There’s something incredibly comforting about a one-pan meal that brings together bold flavors and hearty ingredients, especially after a long day. My journey into making Chicken Scarpariello started when I craved a dish that could warm my soul while also satisfying my taste buds. The vibrant combination of juicy chicken thighs, spicy Italian sausage, and sweet bell peppers simmered in a tangy white wine sauce creates a dish that feels like a restaurant quality meal right in your kitchen.
As the rich aroma fills your home, it’s hard not to feel a sense of excitement. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the tender meat and the slight crunch of sautéed peppers, all enveloped in a sauce perfect for soaking up with a piece of crusty bread. It’s the ideal comfort food that’s not only low-carb but also surprisingly easy to whip up, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing your guests without the stress. Join me in transforming everyday ingredients into a hearty Chicken Scarpariello that promises to be a staple in your home-cooked repertoire!
Why is Chicken Scarpariello a Must-Try?
Simplicity and Flavor: This dish shines for how easily it comes together, needing just one pan and minimal prep.
Hearty and Satisfying: It’s packed with juicy chicken, spicy sausage, and vibrant peppers, making each bite a flavor explosion.
Perfectly Balanced: The tang of white wine and pickled cherry peppers perfectly complements the richness of the meats.
Low-Carb Options: Ideal for those watching their carbs, this recipe delivers comfort without sacrificing your diet.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time, as it tastes even better the next day, ideal for busy weeknights.
Impressive Presentation: Serve it to guests and watch them be wowed by its restaurant-level appeal!
Chicken Scarpariello Ingredients
• Get ready to savor this Italian-American classic!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Thighs – Rich in flavor and juicy; substitute with boneless chicken for quicker cooking, but bone-in adds depth.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to taste.
For the Sauté
- Vegetable Oil – Ideal for searing; can replace with olive oil for a hint of extra flavor.
- Hot Italian Sausage – Adds spicy richness; swap for mild sausage to tame the heat.
- Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; yellow or white onion works brilliantly.
- Red Bell Pepper – Delivers sweetness and color; other bell peppers can be substituted as desired.
- Garlic – The aromatic base for flavor; increase quantity for a stronger garlic punch.
For the Sauce
- Pickled Cherry Peppers – Contributes tanginess and spice; substitute with sweet peppers for less heat.
- Pickling Juice – Enhances the sauce’s tang; can omit, but it adds delightful depth.
- Dry White Wine – Brightens the dish; Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc recommended for best results.
- Chicken Stock – Adds a flavorful base; use low-sodium to keep salt levels in check.
For the Finish
- Fresh Parsley – A touch of garnish for freshness and color.
- Red Chili Flakes – Optional, but great for an extra kick if you love some heat!
How to Make Chicken Scarpariello
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Season and Sear: Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
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Brown the Sausage: In the same skillet, add the hot Italian sausage links. Brown them for about 3-4 minutes, then remove and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add diced onion and red bell pepper to the remaining oil in the skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until they soften, then stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
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Incorporate Peppers: Beautifully mix in the pickled cherry peppers and a splash of their pickling juice. Stir for 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.
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Deglaze and Reduce: Pour in the dry white wine, ensuring to scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Let it reduce slightly, cooking for about 3 minutes.
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Add the Stock: Pour in chicken stock, stirring well. Bring to a gentle simmer and return the seared chicken and sausage to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
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Simmer It Down: Cover and let simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
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Garnish and Serve: Once done, sprinkle fresh parsley and a pinch of red chili flakes on top before serving.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread to soak up every drop of the delicious sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chicken Scarpariello Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own by trying out these exciting variations!
- Boneless Chicken: Switch to boneless chicken thighs or breasts to cut down on cooking time while maintaining tenderness.
- Mild Sausage: Swap hot Italian sausage for mild sausage to keep the heat at bay, perfect for a family-friendly meal.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken and sausage with a mix of hearty mushrooms and jackfruit for a delicious vegetarian twist.
- Zesty Citrus: Add a splash of lemon or lime juice at the end for a refreshing citrus boost that brightens the dish beautifully.
- Herb Explosion: Experiment with different fresh herbs like thyme or basil to elevate the flavor profile. Simply add them during the sauté stage.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the red chili flakes or add sliced jalapeños for those who crave an extra level of spice.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a rich, creamy sauce that transforms the dish.
- Colorful Veggies: Enhance nutrition and flavor by adding a variety of colorful vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or olives into the mix.
Expert Tips for Chicken Scarpariello
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Resting the Chicken: Allow the chicken thighs to rest after searing. This keeps them juicy and prevents dryness during cooking.
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Flavor Meld Time: Let the Chicken Scarpariello sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Reduced Sodium Option: Use low-sodium chicken stock to control the salt level. This adjustment keeps your dish savory without overwhelming it with sodium.
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Cook with Care: Avoid overcrowding the pan while searing the chicken and sausage, as this can result in steaming instead of browning. Proper browning enhances the dish’s flavor.
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Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition without increasing carbs.
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Storage Tips: Chicken Scarpariello develops an even richer taste when stored overnight in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep enthusiasts!
Storage Tips for Chicken Scarpariello
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Scarpariello in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the dish’s taste.
Freezer: You can freeze Chicken Scarpariello for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water if the sauce thickens too much.
Serving Suggestions: As an option, consider warming it in the microwave, but for the best texture, stovetop reheating is recommended.
Make Ahead Options
Chicken Scarpariello is a fantastic choice for meal prep, as it actually tastes even better when allowed to sit. You can sear the chicken and sausage up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate them, and then continue with the sautéing and sauce-making steps just before serving. If you want to take it a step further, chop your vegetables (onion, bell peppers, and garlic) and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, when you’re ready to cook, you can quickly sauté and simmer everything together. Just be sure to warm the reserved chicken and sausage gently to retain their moisture and avoid overcooking. Enjoy a hearty Chicken Scarpariello without the hassle on a busy weeknight!
What to Serve with Chicken Scarpariello?
Bring your meal to life by pairing this hearty dish with delectable accompaniments that enhance each flavorful bite.
- Cauliflower Rice: Light and fluffy, cauliflower rice absorbs the delicious sauce, making every spoonful a delight.
- Italian Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, tomatoes, and olives balances the richness of Chicken Scarpariello, adding a zesty crunch to your meal.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the savory sauce, crusty bread turns your dinner into a complete Italian experience.
- Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these potatoes contrast beautifully with the tender chicken and spicy sausage.
- Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans toss in a splash of lemon juice, adding a bright note that complements the dish’s bold flavors.
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio enhances the meal, reflecting the white wine used in the cooking and elevating the overall dining experience.
- Lemon Sorbet: To cleanse your palate after the meal, a light lemon sorbet offers a refreshing finish with just the right amount of sweetness.
Chicken Scarpariello Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for Chicken Scarpariello?
I absolutely recommend using bone-in chicken thighs for the best flavor and juiciness. However, if you’re in a hurry, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can also work well—they just cook faster, so keep an eye on them!
How should I store leftover Chicken Scarpariello?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to enjoy it later, freezing is an option too! Just make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container, and it will last for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze Chicken Scarpariello? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze Chicken Scarpariello, allow the dish to cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s sealed tightly to avoid freezer burn. Label and date the container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed.
Are there any common issues I might encounter while making Chicken Scarpariello?
One common issue is the sauce becoming too thick. If this happens, don’t worry! Just add a little chicken stock or water while simmering to thin it out. Also, if the chicken isn’t browning properly, ensure your pan is hot enough before adding it—this helps achieve that golden, flavorful sear.
Is Chicken Scarpariello suitable for special diets or allergies?
Definitely! This dish is low-carb, making it a great option for those watching their carbohydrate intake. However, if you have any allergies, be cautious with the Italian sausage as it may contain allergens like gluten or dairy, depending on the brand. You can opt for turkey sausage or a homemade version to cater to different dietary needs.
What if I can’t find pickled cherry peppers?
If pickled cherry peppers are hard to find, you can substitute them with banana peppers or even sweet bell peppers for less heat. Just remember to adjust the amount of pickling juice to maintain that tangy flavor in the dish!
Bold Chicken Scarpariello: A Hearty Italian Comfort Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the hot Italian sausage links. Brown them for about 3-4 minutes, then remove and set aside.
- Add diced onion and red bell pepper to the remaining oil in the skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened, then stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Mix in the pickled cherry peppers and a splash of their pickling juice. Stir for 2-3 minutes to incorporate flavors.
- Pour in the dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Let it reduce slightly for about 3 minutes.
- Pour in chicken stock, stirring well. Bring to a gentle simmer and return the seared chicken and sausage to the skillet, nestling into the sauce.
- Cover and let simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
- Once done, sprinkle fresh parsley and a pinch of red chili flakes on top before serving.