Chicken Scampi at Olive Garden features breaded chicken cutlets coated in a light batter and pan-seared to perfection, then tossed in a vibrant garlic butter sauce with fresh shrimp. Unlike Chicken Parmesan, which includes a rich tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and breadcrumbs, Chicken Scampi is a lighter, seafood-inspired dish with a focus on garlic and lemon flavors.
Can I request a side of garlic bread or a salad with my Chicken Scampi order?
Yes, you can absolutely add a side of garlic bread or a salad to your Chicken Scampi order. Olive Garden offers a variety of sides, including garlic bread, breadsticks, a Caesar salad, or a garden salad, to complement your meal.
How long does it take to prepare Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi?
Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi is typically prepared quickly, usually taking around 10-15 minutes from the moment your order is placed to when it’s ready to serve. The speed depends on the restaurant’s current traffic, but it’s generally a fast and efficient dish.
What is the sauce used in Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi, and can it be customized?
The signature sauce for Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi is a bright garlic butter sauce, which includes fresh lemon juice, garlic, and butter. While the restaurant’s signature sauce is standard, some locations might offer a choice between the classic garlic butter or a slightly different variation. You can always ask your server about any available customization options.
Is Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi vegan or vegetarian-friendly?
No, Olive Garden’s Chicken Scampi is not vegan or vegetarian-friendly as it contains chicken, butter, and other animal-based ingredients. However, you can opt for the Chicken Alfredo or Chicken Parmesan if you’re looking for vegetarian or vegan alternatives, though those also contain dairy. Always check with your server about dietary options available at your location.
