Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat

Juicy and flavorful, this Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat recipe is perfect for family dinners and special occasions alike. Its rich garlic butter sauce and tender chicken will take your taste buds on a delightful journey. This dish captures the essence of Olive Garden’s famous scampi, making it an easy and satisfying meal to recreate at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in about 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a deliciously rich sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Family Favorite: With its comforting flavors, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread for a complete meal everyone will love.
• Easy Cleanup: One pan cooking means less time scrubbing dishes afterward.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started, gather all necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating your delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Loaf pan
• Cooking spray or olive oil
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients evenly before baking.
• Skillet: Great for sautéing garlic, which enhances the flavor of your meatloaf.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your meatloaf reaches the safe internal temperature for delicious results.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the delightful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf:

Ground Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground chicken
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping

Wet Ingredients

• ¼ cup milk
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

Topping Ingredients

• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat

Step 1: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and lightly beaten eggs until well blended.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

Add the panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese (½ cup), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Garlic and Parsley

Pour the sautéed garlic and oil into the mixing bowl with the other ingredients. Add the chopped fresh parsley for added freshness.

Step 5: Add Ground Chicken

Gently add the ground chicken to the mixing bowl. Mix everything together until just combined; do not overmix to keep it tender.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while preparing your meatloaf mixture.

Step 7: Prepare Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking during baking.

Step 8: Shape Meatloaf

Gently transfer the meatloaf mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Shape it into an even loaf for even cooking.

Step 9: Create Garlic Butter Topping

In a small bowl, combine melted butter and garlic powder to create a flavorful topping.

Step 10: Brush with Garlic Butter

Brush the top of the meatloaf with your garlic butter mixture generously for added flavor.

Step 11: Sprinkle with Parmesan Cheese

Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese on top of the meatloaf before baking for an extra cheesy crust.

Step 12: Add Chicken Broth to the Pan

Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the loaf pan around the meatloaf. This keeps it moist during baking.

Step 13: Bake Meatloaf

Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 14: Check for Doneness

The meatloaf is done when its internal temperature registers at least 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear when pierced with a fork.

Step 15: Rest Meatloaf

Remove from oven once cooked through, allowing it to rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture.

Step 16: Slice Meatloaf

After resting, carefully slice your meatloaf into even pieces using a sharp knife for clean cuts.

Step 17: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf immediately alongside your favorite sides or pasta!

This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people and makes an excellent choice for any dinner occasion!

How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat

Serving the Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat can elevate your meal experience. This dish is not only delicious, but it also pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread complements the rich flavors of the scampi. It’s perfect for soaking up the tasty sauce.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light, fresh salad balances the richness of the chicken scampi. Consider a mixed greens salad topped with a zesty vinaigrette.

Include Steamed Vegetables

• Steamed vegetables provide color and nutrition to your plate. Broccoli or asparagus are great options that add crunch.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh parsley or basil enhances the presentation and adds vibrant flavor to each bite.

Serve with White Wine

• A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with chicken scampi. It enhances the dish’s flavors.

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How to Perfect Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat

To make your Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat truly stand out, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and herbs to enhance flavor.
• Cook Chicken Properly: Ensure chicken is cooked just right to maintain juiciness.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust seasoning as needed to find the perfect taste balance.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook pasta until al dente for an ideal texture alongside the scampi.
• Add Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest at serving brightens up the dish immensely.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!

Best Side Dishes for Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat

Enhancing your meal with side dishes can take your dining experience up a notch. Here are some fantastic options that pair well with this delicious copycat recipe.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These caramelized sprouts add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor.
4. Risotto – Creamy risotto can serve as a luxurious base for your chicken scampi.
5. Zucchini Noodles – Light and healthy, zucchini noodles offer a low-carb option that pairs well.
6. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a vibrant side dish.
7. Fettuccine Alfredo – For pasta lovers, this creamy dish is an indulgent choice that complements chicken well.
8. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese or herbs make for an excellent appetizer or side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf can be simple, but a few mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Overmixing the meatloaf: Mixing the ingredients too much can lead to a dense texture. Mix until just combined for a light and tender loaf.
• Skipping the resting time: Not letting the meatloaf rest after baking can cause it to fall apart. Always let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
• Ignoring the internal temperature: Cooking without checking the internal temperature may result in undercooked meat. Ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
• Using stale breadcrumbs: Old panko bread crumbs won’t provide the right texture or flavor. Always use fresh panko to enhance your dish.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season properly can make your meatloaf bland. Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they elevate the flavors significantly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• To maintain freshness, keep the meatloaf wrapped tightly or in a sealed container.

Freezing Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Label each package with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf.

What makes this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf special?

The combination of ground chicken, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates a moist and flavorful dish that appeals to everyone.

Can I customize the spices in this Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices, like paprika or crushed red pepper, to suit your taste preferences.

How do I know when my meatloaf is done?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked through.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture a day before and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

What sides pair well with Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Copycat?

It goes well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any family dinner. You can easily customize it with different herbs or toppings. Give this comforting dish a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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