This Easy Chicken Scarpariello is a tasty dish loaded with juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a kick of garlic! It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Making it is a breeze! Just sauté everything in one pan and let the flavors come together. I love how it fills the kitchen with such a yummy aroma—it’s hard to resist! 🍗💕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs give the best flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even chicken breasts, but the dish may be less juicy.
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing, but if you don’t have it, feel free to use canola oil or avocado oil for a similar effect. Both have high smoke points and will work just as well.
Bell Peppers: The recipe calls for red and green bell peppers for color and flavor. If those aren’t available, you can use yellow or orange peppers instead, or even roast some poblano peppers for a twist!
White Wine: If you prefer not to use wine, just substitute with more chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for acidity. This keeps the dish light and bright.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust these according to your heat preference. You can skip them entirely for a milder dish, or use fresh jalapeños if you like it spicier.
What’s the Best Way to Achieve Crispy Chicken Skin?
For perfectly crispy chicken skin, drying the chicken thighs is essential. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness! Once the skin is patted dry, season well with salt and pepper. Searing on medium-high heat allows the skin to render fat and become deliciously crispy.
- Heat your skillet before adding oil and chicken to prevent sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps the chicken brown evenly.
- Let it cook undisturbed before flipping; patience is key!
How Do I Know When the Chicken is Cooked Through?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer! Chicken thighs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. If you don’t have one, ensure the juices run clear when pierced near the bone, and the meat looks opaque.
Easy Chicken Scarpariello with Garlic and Peppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Vegetables and Sauce:
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced into strips
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to heat preference)
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30-35 minutes to cook. In total, you can enjoy this easy Chicken Scarpariello in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting that crispy skin! Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs, skin-side down. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook the other side for another 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onion and cook for about 3 minutes until it becomes softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell the wonderful aroma.
4. Add the Peppers:
Stir in the sliced bell peppers and continue cooking for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. This will add a delicious sweetness to the dish!
5. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth, and if you’re using it, the white wine. Add the red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes as well. Stir everything together so that the flavors can mix.
6. Return the Chicken:
Now, return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pan. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This will ensure that the chicken is fully cooked through and that the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Final Touches:
Once the chicken is cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F), taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve your Chicken Scarpariello hot, alongside crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or over pasta for a complete meal!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy Chicken Scarpariello! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Chicken Scarpariello
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts can be substituted, but keep in mind that they may cook faster. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they don’t dry out—about 15-20 minutes of simmering should suffice for boneless cuts.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute it with more chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for acidity. Both options will keep the flavor profile bright and delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or drying out the chicken.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! If you enjoy more heat, consider adding fresh sliced jalapeños or increasing the amount of red pepper flakes. You can also serve the dish with a hot sauce on the side for an extra kick!
