Name: Chicken Scarpariello | Italian Chicken with Peppers & Sausage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 12 ounces italian sausage (sweet or hot), sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced; 5 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup dry white wine; ½ cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Chicken Scarpariello is a heartwarming dish that brings together juicy chicken thighs, savory sausage, and vibrant bell peppers all simmered to perfection. This Italian-American classic stands out with its rich flavors and simplicity, making it a perfect choice for busy weekdays or special family dinners. The combination of textures—the crispy chicken skin and tender vegetables—creates a delightful eating experience that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Chicken Scarpariello | Italian Chicken with Peppers & Sausage

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My first encounter with Chicken Scarpariello happened on a chilly evening while visiting a local Italian restaurant. The aroma wafting from the kitchen beckoned me, promising a hearty meal that would warm my insides. Once I tasted the dish, I knew I had to recreate it at home. This easy chicken recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also proves to be budget-friendly and a true crowd-pleaser. I’m excited to share my version of this classic dish, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Chicken Scarpariello | Italian Chicken with Peppers & Sausage
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Chicken Scarpariello | Italian Chicken with Peppers & Sausage

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a flavorful dish on the table in no time.
Irresistible Flavor: The rich, savory notes from chicken and sausage mingled with sweet bell peppers and fragrant garlic create a mouthwatering experience.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The colorful peppers create an inviting presentation that will impress your guests.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prep for busy lunchboxes.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets by checking your sausage brand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: The skin adds flavor and moisture, while the bone ensures tenderness. You can use boneless thighs if preferred.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning, adjust these to your personal preferences.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken. Extra virgin olive oil can bring additional flavor.
12 ounces Italian sausage (sweet or hot), sliced: Adds a wonderful, hearty taste. Choose your favorite variety, or use turkey sausage for a lighter option.
1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds sweetness and color. You can substitute with green bell pepper for a different flavor.
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced: Complements the red pepper beautifully. Feel free to mix in orange or another color for variety.
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced: Provides an earthy taste and meaty texture. Cremini or button mushrooms work well.
5 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for depth of flavor. Roasting the garlic first can add a sweet twist!
½ cup dry white wine: Enhances the sauce with acidity. A splash of chicken broth can substitute if you prefer to skip the wine.
½ cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor. Use low-sodium broth to manage salt levels.
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar: Brightens up the dish. Apple cider vinegar can be used as an alternative.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Traditional Italian herb that adds aromatic depth. Fresh oregano can be a lovely substitute.
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a little heat, adjust the amount to your liking.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh touch and colorful finish to your dish.

How to Make Chicken Scarpariello | Italian Chicken with Peppers & Sausage

Sear the Chicken: Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry and seasoning them generously with salt and black pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken skin-side down in the hot skillet, searing until it’s deeply golden and crispy, which should take about 6-8 minutes. After flipping, cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until browned on the other side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Brown the Sausage: In the same skillet, add your sliced Italian sausage. Cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and join the chicken on the plate.
Cook the Vegetables: Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and lightly caramelized, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Build the Sauce: Pour in the ½ cup of dry white wine, allowing it to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Next, stir in the ½ cup of chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and optional ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Mix everything together evenly.
Simmer: Return the chicken and sausage back into the skillet. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let everything simmer for 20-25 minutes. This will give time for the chicken to cook through and all the flavors to meld beautifully. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating.
Finish & Serve: Once cooked, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish your Chicken Scarpariello with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot for a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze Chicken Scarpariello for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Be aware that the texture may change slightly, so stirring in a splash of chicken broth will help refresh the sauce’s consistency.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing the chicken; this will prevent them from browning properly.
If you have time, allowing the chicken to marinate for an hour with seasonings will deepen the flavors.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness; this helps avoid overcooking.
Experiment with vegetables! Zucchini or carrots can be tasty additions to this dish.
Consider making a double batch; it’s perfect for leftovers!

Chicken Scarpariello is a dish that thrives on being shared. Invite your family around the dinner table for a warm, wholesome experience filled with great flavors and good company. Don’t hesitate to experiment with veggies or spices to suit your taste. This simple yet tasty meal will become a favorite at your house! Enjoy each bite of this delightful Italian comfort food, and don’t forget to share your creations!

Recipe FAQs

What can I serve with Chicken Scarpariello?

Pair this dish with a side of crusty bread, polenta, or a fresh garden salad. Bread is excellent for soaking up the delicious sauce!

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! This recipe works beautifully with pork or even turkey. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I make this dish spicy?

To up the spice level, add more crushed red pepper flakes or use hot sausage instead of sweet sausage. You can also include sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Can I prepare Chicken Scarpariello ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish a day in advance, and the flavors will deepen even more. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

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