Growing up in an Italian-American family, Chicken Scarpariello was a dish I always looked forward to. The vibrant flavors and comforting aroma would fill our kitchen, instantly transporting me back to Sunday dinners at Nonna’s house. There was just something about the way the tender chicken mingled with the tangy vinegar, the sweet peppers, and the salty capers that made it an absolute delight.
I can still remember my mom carefully browning the chicken, then simmering it in that irresistible sauce until the meat was fall-off-the-bone tender. The first bite was always a moment of pure bliss – the juicy chicken, the bright pops of flavor from the peppers and capers, the perfect balance of sweet and sour. Chicken Scarpariello wasn’t just a meal, it was an experience.
As I grew older and started cooking for myself, I knew I had to master this family recipe. After countless trials and experiments, I finally landed on a version that captured all the nostalgia and deliciousness of Nonna’s Chicken Scarpariello. And let me tell you, it’s become a staple in my own kitchen ever since.
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Why This Chicken Scarpariello Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Chicken Scarpariello
The secret to truly outstanding Chicken Scarpariello lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. This recipe uses a combination of juicy, bite-sized chicken thighs, crisp bell peppers, and a tangy, slightly sweet sauce that brings it all together. By lightly dredging the chicken in flour before searing, you get a delightful crunch on the outside while keeping the meat tender and juicy on the inside.
The key is to let the chicken develop a nice golden-brown crust before adding the rest of the ingredients. This not only seals in the flavor, but it also creates a delectable sauce that’s thick, glossy, and coats every bite. And the addition of capers, lemon juice, and a hint of heat from crushed red pepper flakes takes this dish to the next level, elevating the classic Chicken Scarpariello into something truly special.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
At the heart of this Chicken Scarpariello recipe are the chicken thighs. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the perfect cut, as they stay juicy and tender even after searing and simmering in the sauce. The 1-inch pieces also make for easy, bite-sized bites.
The all-purpose flour is key for dredging the chicken, giving it that irresistible crunch. The olive oil is used for both searing the chicken and sautéing the aromatics, infusing the dish with rich, savory flavor.
Sliced onions, minced garlic, and a mix of red and yellow bell peppers add sweetness, depth, and vibrant color to the Chicken Scarpariello. The white wine vinegar provides the signature tang, while the chicken broth helps create the silky sauce.
Lemon juice, capers, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes round out the flavors, delivering a perfect balance of tangy, herbal, and subtly spicy notes.
Step-by-Step Chicken Scarpariello Instructions
Preparing Your Chicken Scarpariello
Chicken Scarpariello is a quick and easy dish that comes together in just 45 minutes – 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cook time. To get started, you’ll need a large skillet or Dutch oven, a sharp knife, a cutting board, and a few basic cooking utensils.
1- Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces. Dredge the chicken in the all-purpose flour, making sure to coat each piece evenly.
2- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Working in batches if needed, sear the chicken until it develops a golden-brown crust on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
3- Remove the seared chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4- In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper slices until they start to soften and caramelize, about 5-7 minutes.
5- Add the white wine vinegar, chicken broth, lemon juice, capers, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Simmer the Chicken Scarpariello for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Pro Tips for Success
For the best Chicken Scarpariello, there are a few key tips to keep in mind:
First, be sure to cut the chicken into evenly sized 1-inch pieces. This ensures they cook through quickly and evenly. Dredging the chicken in flour also helps create that delightful crunch, so don’t skip this step.
When searing the chicken, resist the urge to overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if needed to ensure the chicken has enough room to brown properly. This will give you the best texture and flavor.
Another important tip is to let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken to a glossy, coating consistency. Be patient – the extra time is worth it for the full-bodied sauce.
Finally, be generous with the lemon juice, capers, and crushed red pepper flakes. These ingredients are what really make the Chicken Scarpariello sing, so don’t be shy with them.
Serving and Storing Your Chicken Scarpariello
Perfect Pairings for Chicken Scarpariello
This Chicken Scarpariello recipe serves 6 people, making it a great choice for family dinners or small gatherings. As for pairings, the bold, tangy flavors pair beautifully with simple side dishes that let the chicken shine.
For a classic Italian-inspired meal, serve the Chicken Scarpariello over a bed of al dente pasta, like penne or linguine. The sauce is so delectable, you’ll want to soak it all up. Alternatively, you can serve it with creamy polenta or garlic-infused mashed potatoes.
To balance the richness, a fresh, crunchy salad makes an excellent accompaniment. Think a simple green salad with a bright lemon vinaigrette or a colorful Mediterranean-style salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives.
For beverages, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc would complement the dish nicely. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, a tall glass of iced tea or lemonade would also be refreshing.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Chicken Scarpariello is the perfect dish to make ahead of time or to have leftovers on hand. The flavors only intensify as the dish sits, making it a great meal-prep option.
To store, let the Chicken Scarpariello cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals.
For longer storage, Chicken Scarpariello also freezes exceptionally well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven until piping hot.
You can even prepare the Chicken Scarpariello a day in advance. Simply sear the chicken, sauté the vegetables, and make the sauce. Then, store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Chicken Scarpariello
Creative Chicken Scarpariello Variations
While the classic Chicken Scarpariello is truly a flavor explosion, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this dish. For a seasonal twist, try swapping out the bell peppers for sautéed mushrooms and asparagus in the spring, or roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts in the fall.
You could also experiment with different proteins, such as shrimp or sausage, in place of the chicken. The tangy, vinegar-based sauce would be delicious with either of those options.
For a heartier meal, serve the Chicken Scarpariello over creamy polenta and top it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Or, for a lighter take, serve it over a bed of zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
No matter how you choose to customize it, Chicken Scarpariello is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Making Chicken Scarpariello Diet-Friendly
Chicken Scarpariello is already a fairly healthy dish, but there are a few easy modifications you can make to accommodate specific dietary needs.
For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch to dredge the chicken. This will give you the same crunchy texture without the gluten.
If you’re watching your carb intake, you can serve the Chicken Scarpariello over a bed of zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta or potatoes.
For a vegan or vegetarian option, swap out the chicken for extra-firm tofu or sautéed mushrooms. You can also omit the capers and use a plant-based broth to make the dish completely vegan.
No matter which dietary restrictions you’re working with, Chicken Scarpariello is a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to fit your needs while still delivering on bold, satisfying flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: While chicken thighs are the traditional choice for Chicken Scarpariello, you can certainly use chicken breasts if that’s your preference. Just keep in mind that chicken breasts can dry out more easily, so be sure not to overcook them.
Q: How long does it take to make Chicken Scarpariello?
A: This Chicken Scarpariello recipe has a total time of 45 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cook time. The key is to work efficiently and have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.
Q: Can I make Chicken Scarpariello ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Chicken Scarpariello is a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can prepare the entire recipe up to 4 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Q: How many servings does this Chicken Scarpariello recipe make?
A: This Chicken Scarpariello recipe serves 6 people. If you need to feed a larger crowd, you can easily double or triple the recipe as needed.
Q: What should I do if the sauce is too thin?
A: If the sauce for your Chicken Scarpariello is a bit on the thin side, simply let it simmer for a few minutes longer. The extra time will allow the sauce to thicken and become nice and glossy. You can also try mixing a teaspoon or two of cornstarch with a small amount of water, then stirring it into the sauce to help it come together.
Chicken Scarpariello
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Chicken Scarpariello is a delightful Italian-American dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a savory, tangy sauce. This easy-to-make recipe delivers restaurant-quality results at home.
Ingredients
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons capers, drained
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Pat the chicken dry and toss it with the flour in a bowl until evenly coated.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
4. Pour in the white wine vinegar and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Add the lemon juice, capers, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper.
6. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
7. Serve the Chicken Scarpariello hot, over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Enjoy!
Notes
– For a creamier sauce, you can stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or sour cream at the end. – Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness. – This dish can be made ahead and reheated, as the flavors only improve over time.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Chicken, Turkey & Pork Mains
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Conclusion
Chicken Scarpariello is a true Italian-American classic that deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation. With its winning combination of tender chicken, vibrant peppers, and a tangy, flavorful sauce, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
What I love most about this recipe is how it manages to be both comforting and elegant, making it perfect for everything from weeknight family dinners to special occasions with friends. And with the make-ahead and storage tips, you can easily have it on hand whenever the craving strikes.
So, what are you waiting for? Give this Chicken Scarpariello a try, and I guarantee it will become a new go-to in your kitchen. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out – I’d love to hear your thoughts!
