Chicken Scarpariello Recipe
Chicken Scarpariello is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken thighs, flavorful sausage, and a tangy vinegar sauce. This Italian-American classic is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. With its vibrant flavors and comforting appeal, the Chicken Scarpariello recipe will surely impress your guests and elevate any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of just 50 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required! Prepare everything in a single skillet for an easy cooking experience.
- Bold Flavors: The combination of spicy sausage, sweet peppers, and tangy vinegar creates a mouthwatering dish that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Versatile Dish: Pair it with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce; it fits well with various sides.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for feeding family or friends; everyone will love this hearty meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your tools to streamline the process. Having everything ready will make following the Chicken Scarpariello Recipe easier.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet allows even cooking and browning, essential for building rich flavors in this dish.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cutting of vegetables and meat, making prep work quick and safe.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements help maintain the balance of flavors in your Chicken Scarpariello.
- Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a reliable surface for all chopping tasks.

Ingredients
For this Chicken Scarpariello recipe, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
For the Sausage
- ½ lb Italian sausage (sliced)
For the Peppers
- 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
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
How to Make Chicken Scarpariello Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
- Start by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance their flavor as they cook.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet.
- Sear until golden brown on both sides; about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage
- In the same skillet, add sliced Italian sausage.
- Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Peppers
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté briefly until fragrant.
- Stir in sliced bell peppers and hot cherry peppers. Cook until softened.
Step 5: Deglaze with Vinegar
- Pour in white apple vinegar to deglaze the pan, scraping any browned bits off the bottom.
- Allow it to simmer until reduced by half.
Step 6: Build the Sauce
- Add chicken broth, cherry pepper vinegar, lemon juice, and oregano to the mixture. Stir well.
Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce
- Return seared chicken thighs to the skillet.
- Cover and simmer on low heat until chicken is tender; about 20 minutes.
Step 8: Thicken Sauce Before Serving
- Let sauce thicken slightly before serving. This will enhance its richness.
Step 9: Serve!
- Spoon extra sauce and peppers over each piece of chicken when plating for maximum flavor. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Scarpariello!
How to Serve Chicken Scarpariello Recipe
Serving Chicken Scarpariello is all about enhancing its bold flavors and inviting presentation. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, making it perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
With Fresh Herbs
- Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Basil: Add fresh basil leaves for a fragrant touch that complements the dish.
On a Bed of Greens
- Arugula: Serve the chicken over a bed of arugula for a peppery bite that balances the richness.
- Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach can be a nutritious base that soaks up the sauce.
Accompanied by Crusty Bread
- Baguette: Slice a fresh baguette to soak up the delicious sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.
- Ciabatta: Rustic ciabatta bread adds texture and can be used as an excellent vehicle for the dish’s flavors.
With Rice or Couscous
- Steamed Rice: Serve with fluffy steamed rice to absorb the tangy sauce perfectly.
- Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous adds an interesting texture while complementing the dish’s flavors.
How to Perfect Chicken Scarpariello Recipe
To make your Chicken Scarpariello truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips. Each step can elevate your dish to restaurant-quality goodness.
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken thighs and quality sausage enhance flavor significantly.
- Don’t Rush Searing: Take your time when searing the chicken; achieving a golden crust adds depth to the overall taste.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Customize heat by adding more or fewer hot cherry peppers according to your preference.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to rest after cooking helps meld flavors and makes serving easier.
- Garnish Generously: A good garnish of fresh herbs makes your dish visually appealing and adds freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scarpariello Recipe
Pairing side dishes with Chicken Scarpariello can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes flavored with garlic provide comfort and complement the savory chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized brings out their natural sweetness and adds color.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus offers a crisp contrast that balances the dish’s richness.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil will add brightness and freshness on the side.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette enhances healthiness while pairing nicely with flavors.
- Polenta: Creamy polenta serves as an excellent base for soaking up sauce while adding a hearty element to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken Scarpariello, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish from good to great.
- Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavor. Always season generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Overcrowding the pan: If you add too many ingredients at once, they won’t sear properly. Cook in batches if needed for better browning.
- Ignoring the simmering time: Rushing the simmering step can result in tough chicken. Allow enough time for the chicken to become tender in the sauce.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Low-quality chicken or sausage will affect the final taste. Always choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for best results.
- Skipping deglazing: Neglecting this step means missing out on flavor. Use white apple vinegar to scrape up those tasty bits stuck in the pan.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Chicken Scarpariello Recipe
- Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Chicken Scarpariello Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Chicken Scarpariello.
What is Chicken Scarpariello Recipe?
Chicken Scarpariello Recipe is a flavorful Italian-American dish featuring chicken thighs, spicy sausage, and a tangy vinegar sauce.
Can I use other meats in Chicken Scarpariello Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute turkey or beef for chicken if desired.
How spicy is Chicken Scarpariello Recipe?
The spice level depends on the type of sausage and cherry peppers used. Adjust these ingredients based on your heat preference.
Can I make Chicken Scarpariello Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish tastes even better when made ahead as flavors develop over time.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Scarpariello is a comforting dish that brings bold flavors to your table. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different proteins or vegetables. Try this recipe soon and enjoy a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Chicken Scarpariello
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of our Chicken Scarpariello Recipe, a delightful Italian-American dish that brings together succulent chicken thighs and spicy sausage in a tangy sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or gatherings with friends, this one-pan meal is not only quick to prepare—ready in under an hour—but also requires minimal cleanup. With its bold ingredients, including sweet bell peppers and zesty cherry pepper vinegar, every bite is sure to impress. Easy to customize, you can pair it with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce. Elevate your weeknight meals with this comforting and satisfying dish!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- 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 chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the seasoned chicken until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook sliced sausage until browned.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, then stir in bell peppers and hot cherry peppers until softened.
- Deglaze the pan with white apple vinegar and simmer until reduced by half.
- Stir in chicken broth, cherry pepper vinegar, lemon juice, and oregano; mix well.
- Return chicken to the skillet and cover; simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes or until tender.
- Let sauce thicken slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
