Hearty, zesty, and just the right amount of spicy, Chicken Scarpariello is a rustic Italian-American dish that brings serious flavor to the table. Featuring tender chicken, sweet Italian sausage, tangy vinegar, and peppers, it’s a one-skillet wonder that layers savory goodness with every bite. Perfect for casual dinners or hearty Sunday feasts, this bold, briny classic is comfort food with attitude.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Packed with layers of bold, tangy, and savory flavors
One-skillet meal means less cleanup and more convenience
Perfect with pasta, roasted potatoes, or crusty bread
Customizable spice level to suit your heat preference
Ideal for both cozy nights and dinner parties
Ingredients for Chicken Scarpariello
Below is the list of the required ingredients:
Bone-in chicken thighs: These are juicy and flavorful, perfect for absorbing the savory sauce.
Italian sausage: Adds a rich, spicy kick. You can choose sweet or hot, depending on your preference.
Olive oil: Essential for browning the chicken and sausage, giving a lovely depth of flavor.
Onion: Diced onions provide a sweet base that enhances the overall taste.
Garlic: Minced garlic brings an aromatic punch that elevates the dish.
Red pepper flakes: A little heat goes a long way. Adjust to your liking for a spicier dish.
Chicken broth: This adds moisture and richness to the sauce, making it irresistible.
White wine: A splash of wine deglazes the pan and adds a layer of complexity to the flavor.
Apple cider vinegar: This brightens the dish and balances the richness of the meat.
Fresh herbs (rosemary and thyme): These herbs infuse the dish with a fragrant, earthy aroma.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley is a lovely garnish that adds a pop of color and freshness.
Lemon wedges: Serve these on the side for a zesty finish that brightens each bite.
For those looking to mix things up, consider substituting chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option. You can find the exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Chicken Scarpariello
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering Chicken Scarpariello. Each step builds on the last, layering flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Follow along, and soon you’ll be serving up a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place them skin-side down in the skillet. This step is crucial; browning the chicken creates a rich, flavorful crust that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown, then flip and brown the other side. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In the same skillet, toss in the Italian sausage pieces. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they’re nicely browned. This not only adds depth to the dish but also infuses the oil with savory flavors. Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside with the chicken. Don’t worry about the bits stuck to the pan; they’ll add even more flavor later!
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Now, it’s time to build the aromatic base. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. The sweet smell of onions cooking is simply irresistible. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant. This is where the magic begins, as the garlic and spices mingle, creating a mouthwatering aroma.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan
Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. This step is essential; it lifts all those flavorful bits stuck to the pan and incorporates them into the sauce. Allow the wine to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced. The alcohol cooks off, leaving behind a rich flavor that enhances the dish.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Next, add the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, rosemary, thyme, and the browned chicken and sausage back into the skillet. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the flavors meld together, creating a savory sauce that will envelop the chicken.
Step 6: Simmer and Cook
Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 30-35 minutes. This slow cooking process tenderizes the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
Finally, uncover the skillet and let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. The result? A rich, savory sauce that clings to the chicken, ready to be served.
Tips for Success
Always brown the chicken and sausage well; it adds depth to the flavor.
Don’t rush the simmering process; it’s key for tender chicken.
Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
Use fresh herbs whenever possible for the best flavor.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Equipment Needed
Large skillet or Dutch oven: Essential for browning and simmering. A heavy-bottomed pot works too.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and scraping the pan.
Meat thermometer: Optional, but great for ensuring chicken is cooked through.
Cutting board and knife: For chopping vegetables and herbs.
Variations of Chicken Scarpariello
Spicy Chicken Scarpariello: Add more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken and sausage with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini, using vegetable broth instead.
Herb-Infused: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil for a unique flavor profile.
Slow Cooker Adaptation: Brown the chicken and sausage, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off approach.
Gluten-Free Option: Ensure the chicken broth and any other packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Scarpariello
Serve with crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Pair with a side salad: A simple arugula or mixed greens salad adds freshness.
Complement with white wine: A chilled Pinot Grigio enhances the meal beautifully.
Garnish with lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens each bite.
FAQs about Chicken Scarpariello
What is Chicken Scarpariello?
Chicken Scarpariello is a flavorful Italian dish that features tender chicken thighs and Italian sausage, all simmered in a savory sauce with herbs and spices. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute bone-in chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just be mindful to adjust the cooking time, as boneless chicken cooks faster.
How can I make Chicken Scarpariello spicier?
If you love heat, simply add more red pepper flakes or toss in some diced jalapeños during the sautéing process. This will give your Chicken Scarpariello an extra kick!
What sides pair well with Chicken Scarpariello?
For a complete meal, serve Chicken Scarpariello with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, a fresh side salad, or even over a bed of pasta or rice for a hearty option.
Can I make Chicken Scarpariello ahead of time?
Yes! This dish actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Chicken Scarpariello is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment. The rich aromas that fill your kitchen, the laughter shared around the table, and the satisfaction of serving a dish that warms the heart are what make this recipe special. Each bite is a celebration of flavors, a reminder of the joy that comes from home-cooked meals. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, Chicken Scarpariello brings people together, making every occasion feel a little more festive. So roll up your sleeves and enjoy the delicious journey this dish offers!
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet, skin-side down. Brown the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the Italian sausage pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside with the chicken.
Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
Add the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, rosemary, thyme, and the browned chicken and sausage back into the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Uncover and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
For a spicier version, add more red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño during the onion sauté.
Substitute the chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
