Chicken Scarpariello Recipe
Chicken Scarpariello is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Italian-American cuisine to your table. This Chicken Scarpariello Recipe features juicy chicken thighs, spicy sausage, and sweet peppers, all enveloped in a tangy vinegar sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it delivers bold comfort in under an hour.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Get dinner on the table in just 50 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required since everything cooks in one skillet.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and peppers creates a rich, savory taste that will impress your guests.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Crowd Pleaser: This recipe serves four, making it ideal for family meals or entertaining friends.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Chicken Scarpariello Recipe efficiently, having the right tools is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for even cooking and easy stirring of ingredients.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and precise chopping of vegetables and meat.

Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Sausage and Peppers
- ½ lb Italian sausage (sliced)
- 2 bell peppers (sliced)
- ½ cup hot cherry peppers
For the Sauce
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ cup white apple vinegar
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp cherry pepper vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp oregano
How to Make Chicken Scarpariello Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
- Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs.
- Sear until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook Sausage and Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add sliced Italian sausage.
- Cook until browned, then add minced garlic.
- Sauté briefly until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Stir in sliced bell peppers and hot cherry peppers.
Step 4: Deglaze and Add Sauce Ingredients
- Pour in white apple vinegar to deglaze the pan; scrape up browned bits from the bottom.
- Allow it to simmer until reduced by half.
- Stir in chicken broth, cherry pepper vinegar, lemon juice, and oregano.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet.
- Simmer everything together until the chicken is tender (about 20 minutes).
Step 6: Thicken Sauce & Serve
- Let the sauce thicken slightly before serving.
- Spoon extra sauce and peppers over each piece of chicken for maximum flavor.
This Chicken Scarpariello Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household! Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish packed with flavor!
How to Serve Chicken Scarpariello Recipe
Chicken Scarpariello is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it right enhances its rich flavors and makes for a memorable meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions.
With Crusty Bread
- Sourdough or Baguette: Serve with slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Over Rice
- White or Brown Rice: Spoon the chicken and sauce over fluffy rice for a hearty meal that’s satisfying and filling.
On a Bed of Polenta
- Creamy Polenta: The creamy texture of polenta complements the bold flavors of Chicken Scarpariello beautifully.
With Pasta
- Penne or Rigatoni: Toss cooked pasta in the sauce for an Italian twist, creating a comforting pasta dish.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Parsley or Basil: Garnish with fresh herbs to add brightness and enhance the flavor profile of the dish.
How to Perfect Chicken Scarpariello Recipe
To elevate your Chicken Scarpariello, consider these simple tips. Each one will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.
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Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality chicken thighs and sausages for the best taste.
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Sear Properly: Ensure you sear the chicken until golden brown; this adds depth to the overall flavor.
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Balance Flavors: Adjust vinegar and spices according to your taste preferences for a perfect balance of tanginess and heat.
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Let it Simmer: Allow the chicken to simmer long enough so it absorbs all the delicious flavors from the sauce.
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Thicken Sauce Wisely: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it reduce longer on low heat before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scarpariello Recipe
Pairing side dishes with Chicken Scarpariello can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this flavorful dish well.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base that pairs perfectly with the dish’s bold flavors.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender add color and nutrition, balancing out the richness of Chicken Scarpariello.
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Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce and a tangy dressing, providing freshness alongside your main course.
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and crunch, making it a healthy side option that complements well.
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Fried Zucchini Planks: Crispy fried zucchini planks serve as a delightful contrast to the tender chicken while adding more veggie goodness.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings a touch of sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory elements of Chicken Scarpariello.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make your Chicken Scarpariello Recipe perfect, here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Bold seasoning: Forgetting to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you season generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Skipping the sear: Not searing the chicken can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Always take the time to sear until golden brown for better taste.
- Overcooking sausage: Cooking sausage too long can make it tough. Add it just after the chicken is browned to keep it juicy.
- Ignoring deglazing: Skipping deglazing can lead to a less flavorful sauce. Use white apple vinegar to scrape up those tasty bits from the skillet.
- Rushing the simmer: Not allowing enough time for simmering can prevent flavors from melding. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly for a richer taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Chicken Scarpariello will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chicken Scarpariello Recipe
- Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chicken Scarpariello Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Chicken Scarpariello Recipe.
What is Chicken Scarpariello?
Chicken Scarpariello is an Italian-American dish featuring tender chicken thighs, spicy sausage, and bell peppers in a tangy vinegar sauce.
How spicy is Chicken Scarpariello?
The spice level can vary; you can adjust the amount of hot cherry peppers based on your preference for heat.
Can I use other meats in this Chicken Scarpariello Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with turkey or beef if you prefer different proteins.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and reheat before serving, enhancing its flavors as it sits.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Scarpariello Recipe offers bold flavors and comforting vibes, making it a delightful choice for family dinners. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste!
Chicken Scarpariello
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Italian-American cuisine with this easy Chicken Scarpariello Recipe. This dish combines tender chicken thighs, spicy sausage, and sweet bell peppers, all simmered in a tangy vinegar sauce that’s sure to please your palate. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, this one-pan meal is not only quick to prepare but also delivers a flavor explosion that pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. Enjoy this comforting dish in just under an hour!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- ½ lb Italian sausage (sliced)
- 2 bell peppers (sliced)
- ½ cup hot cherry peppers
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ cup white apple vinegar
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp cherry pepper vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides (5-7 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sliced sausage and cook until browned; then add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute.
- Stir in sliced bell peppers and hot cherry peppers.
- Deglaze the pan with white apple vinegar, simmering until reduced by half.
- Add chicken broth, cherry pepper vinegar, lemon juice, and oregano; return the chicken to the skillet and simmer until tender (about 20 minutes).
- Let the sauce thicken slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
