Introduction to Chicken Scarpariello
What is Chicken Scarpariello and why is it loved?
Chicken Scarpariello is a delightful Italian-American dish that showcases the comforting flavors of braised chicken, sausage, and peppers. Originating from Southern Italy, it became a staple in many Italian-American households, winning hearts with its savory and slightly tangy glaze—making it a go-to meal for gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
What truly makes Chicken Scarpariello loved is its versatility. The combination of juicy, bone-in chicken thighs and flavorful sausage creates a rich, hearty dish that embraces both comfort food and the bold flavors of Italian cuisine. Plus, the addition of pickled cherry peppers adds the perfect zing, balancing the richness of the sausage and chicken. You can prepare this meal quickly—perfect for busy professionals—while still leaving your family and friends impressed.
It's also about simplicity! With just a handful of ingredients and a little time in the oven, you get a rewarding dish that tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. So if you're looking to impress or just want a delicious homemade meal, Chicken Scarpariello is undoubtedly the way to go. For more on finding delicious Italian dishes, check out Serious Eats.
Ingredients for Chicken Scarpariello
Essential ingredients for a delicious dish
When diving into the world of Chicken Scarpariello, there are a few key ingredients you absolutely cannot skip. Here's what you'll need:
- Chicken thighs: Bone-in and skin-on for maximum flavor (2 ½ pounds give or take).
- Italian sausage: Choose between sweet or hot varieties for that irresistible kick (aim for about 1 ½ pounds).
- Fresh vegetables: Onions and bell peppers add depth—don’t forget the flavor-enhancing garlic and sage!
- Pickled cherry peppers: These will give your dish that signature tang (8 cherry peppers and some of their liquid).
Each of these elements harmonizes beautifully to create a dish that's comfortingly rich and exciting.
Cooking essentials and tools you'll need
To bring your Chicken Scarpariello to life, here are some handy tools:
- A large sauté pan or Dutch oven ensures even cooking and great browning.
- Sharp knives for slicing your veggies and sausage.
- A wooden spoon for stirring—these are perfect for scraping up those delicious browned bits on the bottom of the pan.
With these ingredients and tools at your disposal, you’ll be well on your way to creating an unforgettable meal! If you're curious about tips for maximizing flavor or cooking techniques, check out Serious Eats.
Preparing Chicken Scarpariello
Chicken Scarpariello is a delightful dish that brings together braised chicken, spicy sausage, and vibrant peppers for a comforting meal. Let’s walk through how to prepare this savory dish with step-by-step guidance!
Preheat and prepare the chicken
First things first—adjust your oven rack to the center position and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, take about 2 ½ pounds of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and season them generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Seasoning the chicken beforehand enhances the dish’s overall flavor, ensuring that every bite is packed with goodness.
Searing the chicken for the best flavor
Next, grab a large sauté pan or Dutch oven—whichever you are most comfortable with—and heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add your seasoned chicken, skin side down. Avoid moving the chicken around; let it sear and develop a golden-brown, crispy skin for about 8 minutes. Flip the chicken and let the other side cook for about 3 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside. This step is crucial; that crispy skin is where much of the flavor comes from!
Cooking the sausage and sautéing vegetables
Now, it's time to add flavor layers. Without draining the pan, toss in 3 to 4 links of sweet or hot Italian sausage. Cook them until well browned on one side for about 1.5 minutes, then flip them to brown the other side. Remove the sausage and slice it into smaller pieces when cool.
Return the skillet to heat and add a medium onion and a large red bell pepper, both thinly sliced. Stir them, scraping the browned bits off the bottom, and cook until they soften—about 4 minutes. Then, add 2 tablespoons of finely minced fresh sage leaves and 6 cloves of thinly sliced garlic, stirring until fragrant.
Combining ingredients for maximum taste
Your next step is adding about 8 hot or sweet pickled cherry peppers, along with a splash (about ¼ cup) of the pickling liquid. This gives your Chicken Scarpariello that characteristic zing! Follow up by adding a cup of low-sodium chicken stock and 2 tablespoons of sugar to balance the flavors. Finally, toss in the pieces of sausage you sliced earlier and return the chicken to the pan, skin side up.
Braising the chicken to perfection
Now it’s time to braise! Transfer the pan to your preheated oven and let it cook for roughly 30 minutes. This braising process allows the chicken to absorb all those rich flavors while becoming tender and juicy. The end result will be a beautiful dish perfect for a cozy dinner. Serve it warm, spooning plenty of the aromatic sauce over the chicken and pairing it with crusty bread or your favorite side.
Enjoy your lovely Chicken Scarpariello! It's truly a crowd-pleaser and worth every bit of effort.
Variations on Chicken Scarpariello
Spicy Chicken Scarpariello
If you’re craving some heat, try making a Spicy Chicken Scarpariello. Simply switch out the sweet Italian sausage for hot Italian sausage. You can also toss in extra pickled cherry peppers or even a pinch of red pepper flakes. This fiery twist on the classic dish is perfect for those who love their meals with a kick!
Vegetarian Chicken Scarpariello
Craving the flavors of Chicken Scarpariello but want a meat-free option? No problem! Use plant-based sausage, like beyond sausage, to make this dish vegetarian. Additionally, you can substitute chicken thighs with hearty mushrooms or eggplant. This version is just as flavorful and satisfying, making it a great option for friends who follow a vegetarian diet.
By experimenting with these variations, you can enjoy the favorite flavors of Chicken Scarpariello while tailoring it to your personal taste! For more ideas, check out Serious Eats for additional cooking inspiration.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Scarpariello
Tips for Perfectly Browned Chicken Skin
Achieving that golden, crispy chicken skin is crucial for a delicious Chicken Scarpariello. Start by ensuring your chicken thighs are patted dry before seasoning. This simple step helps prevent steaming and encourages browning. Use a hot skillet and avoid overcrowding the pan—this allows each piece to sear evenly. If the skin isn’t crisping up, don’t rush it; letting the chicken cook undisturbed for those initial minutes is vital.
How to Avoid Overcooking the Sausage
To keep your sausage tender and full of flavor in Chicken Scarpariello, consider cooking it just until browned, about 3 minutes per side. Since it will continue to cook in the oven, taking it off the heat too soon ensures it doesn’t become tough. Additionally, slicing the sausage into larger pieces after browning allows for better flavor distribution without overcooking. For some great tips on selecting the best Italian sausage, check out this helpful guide on choosing sausage.
Serving suggestions for Chicken Scarpariello
Complementary side dishes
To elevate your Chicken Scarpariello, consider serving it with a few delightful sides. Creamy polenta or garlic mashed potatoes are fantastic options that absorb the savory sauce beautifully. A crisp, light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast. For a heartier touch, try roasted seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Creative plating ideas
Presentation matters, and a beautiful plate can transform your meal. Start by placing a generous portion of chicken and sausage at the center, then artfully spoon the vibrant peppers and sauce around it. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or sage leaves for that extra pop of color. Opt for rustic dishware to tie in with the homemade feel of Chicken Scarpariello, making each serving look as good as it tastes.
Need more inspiration? Check out this guide on plating techniques.
Time Breakdown for Chicken Scarpariello
Preparation Time
Getting ready to cook has never been easier! You’ll only need about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients for your Chicken Scarpariello. This includes seasoning your chicken and slicing up those flavorful peppers and onions.
Cooking Time
The true magic happens while you cook. Expect about 60 minutes of cooking time. This stage allows the chicken and sausage to develop rich flavors as they braise together, making every bite truly irresistible.
Total Time
In just 70 minutes, you can have a delicious Chicken Scarpariello ready to serve. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a weekend gathering!
For more cooking tips and ingredient choices, check out this guide on seasonal produce. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Chicken Scarpariello
Calories per serving
Each serving of Chicken Scarpariello brings approximately 480 calories. This hearty dish is packed with flavor, making it satisfying without weighing you down.
Protein content
You can expect a robust protein content of about 38 grams per serving. This makes it an excellent choice for maintaining muscle mass, especially after a busy day.
Sodium levels
With around 850 milligrams of sodium, it's important to balance this dish with lower-sodium options throughout the day, especially if you’re watching your intake. Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal!
For more detailed nutrition information, consider checking resources like the USDA’s FoodData Central.
FAQs about Chicken Scarpariello
Can I substitute the chicken thighs with another cut?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are traditionally used for their rich flavor and moisture, you can substitute them with bone-in breasts or even skinless chicken if you prefer a lighter option. Just remember that the cooking time might differ slightly, so keep an eye on them to ensure they're cooked through.
How do I make it less spicy?
If spicy food isn't your thing, you can easily tone it down! Instead of using hot Italian sausage, opt for milder sweet sausage. Additionally, you can reduce the number of pickled cherry peppers or choose sweet ones without the heat. This way, you'll get all the flavor without the kick!
Can I prepare Chicken Scarpariello in advance?
Yes, you can! Chicken Scarpariello actually benefits from being made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to enjoy, reheat it gently on the stove, and you'll have a delicious meal waiting for you.
For more tips on meal prepping and storage, check out this guide.
Conclusion on Chicken Scarpariello
Incorporating Chicken Scarpariello into your meal rotation ensures more than just a delicious dinner; it fosters connections and memories through the joy of homemade meals. Gather loved ones around the table, share stories, and savor the delightful interplay of flavors that this dish offers.
Final Thoughts on Enjoying Homemade Meals
Homemade meals, like Chicken Scarpariello, provide a comforting and fulfilling experience that often goes beyond taste. They create lasting memories and bring people together in a way that takeout simply can't replicate. Plus, knowing every ingredient adds a touch of love and care, making each bite even more special. So, grab your ingredients, invite friends over, and relish the process of cooking. You'll not only delight their taste buds but also nourish their spirits!
If you want a deeper dive into the benefits of homemade meals, check out this resource on cooking and connections. Happy cooking!
Chicken Scarpariello (Braised Chicken With Sausage and Peppers
Equipment
- Straight-sided sauté pan
- Dutch oven
Ingredients
- 2 ½ pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (6 to 8 thighs)
- Kosher salt to taste
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (15 ml)
- 3 to 4 links sweet or hot Italian sausage (about 1 ½ pounds; 700 g)
- 1 medium onion thinly sliced (about 6 ounces; 170 g)
- 1 large red bell pepper thinly sliced (about 6 ounces; 170 g)
- 2 tablespoons finely minced fresh sage leaves (about ¼ ounce; 8 g)
- 6 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- 8 hot or sweet pickled cherry peppers thinly sliced
- ¼ cup pickling liquid from the jar (60 ml)
- 1 cup dry white wine (240 ml)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock (homemade or store-bought; 240 ml)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (28 g)
Instructions
- Adjust oven rack to center position and preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Season chicken generously with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a 4- to 5-quart straight-sided sauté pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken, skin side down, and cook, without moving, until well browned and crisp, about 8 minutes total, lowering heat if pan starts to smoke excessively. Flip chicken and brown lightly on second side, about 3 minutes. Transfer chicken to a large plate and set aside.
- Return skillet to heat without draining it and add sausage. Cook until well browned on first side, about 1 ½ minutes, reducing heat if it starts smoking. Flip sausage and cook on second side until browned, about 1 ½ minutes longer. Remove pan from heat, transfer sausage to a cutting board, and cut each link into 3 to 4 slices.
- Return pan to heat, add onion and bell pepper, and cook, stirring and scraping up browned bits with a wooden spoon, until softened and starting to brown, about 4 minutes. Add sage and garlic, stir to combine, and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add pickled cherry peppers and their liquid, stirring and scraping up browned bits from bottom of pan with a wooden spoon. Add wine and cook until liquid is reduced by half, about 2 minutes. Add chicken stock and sugar, and stir to combine. Return sausage to pan, toss to combine, then return chicken pieces to pan skin side up, nestling them down among sauce, vegetables, and sausage.
- Transfer to oven and cook until chicken is crisp and tender, about 30 minutes. Serve immediately, spooning sauce, vegetables, and sausage around chicken pieces.
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