Name: Chicken Scarpariello
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup white vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, chopped; 1/2 cup water; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and sliced; 1/4 cup capers, drained; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Chicken Scarpariello is a flavorful and satisfying Italian-American dish that brings together tender chicken, zesty vinegar, savory garlic, and aromatic herbs. It’s a perfect meal for any night of the week, combining bold flavors with a comforting texture. Whether you’re craving something hearty or just looking to spice up your regular dinner routine, Chicken Scarpariello is a go-to option that delivers deliciously every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is all about the balance of flavors. The chicken is perfectly seasoned and browned, offering a crispy exterior and juicy interior. The sauce, made with garlic, vinegar, chicken broth, and a mix of olives and capers, provides a savory and tangy punch that enhances the chicken’s natural flavor. Plus, it’s simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress and leave everyone satisfied.

Ingredients

4 bone-in, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup white vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped
1/2 cup water
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup capers, drained
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the garlic and onion, cooking for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and vinegar, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Stir in the water, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, skin-side down. Add the olives and capers, then cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes. Stir the sauce to combine, then pour it over the chicken.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Kcal per serving: 310 kcal

Variations

Chicken thighs: If you prefer dark meat, you can substitute chicken breasts with bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs might take a bit longer to cook through.
Add some heat: To give this dish a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or some sliced fresh chili peppers.
Vegetarian option: For a meatless version, replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini, and follow the same cooking process.
Different olives: If you don’t have green olives, black olives can be a good alternative, giving the dish a slightly different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may intensify the next day, making it even more delicious!
Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes or until hot.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken for Chicken Scarpariello?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs, but the cooking time may be shorter, so be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked.

2. Can I make Chicken Scarpariello ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of cooking the chicken. Store the chicken and sauce separately in the fridge and finish cooking it when you’re ready to serve.

3. What’s the best way to check if the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

4. Can I freeze Chicken Scarpariello?

While it’s possible to freeze the dish, the texture of the chicken may change when thawed. If freezing, store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

5. Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar, though it will alter the flavor profile of the dish.

6. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you’d like a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes or whisk in a little cornstarch mixed with water to create a slurry and add it to the sauce.

7. What can I serve with Chicken Scarpariello?

This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side of sautéed spinach or a simple salad can complement it as well.

8. Is Chicken Scarpariello spicy?

No, it’s not spicy by default, but you can add red pepper flakes to the sauce to give it a spicy kick if desired.

9. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried thyme and rosemary?

Absolutely! Fresh thyme and rosemary will give the dish an even more vibrant flavor. Use about 3-4 sprigs of each and remove them before serving.

10. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe for a slow cooker. Sear the chicken in a skillet, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Conclusion

Chicken Scarpariello is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines savory, tangy, and slightly sweet notes for a truly delicious meal. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a satisfying dinner on the table in under an hour. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this dish is sure to be a hit!