CREAMY CHICKEN SCAMPI – OLIVE GARDEN COPYCAT

Ingredients:

• 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 1 lb fettuccine pasta (or spaghetti)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 2 tbsp butter
• 5-6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
2. Cook the Pasta:
   While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine (or pasta of choice) according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
3. Make the Scampi Sauce:
   In the same skillet you cooked the chicken in, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
4. Add Liquids:
   Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Add the Cheeses:
   Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese, continuing to stir until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes creamy. Add the lemon juice and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
6. Combine with Pasta:
   Slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Serve:
   Add the sliced chicken on top of the pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley and basil, if desired. Serve hot!

Tips:

• For extra flavor, you can also add a tablespoon of white wine to the sauce.
• To make it even creamier, you could add a little more heavy cream or even cream cheese.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though it may not be as rich and creamy.

This Creamy Chicken Scampi is a perfect comforting meal that replicates the rich, garlicky goodness of Olive Garden’s dish. Enjoy your homemade version!