Barefoot Contessa Chicken Scarpariello Recipe

Ina Garten’s Chicken Scarpariello is a flavorful Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken, Italian sausage, and a tangy sauce infused with garlic, white wine, and peppers. This hearty recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner that brings a restaurant-quality meal to your table.

What is Barefoot Contessa Chicken Scarpariello?

Chicken Scarpariello, meaning “shoemaker-style chicken,” is a rustic Italian-American dish made with braised chicken, Italian sausage, and a savory sauce. The dish gets its bold flavors from garlic, wine, and pickled peppers, creating a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy notes. Ina Garten’s take on this classic dish is simple yet sophisticated.

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Reasons to Try Barefoot Contessa Chicken Scarpariello

• Rich and hearty: Combines tender chicken and sausage in a flavorful sauce.
• Bold flavors: Features garlic, wine, and peppers for a tangy, savory dish.
• Great for entertaining: An impressive yet easy-to-make main course.
• Customizable: Adjust spice levels and ingredients to suit your taste.
• One-pan recipe: Everything cooks in one skillet for easy cleanup.

Ingredients Needed to Make Barefoot Contessa Chicken Scarpariello

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup pickled cherry peppers, sliced
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup sliced bell peppers (red or yellow)
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions to Prepare Barefoot Contessa Chicken Scarpariello

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Season the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
• Slice and chop: Prepare the onion, garlic, and herbs. Slice the sausage and pickled peppers.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken and Sausage

• Heat the oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Brown the chicken: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5–6 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown. Flip and cook for another 3–4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
• Cook the sausage: In the same skillet, add the sausage pieces and cook until browned about 3–4 minutes. Remove and set aside with the chicken.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

• Cook the onions: Add the sliced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
• Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

• Deglaze the pan: Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
• Add the stock and vinegar: Stir in the chicken stock and red wine vinegar.
• Incorporate the flavors: Add the pickled cherry peppers, rosemary, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer.

Step 5: Cook the Dish

• Return the chicken and sausage: Place the seared chicken and sausage back into the skillet, skin-side up.
• Simmer gently: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 6: Serve

• Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Plate the chicken and sausage with the sauce and enjoy.

What Goes Well With Barefoot Contessa Chicken Scarpariello

• Mashed potatoes: A creamy base to soak up the tangy sauce.
• Crusty bread: Use to mop up every bit of the flavorful sauce.
• Polenta: Serve over creamy polenta for a comforting meal.
• Steamed vegetables: Pair with broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a lighter side.
• Pasta or rice: Serve over cooked pasta or rice to complete the dish.

Key Tips for Making Barefoot Contessa Chicken Scarpariello

• Sear the chicken properly: Browning the chicken adds depth and flavor to the dish.
• Use high-quality sausage: Choose a flavorful Italian sausage for the best results.
• Deglaze the pan: Don’t skip deglazing to capture the browned bits for a rich sauce.
• Adjust spice levels: Add more or less crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
• Don’t rush the simmering: Cooking slowly allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Creative Variations of Barefoot Contessa Chicken Scarpariello

• Make it spicier: Add more pickled peppers or use hot Italian sausage.
• Add vegetables: Include sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
• Use boneless chicken: Substitute boneless chicken thighs or breasts for a quicker cooking time.
• Try a citrus twist: Add fresh lemon slices or zest to brighten the flavors.
• Make it dairy-free: Use olive oil instead of butter if making dairy-free modifications.

Storage Guidelines for Barefoot Contessa Chicken Scarpariello

• Refrigerate leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed.
• Freeze for later: Freeze the cooked dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for Chicken Scarpariello?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be used. They will cook faster than bone-in chicken, so reduce the simmering time to avoid overcooking.

What is a good substitute for pickled cherry peppers in Chicken Scarpariello?

If pickled cherry peppers are unavailable, use banana peppers, pepperoncini, or a mix of roasted bell peppers and a splash of vinegar for a similar tangy flavor.

How do I thicken the sauce for Chicken Scarpariello?

To thicken the sauce, simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors. Alternatively, whisk in a small amount of cornstarch slurry.

Can I make Chicken Scarpariello ahead of time?

Yes, Chicken Scarpariello can be made ahead. Prepare the dish, cool it completely, and refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Chicken Scarpariello is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and bold flavors, this recipe is sure to impress.

Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Grilled Swordfish
• Ina Garten Roasted Rosemary Cashews
• Ina Garten Blue Cheese Crackers
• Ina Garten Cream Cheese Frosting
• Ina Garten Tzimmes

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