Oh, let me tell you about my love for chicken scarpariello! This dish is such a wonderful blend of tender chicken, vibrant peppers, and that tangy vinegar kick that just dances on your taste buds. Originating from Italian-American kitchens, it’s become a comforting staple in my home. I still remember the first time I had it at my friend’s family dinner. The aroma wafting through the air was irresistible, and I couldn’t wait to dig in! Now, every time I make this chicken scarpariello recipe, I’m transported back to that cozy evening, surrounded by laughter and good food. It’s quick, it’s flavorful, and it’s perfect for any weeknight dinner!
Ingredients List
- 4 chicken thighs, skinless and bone-in
- 4 chicken drumsticks, skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced thinly
- 2 bell peppers, sliced (any color you prefer)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust based on your heat preference)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
How to Prepare Chicken Scarpariello Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
First things first, let’s get that olive oil nice and hot! In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke—this usually takes about 2 minutes. The trick here is to keep an eye on it; you don’t want it to get too hot too quickly!
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Now it’s time to add your chicken! Season those thighs and drumsticks generously with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down in the skillet. Let them brown for about 6-8 minutes without moving them around—this helps develop that beautiful golden crust. Once they’re golden and crispy, flip them over and cook for another 6-8 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and smell amazing!
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Next up, let’s add some color! Toss in your sliced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Stir everything around and cook for around 5 minutes until the veggies start to soften. You’re looking for that perfect balance where the onions become translucent and the peppers are slightly tender but still have a crunch!
Step 4: Incorporate Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
Now, it’s garlic time! Add in those minced garlic cloves and sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Sauté for just about 1 minute—this is where you need to be careful; garlic burns quickly! This step adds a wonderful aroma and flavor, so don’t skip it. If you like it spicy, feel free to add more red pepper flakes!
Step 5: Deglaze with Vinegar
Here comes the magic moment! Pour in 1/2 cup of white wine vinegar, and make sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. Those brown bits are packed with flavor! Let it bubble away for a minute or two, then cover the skillet and let it simmer.
Step 6: Simmer the Dish
Cover your skillet and let everything simmer for about 30 minutes. This is when the chicken becomes tender and juicy, soaking up all those delicious flavors. To check if the chicken is done, make sure the juices run clear when pierced with a knife, and it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Finally, it’s time to serve up this delightful dish! Transfer the chicken and veggies to a platter, and if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. I love serving it with some crusty bread on the side to soak up that tangy sauce. Enjoy every bite of this comforting chicken scarpariello recipe!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying this chicken scarpariello recipe, it’s good to know what’s on your plate! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are just typical estimates:
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
This dish is not only delicious but also packs a good amount of protein, making it a hearty meal option. Just remember, these numbers might shift a bit depending on how you prepare it or any variations you decide to try. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: This chicken scarpariello recipe comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavorful: The combination of tender chicken, vibrant peppers, and tangy vinegar creates a deliciously bold dish that will have your taste buds dancing.
- Perfect for family dinners: It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy, bringing the family together around the table.
- One-skillet wonder: Less cleanup is always a win! Everything cooks in one skillet, so you can focus on enjoying your meal.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the heat level with more or less red pepper flakes or swap in your favorite vegetables!
- Great for leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.
Tips for Success
Making the perfect chicken scarpariello recipe is all about a few key tips that will elevate your dish to the next level! Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:
- Season generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper when seasoning your chicken. It’s the foundation of flavor, so make sure to coat it well!
- Adjust the heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less red pepper flakes and taste as you go. You can always add more if you like it fiery!
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and vibrant peppers will really enhance the flavor of your dish. If you can, skip the pre-minced garlic and go for the real deal!
- Keep an eye on the cooking time: Every stove is different, so check your chicken a little earlier than the recommended time to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
- Let it rest: After cooking, let your chicken sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy meat.
- Pair wisely: Serve with crusty bread or over a bed of rice to soak up that delicious sauce! It makes for a complete meal that’s satisfying and comforting.
- Experiment: Don’t hesitate to try different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. They can add a new twist to the traditional flavors!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re set to create a chicken scarpariello that will impress anyone who sits at your table. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up with your chicken scarpariello recipe, there are plenty of fun variations to explore! Here are some ideas that I absolutely love:
- Spicy Twist: For a real kick, add sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce along with the red pepper flakes. It’ll take your dish to a whole new level of heat!
- Different Proteins: Swap out the chicken for other proteins like pork chops or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly—shrimp cooks super fast!
- Vegetable Medley: Feel free to mix in other veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or even cherry tomatoes. They’ll soak up all that yummy sauce and add extra flavor!
- Herbed Up: Add a handful of fresh herbs like thyme or oregano during the cooking process for a fragrant herbal note. Fresh basil sprinkled on top right before serving is also divine!
- Sweet and Sour: Add a splash of honey or brown sugar to the vinegar for a sweet and sour twist. It balances the tanginess beautifully!
- Wine Lovers: Swap the white wine vinegar with a dry white wine for a richer flavor. Just remember to let it simmer long enough for the alcohol to cook off!
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end for a creamy sauce that coats the chicken and veggies luxuriously.
These variations not only keep things exciting but also allow you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences. So don’t be afraid to get creative and make this chicken scarpariello recipe your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Let’s talk about how to keep your delicious chicken scarpariello fresh for those busy days ahead! After you’ve enjoyed your meal, make sure to store any leftovers properly to maintain that incredible flavor and texture.
First, let the chicken cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help prevent condensation and keep it from getting soggy. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for longer, consider freezing it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags—label them with the date so you don’t forget!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is super easy. For the best results, I recommend warming it up on the stovetop over medium heat. Just add a splash of water or chicken broth to the skillet to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through, which should take about 10–15 minutes.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat it in the microwave. Just place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, stirring in between. Just be careful not to overheat it, as it can become tough!
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your chicken scarpariello even on the busiest of days. Happy feasting!
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Chicken Scarpariello Recipe: 7 Flavors That Satisfy
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This chicken scarpariello recipe features tender chicken cooked with peppers, garlic, and a tangy vinegar sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, then brown in the skillet.
- Add onion and bell peppers, cooking until softened.
- Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute.
- Pour in white wine vinegar, scraping the bottom of the skillet.
- Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Adjust red pepper flakes to taste for desired heat.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: chicken scarpariello recipe, Italian chicken recipe, skillet chicken
