Chicken Scarpariello Recipe

Are you in the mood for a chicken dish that has it all – flavor, warmth, and a dash of Italian tradition? Well, let me introduce you to Chicken Scarpariello. This beloved Italian-American recipe will make your taste buds sing and transform your kitchen into a cozy haven. With a blend of spices, tender chicken, and a subtle kick from peppers, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Let’s dive in and discover how to create this culinary delight.

Chicken Scarpariello

---

• Author: Mark Bennett
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A flavorful Italian-American chicken dish with a blend of spices, tender chicken, and a kick from peppers.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 pounds of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium onions, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1–2 fresh Italian hot peppers, sliced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the chicken pieces, skin side down. Let them sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes on each side.
2. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and add the sliced onions and garlic. Sauté them for about 3 to 5 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers and hot peppers to the pan and continue to sauté everything for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar. Give it a good stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Sprinkle in the oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the vegetables.
6. Bring it to a gentle simmer and then cover the skillet, allowing it to cook for about 30 minutes.
7. Check the chicken for doneness. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If it’s not quite there, cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.
8. Remove your Chicken Scarpariello from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for flavor.

Notes

For a healthier option, use skinless chicken and vegetable broth. Serve with polenta or a side salad.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Ingredients

To whip up a stunning Chicken Scarpariello, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 pounds of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium onions, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1-2 fresh Italian hot peppers (like jalapeños or pepperoncini), sliced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Substitutions:

• Chicken thighs can be replaced with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
• If you prefer a milder dish, exclude the hot peppers or substitute them with sweet bell peppers.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

Timing

Understanding the timing can significantly enhance your cooking experience. Here’s how it breaks down:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Cooking doesn’t have to eat into your entire evening. While the chicken simmers on the stove, you can tidy up or prepare your side dishes, making it a more manageable experience.

How to Make Chicken Scarpariello translates to “Chicken in the style of the shoemakers” in English.

Step 1: Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the chicken pieces, skin side down. Let them sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes on each side. This step adds incredible flavor by rendering the chicken’s fat.

Step 2: After the chicken is nicely browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and add the sliced onions and garlic. Sauté them for about 3 to 5 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the sliced bell peppers and hot peppers to the pan and continue to sauté everything for an additional 5 minutes. This blend creates a wonderful medley of flavors.

Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar. Give it a good stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits are packed with flavor, and you don’t want to waste them!

Step 5: Sprinkle in the oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the vegetables. Bring it to a gentle simmer and then cover the skillet, allowing it to cook for about 30 minutes.

Step 6: After 30 minutes, check the chicken for doneness. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If it’s not quite there, cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Step 7: Once cooked, remove your Chicken Scarpariello from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Healthier Alternatives if needed

Looking for a healthier spin on Chicken Scarpariello? Here are some easy swaps:

• Use skinless chicken to reduce fat content.
• Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make it vegetarian.
• Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to cut down on salt intake.
• For a low-carb version, serve over sautéed zucchini noodles instead of pasta.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Chicken Scarpariello, creativity is key. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Serve it on a bed of creamy polenta or mashed potatoes.
• Pair with a refreshing salad, like a tangy arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette.
• Don’t forget a crusty piece of Italian bread for mopping up those delicious juices!
• As for beverages, a herbal iced tea or a homemade fruit spritzer complements the dish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best cooks have their off days. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Not browning the chicken enough: It adds depth to flavor; don’t rush this step!
• Overcrowding the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning and cooking.
• Not letting the chicken rest: This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat juicy.
• Skipping the seasoning: Salt and pepper are your friends; season generously to enhance flavors.

Storage Tips

Chicken Scarpariello can be a fantastic make-ahead dish! Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Chicken Scarpariello in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender.

Is Chicken Scarpariello spicy?

It can be! The heat level depends on the type and number of hot peppers you use. For a milder dish, simply reduce the amount of spicy peppers or leave them out altogether.

What sides pair well with Chicken Scarpariello?

Sides that balance the dish’s richness include sautéed greens, garlic bread, or even a simple pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs.

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Certainly! Boneless chicken cooks faster, so be mindful to adjust cooking times accordingly. It should be cooked through in about 25-30 minutes.

How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Feel free to toss in some carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just add them along with the peppers for a wholesome boost of flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Chicken Scarpariello isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth, tradition, and flavor to your table. It’s easy to prepare, deliciously satisfying, and versatile enough for any occasion. Now that you know how to craft this delightful dish, why not give it a shot? Your taste buds will thank you! And while you’re at it, check out other Italian-inspired recipes to keep your kitchen adventures going. Happy cooking!