Scampi, traditionally a seafood dish, gets a delightful twist with the addition of chicken! This recipe combines the succulent sweetness of shrimp with the savory tenderness of chicken, creating a symphony of flavors that's sure to impress. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish is surprisingly easy to make and offers a fantastic way to enjoy the best of both worlds. Let's dive into the details!
What is Scampi?
Before we get started, let's clarify what scampi actually is. Scampi is an Italian dish characterized by its simple yet elegant preparation. It traditionally features garlic, butter, white wine, and lemon juice, creating a rich and flavorful sauce that perfectly complements seafood, particularly shrimp. Our shrimp and chicken scampi recipe builds upon this classic foundation, adding chicken for a heartier and more versatile meal.
What are the best types of shrimp and chicken to use for scampi?
Choosing the right ingredients is crucial for a successful shrimp and chicken scampi. For the shrimp, opt for large, peeled, and deveined shrimp. These cook quickly and evenly, ensuring a perfect texture. As for the chicken, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. They're easy to cut into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they cook thoroughly alongside the shrimp.
How to make shrimp and chicken scampi? A step-by-step guide
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Linguine or spaghetti (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the chicken: Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the shrimp: Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the scampi sauce: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Deglaze the pan: Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, until slightly reduced.
- Combine everything: Return the chicken and shrimp to the skillet. Stir in the chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Cook your pasta according to package directions. Toss the cooked pasta with the shrimp and chicken scampi sauce and serve immediately. Garnish with extra parsley, if desired.
Can I make shrimp and chicken scampi ahead of time?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the scampi sauce ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, add the cooked chicken and shrimp, and toss with pasta.
What sides go well with shrimp and chicken scampi?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. A simple green salad, crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce, or roasted vegetables are all excellent choices.
Is shrimp and chicken scampi healthy?
Shrimp and chicken scampi can be a part of a healthy diet. Chicken is a lean protein source, and shrimp is low in calories and high in protein. However, the butter and white wine in the sauce add fat and calories. To make it healthier, you can reduce the amount of butter or use a lighter alternative, such as olive oil.
What are some variations of shrimp and chicken scampi?
Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts to the sauce for extra depth and texture. You can also use different types of pasta, such as fettuccine or angel hair.
Enjoy your delicious and flavorful shrimp and chicken scampi! Remember to adjust seasonings to your preference for a truly personalized culinary experience.
