7 Delicious Scampi Recipes: Shrimp and Chicken Variations to Savor

Shrimp Scampi and Chicken Scampi offer a delightful twist on classic Italian dishes that bring together the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special gathering, these recipes are simple enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough to wow your guests. Let’s get cooking and elevate your mealtime with these tasty seafood and chicken creations!

Creamy Chicken Scampi with Spinach

Creamy Chicken Scampi with Spinach is a sensational dish that combines the rich flavors of creamy sauce with tender chicken and vibrant spinach. The creamy texture perfectly complements the sautéed chicken, while the spinach adds a pop of freshness. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to make, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The taste is a delightful balance of savory and creamy, with just the right amount of seasoning to elevate the chicken. You'll love how quickly this dish comes together, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
2. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in heavy cream and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
4. Add fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through before serving.

Classic Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp scampi is a delightful dish that brings together succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter, and a hint of lemon to create an irresistible flavor combination. It’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the fresh taste of the shrimp to shine through, while the garlic and butter add a luxurious touch.

This dish is not only tasty but also visually appealing, with its vibrant colors and garnishes. Whether served over pasta or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce, shrimp scampi is sure to impress everyone at your table. Let’s dive into making this classic recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Cooked pasta or bread for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
2. Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
3. Pour in the lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Stir to combine and cook for another minute.
4. Serve the shrimp scampi hot over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Pasta Primavera with Shrimp Scampi Twist

This Pasta Primavera with a Shrimp Scampi twist is a delightful dish that marries fresh veggies with succulent shrimp, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. The combination of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, making it a crowd-pleaser while still being simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

The vibrant colors and textures from the mixed vegetables not only make this dish visually appealing but also add a healthy touch. You'll find that it's easy to whip up, making it perfect for both busy evenings and special gatherings. Let's gather our ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add the Vegetables: Stir in diced bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until veggies are tender yet still crisp.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, squeezing lemon juice over the mixture. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is coated in the garlic oil.
5. Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and enjoy your delicious Pasta Primavera with a Shrimp Scampi twist!

Spicy Shrimp Scampi with Red Pepper Flakes

Spicy shrimp scampi is a delightful take on the classic dish, combining succulent shrimp with a punch of flavor from red pepper flakes. This recipe is a fantastic choice for those who love a little heat in their meals. It’s easy to whip up, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.

The sweet and spicy notes blend beautifully with the garlic and butter, creating a savory sauce that perfectly coats your pasta. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends while keeping things simple in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup white wine
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt and the spaghetti or linguine. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the noodles with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Plate the dish, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy your spicy shrimp scampi!

Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce for Chicken Scampi

This Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce is the star of Chicken Scampi, bringing a vibrant and zesty flavor that perfectly complements the tender chicken. With its simple combination of fresh garlic, bright lemon juice, and creamy butter, this sauce is rich yet refreshing, making it a delicious choice for any meal.

Making this sauce is easy and quick, allowing you to whip up a delightful dish in no time. The savory garlic pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon, creating a well-balanced sauce that elevates the entire dish. Whether you're enjoying a cozy dinner or entertaining guests, this sauce will impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
2. Stir in the lemon juice and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
4. Finish by stirring in the chopped parsley before serving over cooked chicken scampi.

Zesty Lemon Chicken Scampi

Zesty Lemon Chicken Scampi is a delightful twist on traditional scampi, offering a refreshing flavor that’s both light and satisfying. The zesty lemon brightens the dish, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering. With its simple preparation and bold flavors, it’s sure to impress without causing stress in the kitchen.

This dish combines tender chicken pieces with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a buttery, lemony sauce that’s just the right amount of tangy. Fresh herbs add a pop of color and flavor, making each bite a delicious experience. It’s an easy recipe that packs a punch, making it a new favorite in your meal rotation.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt. Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add Liquids: Pour in the white wine and chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and zest.
5. Finish the Sauce: Reduce heat to low and add butter, stirring until melted and combined. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce.
6. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and additional lemon zest if desired. Enjoy your Zesty Lemon Chicken Scampi!

Herb-Infused Shrimp Scampi Variation

Shrimp scampi is a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a flavorful sauce and pasta. This herb-infused variation brings a fresh twist to the classic recipe, elevating the taste with fragrant herbs like parsley and thyme. It’s surprisingly simple to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The bright notes of lemon and the richness of garlic pair beautifully with the tender shrimp, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re serving it for family or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.
5. Mix with Pasta: Stir in the cooked pasta, parsley, thyme, lemon zest, and juice. Toss everything together and cook for an additional minute to ensure everything is heated through.
6. Serve: Plate the shrimp scampi, garnishing with extra herbs and lemon slices if desired. Enjoy your herb-infused delight!