Chicken Scarpariello Skillet Flavorful Family Meal

by Abigail on November 3, 2024

Looking for a family meal that packs a punch? My Chicken Scarpariello Skillet is here to rescue your weeknight dinners! This dish combines juicy chicken with vibrant peppers and savory herbs to create a delightful flavor explosion. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just a few, this recipe is simple and satisfying. Dive into this post to discover the ingredients and steps you need for a tasty dinner!

$- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless - 3 tablespoons olive oil - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning - 1 red bell pepper, sliced - 1 green bell pepper, sliced - 1 medium onion, sliced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste) - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar - 1 tablespoon honey - 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Use organic chicken for tenderness. Look for colorful, firm bell peppers. They add sweetness and crunch. Select good-quality olive oil for depth. A robust chicken broth enhances the dish's taste. Always prefer raw, whole garlic over pre-minced for a punchier flavor. Fresh parsley adds a bright touch, so pick it last. You can swap chicken thighs for boneless chicken breasts if you prefer. For a lighter dish, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. If you don’t have Kalamata olives, green olives work well too. For a sweeter note, honey can be replaced with maple syrup. If you want more heat, add fresh jalapeños or switch to a spicier pepper. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Heat the Oil: Begin by heating 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This oil will give your chicken a nice, crispy texture. 2. Season the Chicken: While the oil heats, season 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Use 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning. This adds great flavor. 3. Sear the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, add the chicken. Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You want it golden brown. When done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. 4. Cook the Veggies: In the same skillet, add sliced red and green bell peppers, and 1 medium sliced onion. Sauté these for 4-5 minutes until they soften. The colors will make your dish vibrant. 5. Add Garlic and Spice: Next, add 3 minced cloves of garlic and 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes. This will bring out a lovely aroma. 6. Combine Everything: Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Stir well to mix everything. 7. Simmer: Bring the skillet mixture to a simmer. Cover it and cook for about 15 minutes. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. 8. Finish with Olives: After the chicken is done, add 1/2 cup of halved Kalamata olives. Stir gently and let it cook for 2-3 more minutes to warm the olives. - For Searing: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If it’s not hot, the chicken will steam instead of sear. - For Veggies: Cut the bell peppers and onion into similar sizes. This helps them cook evenly. - For Garlic: Stir it in quickly. Garlic cooks fast and can burn easily, which turns it bitter. - For Simmering: Keep the lid on during simmering. This traps steam and helps cook the chicken evenly. - Skipping the Sear: Don’t skip searing the chicken. This adds flavor and texture. - Overcrowding the Pan: If your skillet is too crowded, the chicken will not brown well. Cook in batches if needed. - Not Adjusting Seasoning: Always taste before serving. You might need more salt or spices. - Rushing the Simmer: Make sure to simmer long enough. This allows flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through. To boost flavor, use fresh herbs. Fresh parsley adds brightness. Crushed red pepper gives heat. You can adjust the amount based on your taste. Adding honey balances the spice with sweetness. A splash of apple cider vinegar adds tang. This mix creates a depth of flavor that makes Chicken Scarpariello shine. For juicy chicken, choose thighs. They stay moist and tender. Sear them well for a golden crust. This step locks in flavor. Always check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F for safety. Let the chicken rest after cooking. This helps keep it juicy inside. Serve Chicken Scarpariello with crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping in the sauce. You can also pair it with fluffy couscous or rice. These sides soak up the flavors well. For a veggie boost, add a fresh salad. A light green salad complements the dish nicely. Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a special touch. Pro Tips Use Bone-In Chicken: For even more flavor, consider using bone-in chicken thighs. They tend to be juicier and can add depth to the dish. Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to your preference. If you enjoy a bit of heat, don't hesitate to add more! Fresh Herbs: Enhance the freshness of the dish by adding a handful of fresh basil or oregano just before serving for an aromatic finish. Chill for Flavor: This dish tastes even better the next day! If you can, make it ahead of time and let it sit in the fridge overnight to let the flavors meld. {{image_2}} To spice things up, add more heat! Use extra crushed red pepper flakes. You can also add sliced jalapeños for a fresh kick. This version brings warmth and flavor together, perfect for those who love heat. For a veggie boost, add more bell peppers or zucchini. You can even toss in some spinach at the end. This makes the dish colorful and healthy. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in more nutrients without losing the hearty feel of Chicken Scarpariello. To keep this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free chicken broth. You can also serve the chicken over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. This change keeps the meal low-carb while still satisfying. Enjoy all the flavor without the extra carbs! To store your Chicken Scarpariello Skillet leftovers, let them cool. Place the chicken and veggies in an airtight container. Make sure to seal it tight. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty for later meals. Always label your container with the date to track freshness. Reheating your Chicken Scarpariello is easy. You can use a skillet or microwave. For the skillet, add a splash of chicken broth. Heat on low until warm. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. If using a microwave, place the dish in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through. If you want to freeze your Chicken Scarpariello, do it before reheating. Cool it completely and place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it gently using the methods above. Enjoy a quick and easy meal anytime! Chicken Scarpariello is a tasty Italian dish. It features chicken, peppers, and olives. The dish has a sweet and tangy flavor. The chicken cooks in a rich broth with spices. You get a mix of savory and slightly sweet notes. This meal is perfect for family dinners. It’s easy to make and full of flavor. Yes, you can use chicken breasts. They will cook faster than thighs. Make sure to check for doneness early. Chicken breasts can dry out, so watch them closely. If you prefer, you can cut them into smaller pieces. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. To spice it up, add more red pepper flakes. You can also include jalapeños for extra heat. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano add great flavor too. For a twist, try a splash of lemon juice. This will add brightness to the dish. Experiment with your favorite spices for a personal touch. This blog post detailed how to make Chicken Scarpariello. We covered the key ingredients, cooking steps, and common pitfalls. I shared tips for flavor and many variations you can try. You learned how to store leftovers and answers to frequent questions. Embrace your creativity in the kitchen. With these insights, you can cook with confidence. Enjoy your flavorful journey with Chicken Scarpariello!$

Why I Love This Recipe

Bold Flavors: This dish combines the savory depth of chicken with the sweet and spicy notes of bell peppers and crushed red pepper flakes, creating an irresistible flavor profile.
One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in a single skillet means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal with family or friends.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add your favorite vegetables to make this dish uniquely yours.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Chicken Scarpariello Skillet fits the bill beautifully.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients with Measurements

– 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless

– 3 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

– 1 red bell pepper, sliced

– 1 green bell pepper, sliced

– 1 medium onion, sliced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

– 1 cup chicken broth

– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

– 1 tablespoon honey

– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

High-Quality Ingredient Recommendations

Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Use organic chicken for tenderness. Look for colorful, firm bell peppers. They add sweetness and crunch. Select good-quality olive oil for depth. A robust chicken broth enhances the dish’s taste. Always prefer raw, whole garlic over pre-minced for a punchier flavor. Fresh parsley adds a bright touch, so pick it last.

Optional Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap chicken thighs for boneless chicken breasts if you prefer. For a lighter dish, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. If you don’t have Kalamata olives, green olives work well too. For a sweeter note, honey can be replaced with maple syrup. If you want more heat, add fresh jalapeños or switch to a spicier pepper.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Detailed Cooking Process

1. Heat the Oil: Begin by heating 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This oil will give your chicken a nice, crispy texture.

2. Season the Chicken: While the oil heats, season 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Use 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning. This adds great flavor.

3. Sear the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, add the chicken. Sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You want it golden brown. When done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

4. Cook the Veggies: In the same skillet, add sliced red and green bell peppers, and 1 medium sliced onion. Sauté these for 4-5 minutes until they soften. The colors will make your dish vibrant.

5. Add Garlic and Spice: Next, add 3 minced cloves of garlic and 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes. This will bring out a lovely aroma.

6. Combine Everything: Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Stir well to mix everything.

7. Simmer: Bring the skillet mixture to a simmer. Cover it and cook for about 15 minutes. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

8. Finish with Olives: After the chicken is done, add 1/2 cup of halved Kalamata olives. Stir gently and let it cook for 2-3 more minutes to warm the olives.

Tips for Each Cooking Step

– For Searing: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If it’s not hot, the chicken will steam instead of sear.

– For Veggies: Cut the bell peppers and onion into similar sizes. This helps them cook evenly.

– For Garlic: Stir it in quickly. Garlic cooks fast and can burn easily, which turns it bitter.

– For Simmering: Keep the lid on during simmering. This traps steam and helps cook the chicken evenly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Skipping the Sear: Don’t skip searing the chicken. This adds flavor and texture.

– Overcrowding the Pan: If your skillet is too crowded, the chicken will not brown well. Cook in batches if needed.

– Not Adjusting Seasoning: Always taste before serving. You might need more salt or spices.

– Rushing the Simmer: Make sure to simmer long enough. This allows flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Flavor Enhancement

To boost flavor, use fresh herbs. Fresh parsley adds brightness. Crushed red pepper gives heat. You can adjust the amount based on your taste. Adding honey balances the spice with sweetness. A splash of apple cider vinegar adds tang. This mix creates a depth of flavor that makes Chicken Scarpariello shine.

How to Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken

For juicy chicken, choose thighs. They stay moist and tender. Sear them well for a golden crust. This step locks in flavor. Always check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F for safety. Let the chicken rest after cooking. This helps keep it juicy inside.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Serve Chicken Scarpariello with crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping in the sauce. You can also pair it with fluffy couscous or rice. These sides soak up the flavors well. For a veggie boost, add a fresh salad. A light green salad complements the dish nicely. Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a special touch.

Pro Tips

Use Bone-In Chicken: For even more flavor, consider using bone-in chicken thighs. They tend to be juicier and can add depth to the dish.
Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to your preference. If you enjoy a bit of heat, don’t hesitate to add more!
Fresh Herbs: Enhance the freshness of the dish by adding a handful of fresh basil or oregano just before serving for an aromatic finish.
Chill for Flavor: This dish tastes even better the next day! If you can, make it ahead of time and let it sit in the fridge overnight to let the flavors meld.

Variations

Spicy Chicken Scarpariello

To spice things up, add more heat! Use extra crushed red pepper flakes. You can also add sliced jalapeños for a fresh kick. This version brings warmth and flavor together, perfect for those who love heat.

Vegetable-Heavy Adaptations

For a veggie boost, add more bell peppers or zucchini. You can even toss in some spinach at the end. This makes the dish colorful and healthy. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in more nutrients without losing the hearty feel of Chicken Scarpariello.

Gluten-Free and Low-Carb Options

To keep this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free chicken broth. You can also serve the chicken over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. This change keeps the meal low-carb while still satisfying. Enjoy all the flavor without the extra carbs!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers Properly

To store your Chicken Scarpariello Skillet leftovers, let them cool. Place the chicken and veggies in an airtight container. Make sure to seal it tight. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty for later meals. Always label your container with the date to track freshness.

Reheating Techniques

Reheating your Chicken Scarpariello is easy. You can use a skillet or microwave. For the skillet, add a splash of chicken broth. Heat on low until warm. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. If using a microwave, place the dish in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.

Freezing Guidelines and Tips

If you want to freeze your Chicken Scarpariello, do it before reheating. Cool it completely and place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it gently using the methods above. Enjoy a quick and easy meal anytime!

FAQs

What is Chicken Scarpariello?

Chicken Scarpariello is a tasty Italian dish. It features chicken, peppers, and olives. The dish has a sweet and tangy flavor. The chicken cooks in a rich broth with spices. You get a mix of savory and slightly sweet notes. This meal is perfect for family dinners. It’s easy to make and full of flavor.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts. They will cook faster than thighs. Make sure to check for doneness early. Chicken breasts can dry out, so watch them closely. If you prefer, you can cut them into smaller pieces. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.

How do I spice it up further?

To spice it up, add more red pepper flakes. You can also include jalapeños for extra heat. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano add great flavor too. For a twist, try a splash of lemon juice. This will add brightness to the dish. Experiment with your favorite spices for a personal touch.

This blog post detailed how to make Chicken Scarpariello. We covered the key ingredients, cooking steps, and common pitfalls. I shared tips for flavor and many variations you can try. You learned how to store leftovers and answers to frequent questions.

Embrace your creativity in the kitchen. With these insights, you can cook with confidence. Enjoy your flavorful journey with Chicken Scarpariell

Chicken Scarpariello Skillet

A flavorful skillet dish featuring chicken thighs, bell peppers, and olives, perfect for a hearty meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
0.5 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 red bell pepper sliced
1 green bell pepper sliced
1 medium onion sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
0.5 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
to taste fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs to the skillet and sear for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the sliced red and green bell peppers, and onion. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they are softened.
Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, then pour in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and honey, stirring to combine.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Add in the Kalamata olives and stir gently. Allow cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the olives.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Notes

Serve garnished with fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes. Pair with crusty bread or over couscous/rice.

Keyword chicken, dinner, Italian, skillet