Linguini with Chicken Scampi: A Family Favorite Recipe
When it comes to delicious, satisfying meals that quickly become family favorites, this Linguini with Chicken Scampi is a standout choice. Its delightful blend of flavors and easy preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress. This dish combines tender, golden-brown chicken with a zesty garlic-lemon sauce, all served over perfectly cooked linguini and garnished with Parmesan cheese. Paired with a fresh tossed salad and crispy garlic bread, it’s a meal that will please everyone at the table. 🍽️✨
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup margarine, divided
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 8 ounces linguini
- 2-3 teaspoons prepared basil pesto (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken: In a large zip-top bag, beat the eggs until well mixed. Add the chicken pieces to the bag, ensuring each piece is coated with the egg mixture.
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Bread the Chicken: In a separate bowl, combine the bread crumbs with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Remove the chicken from the egg mixture and coat each piece with the bread crumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs adhere.
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Cook the Chicken: Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1/3 cup olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken pieces to the skillet. Sauté the chicken until it is golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a bowl. Keep warm.
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Prepare the Garlic-Lemon Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 1/2 cup margarine over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper. Mix well.
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Combine Chicken with Sauce: Return the chicken to the skillet with the garlic-lemon mixture. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce. Continue to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to absorb the sauce.
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Cook the Linguini: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguini and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and return the linguini to the pot.
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Finish the Pasta: Toss the hot linguini with 2 tablespoons margarine, allowing it to melt and coat the pasta. If desired, stir in 2-3 teaspoons of prepared basil pesto for an extra layer of flavor.
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Assemble the Dish: Spoon the garlic-lemon chicken mixture over the linguini, ensuring each serving gets a generous amount of chicken and sauce.
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the dish with shredded Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately with a side of tossed salad and garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 1194.8
- Fat: 54.2 grams
- Saturated Fat: 9.4 grams
- Cholesterol: 237.7 mg
- Sodium: 1548.1 mg
- Carbohydrates: 100.1 grams
- Fiber: 4.8 grams
- Sugar: 3.4 grams
- Protein: 73.1 grams
Enjoy this delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of chicken and pasta in a beautifully simple yet sophisticated way. Each bite is a testament to how delicious and satisfying home-cooked meals can be. 🍝🍋🧀
