There’s a certain joy that comes from transforming simple ingredients into a hearty meal, and that’s exactly what Chicken Scarpariello does. The rich aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with spicy Italian sausage always draws me into the kitchen, ready to whip up a dish that promises comfort and satisfaction. On one of those chilly evenings, when I craved something warm and filling, I stumbled upon this delightful recipe that perfectly balances heat, sweetness, and tanginess.
Imagine biting into succulent chicken thighs, infused with the vibrant flavors of bell peppers and the unexpected zing of pickled cherry peppers. This dish encapsulates the best of Italian-American kitchen magic, all while being delightfully low-carb—a win for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Chicken Scarpariello is sure to impress and reignite your love for homemade meals. Just 50 minutes from prep to plate, let’s dive into this rustic delight that is bound to become a regular feature on your dining table!
Why is Chicken Scarpariello a must-try?
Simplicity at its Best: This dish comes together in just 50 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights.
Rich, Hearty Flavors: A delightful combination of succulent chicken thighs and spicy Italian sausage creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Versatile Enjoyment: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night at home, this recipe adapts beautifully to any occasion.
Low-Carb Delight: Indulge without the guilt! Enjoy a hearty meal that fits seamlessly into low-carb lifestyles.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Your family and friends will love the flavorful juxtaposition of savory, sweet, and tangy notes—everyone goes back for seconds!
Dive into my expert tips to enhance this dish further. You’ll discover ways to customize it to suit your personal taste!
Chicken Scarpariello Ingredients
• Fresh ingredients for an authentic dish.
For the Chicken
- Chicken Thighs – Use bone-in, skin-on for optimal juiciness and flavor.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for bringing out the rich taste of the chicken and sausage.
For the Sauté
- Vegetable Oil – Necessary for searing the chicken and sausage, adding depth to the dish.
- Italian Sausage (Hot or Mild) – Choose hot for a spicy kick or mild for a more balanced flavor.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and a savory base to the dish.
- Red Bell Pepper – Provides sweetness and a burst of vibrant color.
- Garlic – Infuses the dish with its aromatic, pungent flavor.
For the Sauce
- Pickled Cherry Peppers – Give the dish a tangy heat; substitute with sweet peppers for less spice.
- Dry White Wine – Deglazes the pan, adding acidity; a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works wonderfully.
- Chicken Stock – Forms the rich sauce base; low-sodium is recommended to control salt levels.
For Garnishing
- Fresh Parsley – Adds a refreshing touch and vibrant color.
- Red Chili Flakes – Sprinkle for an extra kick of heat to awaken your taste buds.
Get ready to transform these wholesome ingredients into a mouthwatering Chicken Scarpariello that will have everyone asking for the recipe!
How to Make Chicken Scarpariello
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Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat, then sear the thighs until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes each side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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Brown the Sausage: In the same pan, add the Italian sausage links and cook until they are browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
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Sauté Aromatics: Using the remaining oil in the pan, add the sliced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until they soften and turn fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
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Incorporate Peppers: Stir in the pickled cherry peppers along with their juice. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
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Deglaze: Pour in the dry white wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to reduce slightly, about 2 minutes.
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Combine Everything: Pour in the chicken stock, then return the chicken and sausage to the pan. Simmer on medium-low heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Serve: Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red chili flakes for that extra kick.
Optional: Serve with a side of Italian Keto Antipasto Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Chicken Scarpariello is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to save precious time! You can sear the chicken and brown the sausage up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to preserve their succulent flavors. Additionally, feel free to sauté the vegetables and make the sauce ahead of time; just let it cool completely before refrigerating for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine all components in a skillet, add the chicken stock, and simmer until heated through. This way, your Chicken Scarpariello will be just as delicious and comforting with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Chicken Scarpariello?
Enhance your dining experience with these delightful pairings that complement the rich and hearty flavors of Chicken Scarpariello.
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Creamy Polenta: This smooth and creamy cornmeal dish offers a comforting contrast to the robust flavors, soaking up all the delicious sauce.
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Italian Keto Antipasto Salad: Crisp greens, olives, and cheese add a refreshing crunch, balancing the saucy richness of the Chicken Scarpariello.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, toasty garlic bread provides a satisfying way to enjoy every drop of that flavorful sauce, making it hard to resist.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nutty, caramelized flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts adds an earthy touch to your plate and a delightful texture.
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Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds a pop of color and freshness, creating a vibrant contrast to your hearty main dish.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc will elevate your meal, enhancing the wine’s subtle notes found in the cooking process.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate beautifully after the savory Chicken Scarpariello, providing a light finish to the meal.
Pairing these options with Chicken Scarpariello will create a truly unforgettable dining experience!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Scarpariello
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Scarpariello in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to retain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Chicken Scarpariello in an airtight container for up to 2 months. For best results, cool before transferring and label with the date.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to keep it moist.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Chicken Scarpariello at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent foodborne illness.
Chicken Scarpariello Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Chicken Scarpariello, allowing your taste buds to explore new horizons of flavor!
- Dairy-Free: Replace any butter or dairy with extra olive oil for a rich flavor without dairy.
- Vegetable Boost: Add zucchini or mushrooms during the sautéing step for an extra layer of texture and nutrition.
- Spicy Variation: Use spicy Italian sausage and toss in sliced jalapeños for an added kick of heat that lovers of spice will adore.
- Sweet Twist: Incorporate caramelized onions for a hint of sweetness, balancing the dish with a mellow flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Along with parsley, add fresh basil or oregano while simmering to enhance the dish with fragrant herbal tones.
- Nutty Addition: Toss in roasted pine nuts before serving to introduce an appealing crunch and nutty depth to every bite.
- Citrus Zest: Brighten the flavors by adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving to elevate the dish with a refreshing twist.
- Low-Carb Swap: For a truly low-carb version, serve with cauliflower rice instead of traditional side items, enhancing both comfort and healthiness.
Your culinary imagination is the limit—experiment with these ideas and make this dish uniquely yours!
Expert Tips for Chicken Scarpariello
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Use Quality Ingredients: Choosing fresh, high-quality ingredients will elevate the flavor of your Chicken Scarpariello, resulting in a dish that truly shines.
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Don’t Rush the Searing: Take your time when searing the chicken and sausage; achieving a golden-brown crust adds depth to the dish and enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Taste as You Go: Make sure to taste your sauce as it simmers. Adjust seasonings to your preference, particularly with salt and pepper, to suit your personal palate.
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Customize Levels of Heat: If you’re not a fan of spicy food, opt for mild Italian sausage and reduce or omit the red chili flakes to keep the Chicken Scarpariello mild and comforting.
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Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving as it helps the flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing your dining experience!
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Pair Wisely: To complement the rich flavors of the Chicken Scarpariello, consider pairing it with sides that offer freshness, like a crisp Italian salad.
Chicken Scarpariello Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Chicken Scarpariello?
For the best flavor and juiciness, I recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. They provide richness that enhances the overall dish, and their tenderness complements the other ingredients perfectly. If you prefer, boneless chicken can be used for easier eating, but may not offer the same depth of flavor.
How long can I store leftover Chicken Scarpariello?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing to maintain optimal freshness. For a quick and easy meal later in the week, this is a real lifesaver!
Can I freeze Chicken Scarpariello?
Absolutely! To freeze Chicken Scarpariello, cool it completely and transfer it to an airtight freezer container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stove with a splash of chicken stock or water to keep it moist.
How can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for mild Italian sausage instead of hot. You can also reduce or omit the red chili flakes for less heat. Many people find that it’s all about finding the right balance that suits your taste buds!
What should I do if my sauce is too runny?
If your sauce seems too thin, you can easily thicken it. After returning the chicken and sausage to the pan, allow it to simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. This will help reduce the liquid and concentrate the flavors. Another option is to mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it into the sauce, letting it simmer for a few more minutes until thickened.
Is Chicken Scarpariello suitable for my gluten-free diet?
Yes, Chicken Scarpariello can be made gluten-free! Just ensure that the chicken stock and any other prepared ingredients you use (like the wine) are gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels to be sure, and enjoy this hearty dish worry-free!
Savor Authentic Chicken Scarpariello in Just 50 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat, then sear the thighs until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes each side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the Italian sausage links and cook until they are browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
- Using the remaining oil in the pan, add the sliced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until they soften and turn fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the pickled cherry peppers along with their juice. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Pour in the dry white wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to reduce slightly, about 2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken stock, then return the chicken and sausage to the pan. Simmer on medium-low heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red chili flakes for that extra kick.
