Name: Chicken Scarpariello
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs; 2 spicy sausages; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth; 1/4 cup white vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Chicken Scarpariello, or "Street Vendor Chicken," is a dish that brings a delightful fusion of comforting flavors right to your table. I recall the first time I tried this vibrant meal at a local market, where the aroma of sautéed spices and hearty chicken filled the air. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends. What truly makes Chicken Scarpariello special is its robust combination of flavors, infused with a hint of spice from the sausages and a tangy bite from the vinegar.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Chicken Scarpariello deserves a spot on your dinner table for several reasons. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, yet it packs a flavor punch that feels special enough for gatherings. With only a few affordable ingredients, you can whip up a dish that is both satisfying and full of character. One bite of the tender chicken thighs, complemented by the savory sausage and colorful bell peppers, transports you to the lively streets where this dish originated.

"It’s like a taste of the streets! The blend of spicy sausage and tangy flavors is irresistible. Perfect for a family dinner!"

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Let’s dive into the cooking process! This recipe is straightforward, ensuring that you can enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:

Start by browning the chicken thighs in olive oil.
Remove the chicken and brown the sausages.
Add garlic and bell peppers, cooking until soft.
Deglaze the pan, then add vinegar and return the chicken to simmer.
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a vibrant touch.

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:

4 chicken thighs
2 spicy sausages
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
1/4 cup white vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Feel free to substitute the sausages with turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option, and don’t hesitate to swap in different colored bell peppers for a fun twist on presentation.

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Cooking Steps

Now for the fun part — let’s cook!

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Add them to the pan, cooking until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
In the same pan, add the sausages and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes.
Toss in the minced garlic and sliced bell peppers, sautéing for around 5 minutes until softened.
Deglaze the pan with the white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom.
Stir in the vinegar, and return the chicken to the pan. Let everything simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Best Way to Serve

Chicken Scarpariello is best served hot, straight from the pan. Pair it with a side of crusty Italian bread to mop up the delicious sauce or serve it over a bed of polenta for a satisfying meal. Pairing it with a simple side salad adds a refreshing contrast, making it a well-rounded dish.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, storing Chicken Scarpariello is easy. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring it reaches a safe temperature.

Pro Chef Tips

For an even deeper flavor profile, consider marinating the chicken thighs in a mixture of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking. Also, feel free to adjust the level of spice by using mild sausages or adding red pepper flakes according to your taste.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You could add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or why not toss in some olives for a Mediterranean twist? If you’re looking to make it a bit healthier, you can replace chicken thighs with chicken breasts, though be cautious as they may require less cooking time to avoid dryness.

Your Questions Answered

What’s the prep time for Chicken Scarpariello?
Expect to spend about 15 minutes prepping your ingredients, with around 30 minutes for cooking, making this a roughly 45-minute meal.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken breasts can dry out more quickly, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months for a deliciously easy meal later.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and sausage. Instead, use firm tofu or additional vegetables, and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.

Chicken Scarpariello is more than just a meal; it’s an experience full of rich flavors and vibrant colors. It’s a perfect reminder that sometimes, the simplest ingredients can create remarkable dishes.