Chicken Scarpariello Recipe

Chicken Scarpariello Recipe is a delightful dish that brings the rich flavors of Italian-American cuisine to your table. This one-pan wonder features juicy chicken thighs, spicy sausage, and vibrant peppers, all simmered in a tangy vinegar sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress with its bold tastes and comforting nature.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Chicken Scarpariello Recipe comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet, allowing you to spend more time savoring your meal.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of chicken, sausage, and peppers creates a mouthwatering dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or alongside crusty bread for a complete meal that can adapt to any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the savory and spicy flavors, making it perfect for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Chicken Scarpariello Recipe efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good-quality skillet allows for even cooking and browning of the chicken and sausage.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and meats.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing ingredients, improving prep time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs chicken thighs

For the Sausage

• ½ lb Italian sausage (sliced)

For the Peppers

• 2 bell peppers (sliced)
• ½ cup hot cherry peppers

For the Sauce

• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• ½ cup white apple vinegar
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp cherry pepper vinegar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

How to Make Chicken Scarpariello Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

1. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the seasoned chicken until golden brown on both sides.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Sausage

1. In the same skillet, add sliced Italian sausage.
2. Cook until browned and heated through.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Peppers

1. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté briefly.
2. Stir in sliced bell peppers and hot cherry peppers.

Step 5: Deglaze with Vinegar

1. Pour in white apple vinegar to deglaze the pan.
2. Simmer until reduced to enhance flavor.

Step 6: Prepare the Sauce

1. Add chicken broth, cherry pepper vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well to combine all ingredients in the skillet.

Step 7: Return Chicken to Skillet

1. Return seared chicken thighs back into the skillet.
2. Simmer everything together until chicken is tender.

Step 8: Thicken Sauce

1. Let the sauce thicken slightly before serving.

Serving Steps

Spoon extra sauce and peppers over each piece of chicken for maximum flavor joy!

Enjoy your flavorful Chicken Scarpariello as a main course that everyone will love!

How to Serve Chicken Scarpariello Recipe

Chicken Scarpariello is a delicious, hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve slices of fresh, crusty bread on the side to soak up the delightful sauce and enjoy every bite.

Over Rice

• Spoon the chicken and sauce over a bed of fluffy rice for a filling meal that balances the flavors perfectly.

Paired with Polenta

• Creamy polenta serves as a rich base that complements the bold flavors of Chicken Scarpariello beautifully.

On a Bed of Greens

• For a lighter option, serve the chicken over mixed greens or arugula, drizzled with olive oil and vinegar for added freshness.

With Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• The creamy texture of garlic mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with the tangy sauce, making every bite comforting.

How to Perfect Chicken Scarpariello Recipe

To make your Chicken Scarpariello truly stand out, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose high-quality chicken thighs – Opt for organic or free-range chicken for enhanced flavor and juiciness.

• Sear properly – Ensure you sear the chicken on medium-high heat until golden brown; this adds depth to the dish’s flavor.

• Adjust spice levels – If you prefer less heat, use fewer hot cherry peppers or omit them altogether.

• Let it simmer – Allowing the dish to simmer helps meld all the flavors together, resulting in a more flavorful sauce.

• Garnish wisely – Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can brighten up the dish when sprinkled on top before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scarpariello Recipe

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Scarpariello enhances its flavors and creates a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition to your plate.

2. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce on your plate.

3. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious element and contrasts nicely with the rich chicken dish.

4. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes provides a light and healthy contrast.

5. Baked Zucchini Fries – These crispy zucchini fries offer a crunchy texture that pairs well with the tender chicken.

6. Cauliflower Mash – A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash is creamy and complements the savory sauce beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Scarpariello, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can enhance the dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can leave your dish bland. Always season well with salt and pepper before cooking.

• Not deglazing: Ignoring the deglazing step can result in missing out on rich flavors. Use the white apple vinegar to scrape up any browned bits from the skillet for a more flavorful sauce.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken thighs too long can make them dry. Monitor the cook time closely and remove them as soon as they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

• Using low-quality ingredients: Low-quality sausage or peppers can dilute the flavors. Opt for fresh ingredients and quality sausage for the best results.

• Not letting the sauce thicken: Skipping the thickening step may leave your sauce watery. Allow it to simmer until it reaches your desired consistency for a richer taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Chicken Scarpariello Recipe

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chicken Scarpariello Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this Chicken Scarpariello Recipe:

What is Chicken Scarpariello?

Chicken Scarpariello is a hearty Italian-American dish featuring chicken thighs, sausage, peppers, and a tangy vinegar sauce. It’s comforting and packed with flavor.

Can I customize the spices in Chicken Scarpariello?

Yes! Feel free to add different spices or herbs like thyme or basil according to your taste preferences for added depth of flavor.

How do I make this Chicken Scarpariello Recipe spicier?

To increase spice levels, use more hot cherry peppers or add red pepper flakes during cooking. Adjust according to your heat tolerance!

What side dishes pair well with Chicken Scarpariello?

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, pasta, or a fresh salad. The options are endless!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep an eye on cooking time as they may cook faster than thighs.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Scarpariello is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it easily by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice levels. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions—give it a try today!