Chicken Scarpariello

Introduction

Chicken Scarpariello delivers a mouthwatering symphony of tangy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors that make it a standout Italian-American classic. This hearty dish, known as “shoemaker’s chicken,” marries juicy chicken pieces, sweet bell peppers, zesty sausage, and a vibrant vinegar-wine sauce, creating a meal that truly satisfies. With its bold fusion of flavors and ease of preparation, this recipe is perfect for those who want a restaurant-quality dish at home—ideal for entertaining or a comforting weeknight dinner.

The Secrets Behind Flavorful Chicken Scarpariello

What makes Chicken Scarpariello exceptional is its balance of sweetness from the peppers, a gentle heat from pickled peppers or chilies, and the unmistakable tang from a splash of vinegar and white wine. This recipe is as much about texture—crispy-edged chicken, tender sausages, and juicy vegetables—as it is about flavor. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings family and friends back for seconds every time.

Ingredient Prep Made Simple

Efficient prep is the key to this dish’s success. Uniformly chopping your bell peppers, garlic, and onions ensures even cooking and a beautiful presentation. A vegetable chopper streamlines the process dramatically, so consider using the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper for quick, precise cuts. For juicier, evenly cooked chicken, cutting your bone-in thighs into large chunks is recommended and best done on a sturdy Bamboo Cutting Board Set.

Sautéing and Building Bold Flavors

Start by browning the chicken and sausage to develop flavor. A large, oven-safe skillet like the Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet guarantees an even sear and keeps the meat tender inside. As you remove the meats, sauté your aromatics—peppers, onions, and garlic—until they are softened and fragrant, infusing the base with layers of deliciousness.

Braising to Tender Perfection

Deglazing with white wine lifts all the tasty brown bits from the skillet, enriching the sauce. Add chicken stock and a healthy splash of vinegar for that signature Scarpariello zing. A reliable instant-read thermometer like the Alpha Grillers Meat Thermometer Digital, Instant Read ensures your chicken reaches juicy perfection without overcooking.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Serve Chicken Scarpariello hot with crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce, or spoon it over creamy polenta for a comforting twist. Any leftovers store beautifully in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, making delicious lunches or quick dinners later in the week.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This dish serves 4 generous portions. Each serving contains approximately 420–480 calories, thanks to the hearty protein, flavorful sausage, and vibrant veggies. Enjoy this robust dish as part of a balanced meal, savoring each complex, satisfying bite.

Chicken Scarpariello (Recap)

Combining crisp chicken, savory sausage, bell peppers, and a piquant vinegar-wine sauce, Chicken Scarpariello is a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. With a few essential gadgets for streamlined prep and perfect cooking, you’ll have a memorable Italian-American meal worthy of any gathering.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken generously with salt and pepper, then brown the pieces skin-side down for 4-5 minutes per side. Set aside.
3. Add sausage to the same skillet and brown on all sides. Remove and reserve with the chicken.
4. Add the remaining oil, then sauté bell peppers and onions for about 4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute more.
5. Deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in chicken broth and white wine vinegar. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return chicken and sausage to the skillet along with pickled cherry peppers. Spoon some vegetables and sauce over the top.
7. Transfer skillet to the oven and roast uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temp of 165°F: confirm with an Alpha Grillers Meat Thermometer Digital, Instant Read).
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot, ideally with bread or polenta.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour