If there’s one dish that embodies bold Italian-American flavors while staying homey and satisfying, it’s Chicken Scarpariello. Originating from Italian-American kitchens in New York, this dish delivers tender, juicy chicken simmered with a medley of vibrant peppers, zesty cherry peppers, and a touch of heat, all brought together with garlic, wine, and lemon. The name “scarpariello” translates roughly to “shoemaker style,” and while the origin story is charmingly humble, the flavor is anything but.
I first tried this dish at a friend’s dinner party, and I was immediately captivated by its combination of crispy-seared chicken, bright peppers, and a sauce that balances tangy, savory, and slightly spicy notes. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something easy yet impressive, or for entertaining guests with minimal fuss. With just one skillet, a handful of fresh ingredients, and simple seasonings, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right at home.
Whether served over pasta, rice, or simply with a crusty slice of bread to soak up the sauce, Chicken Scarpariello is a crowd-pleaser that showcases the magic of Italian-inspired comfort food.
Recipe Overview
Chicken Scarpariello is a rustic, skillet-cooked dish featuring golden-brown chicken thighs and drumsticks simmered with garlic, white wine, lemon juice, and a vibrant mix of bell and cherry peppers. Aromatic oregano, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkling of fresh parsley elevate this easy-to-make, flavor-packed meal. The result is juicy, tender chicken with a bright, slightly spicy sauce—a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s everything you need for this bold and colorful dish:
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup dry white wine
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup cherry peppers, sliced (seeds removed)
- ¼ cup sweet bell peppers, sliced
- ¼ cup green bell peppers, sliced
- ¼ cup red bell peppers, sliced
- ¼ cup onion, sliced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season and Sear the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs and drumsticks dry, then season generously with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; searing in batches ensures a nice golden crust.
2. Build the Sauce
Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté until fragrant, roughly 30 seconds to 1 minute. Deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in chicken broth and lemon juice, which create a bright, savory base for the peppers and chicken.
3. Add Peppers and Seasonings
Add the cherry peppers, sweet, green, and red bell peppers, sliced onion, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling the pieces among the vegetables.
Pro Tip: Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat. Cherry peppers add mild heat naturally, so balance according to taste.
4. Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer until cooked through and the peppers are tender, about 20–25 minutes. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
5. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for color and freshness. Serve hot, spooning the flavorful sauce and peppers over the chicken.
Serving Ideas: Pair with roasted potatoes, creamy polenta, pasta, or simply serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Chicken Options
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken gives the most flavor.
- Boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be used for a quicker, lighter option—just reduce simmering time to avoid drying out the meat.
2. Spice Adjustments
- Reduce red pepper flakes for mild heat or add extra cherry peppers for more kick.
- For an even spicier version, try adding sliced hot cherry peppers or a dash of cayenne.
3. Wine Substitutes
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, replace white wine with extra chicken broth and a teaspoon of white wine vinegar or lemon juice for acidity.
4. Serving Variations
- Serve over spaghetti or linguine for a pasta-based meal.
- Pair with creamy polenta or mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner.
- Add olives or capers for extra briny flavor and Mediterranean flair.
5. Make-Ahead Tips
- The sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Reheat and simmer the chicken in the sauce just before serving for convenience.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently over low heat.
Serving Ideas
- Serve over pasta, rice, or polenta for a hearty meal.
- Accompany with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced dinner.
- Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the tangy, peppery sauce.
Chicken Scarpariello is a delightful balance of tender, golden chicken, vibrant peppers, and a tangy, slightly spicy sauce that bursts with flavor. Its simplicity and bold taste make it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining, impressing everyone at the table without requiring complicated techniques.
With just a few fresh ingredients, a skillet, and a handful of seasonings, you can create an Italian-American classic that’s full of color, aroma, and comfort. Whether paired with pasta, potatoes, or enjoyed on its own, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
FAQs
1. Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes! Boneless thighs or breasts work well. Reduce cooking time to prevent drying out.
2. Can I make this dish ahead?
Absolutely. Prepare the sauce in advance and reheat with chicken before serving.
3. How spicy is it?
Cherry peppers and red pepper flakes provide moderate heat, adjustable to taste.
4. What wine works best?
Dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the flavors.
5. Can I serve it with pasta?
Yes, it’s excellent over spaghetti, linguine, or creamy polenta.
Chicken Scarpariello is a vibrant Italian-American dish with golden seared chicken, bell and cherry peppers, garlic, wine, and lemon. Easy, flavorful, and perfect for weeknights.
