Why make this recipe
Chicken Scarpariello is a classic Italian-American dish that brings together tender chicken, flavorful sausage, and vibrant vegetables in a savory sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Its combination of flavors makes it memorable, and its hearty nature will satisfy any appetite. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for both beginner and experienced cooks.
How to make Chicken Scarpariello
Creating Chicken Scarpariello is a delightful journey that’s easily navigable with clear steps. Follow these instructions for a successful meal:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chicken thighs and drumsticks. Brown them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sausage pieces. Cook until browned.
- Add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine or chicken broth and white wine vinegar. Bring to a simmer.
- Return the browned chicken to the skillet.
- Cover and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
- ½ cup white wine or chicken broth
- ¼ cup white wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How to serve Chicken Scarpariello
Serve Chicken Scarpariello hot on a large platter, allowing guests to help themselves. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce or over a bed of rice or pasta for a complete meal. A fresh green salad on the side can balance the richness of this hearty dish.
How to store Chicken Scarpariello
To store leftovers, let the Chicken Scarpariello cool down to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will be good for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated thoroughly.
Tips to make Chicken Scarpariello
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in garlic, oregano, and olive oil for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance.
- You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for variation.
Variation
For a lighter version, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs and drumsticks. You can also replace white wine with additional chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option.
FAQs
1. Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time as it cooks faster than bone-in chicken.
2. Is Chicken Scarpariello spicy?
The spiciness comes from red pepper flakes, which can be adjusted based on your taste preference.
3. Can I freeze Chicken Scarpariello?
Yes, you can freeze it. Place cooled servings in freezer-safe containers. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
