Chicken Scarpariello

Chicken Scarpariello is a comforting, flavorful dish featuring bone-in chicken thighs, vibrant bell peppers, and tangy sweet peppers in a rich broth-based sauce. This version includes fully cooked chicken sausage, adding extra flavor and protein. With a balance of heat, tang, and savory goodness, this dish is perfect for a hearty dinner served over rice, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Scarpariello is bursting with flavor from the crispy chicken thighs, tender bell peppers, and juicy cherry or peppadew peppers. The inclusion of chicken sausage provides an extra layer of savory richness. The broth-based sauce, accented with apple cider vinegar and lemon juice, creates a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and spicy. Whether you’re cooking for a family or a special occasion, this dish will impress with its depth of flavor and satisfying textures.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 1 small red onion, sliced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (non-alcoholic substitute)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped

• 6–8 sweet cherry or peppadew peppers, halved

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 cup fully cooked chicken sausage, sliced (substitute for beef sausage)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Sear the Chicken:

1. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and black pepper.

2. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or Dutch oven. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Don’t rush this step — the browning adds flavor.

3. Once seared, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.

Sauté the Veggies:

1. In the same pan, keeping all the browned bits, add the sliced bell peppers, red onion, and sliced chicken sausage. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized.

2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Build the Sauce:

1. Pour in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes, oregano, and rosemary.

2. Stir well and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer and come together, creating a rich base for the dish.

Add the Peppers and Chicken:

1. Add the sweet cherry or peppadew peppers, giving the dish that tangy-sweet kick.

2. Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up. Let the sauce bubble, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Garnish and Serve:

1. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley.

2. Serve directly from the skillet with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or over rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Sausage Substitution: Use turkey sausage for a different flavor profile.

• Spicy Kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a chopped chili for extra heat.

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken sausage and use more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant.

• Herb Swap: Swap the rosemary for thyme or sage to vary the herb flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used. However, bone-in chicken thighs provide more flavor and moisture.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! You can use any fully cooked sausage, such as turkey, chicken for a different flavor.

Can I make this recipe without sausage?

Yes, you can skip the sausage entirely or substitute with another protein like shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and be tender when pierced with a fork.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, simply increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add fresh chilies to your liking.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked Chicken Scarpariello for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.

What should I serve with Chicken Scarpariello?

This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Conclusion

Chicken Scarpariello with Chicken Sausage is a rich and flavorful dish that blends tender chicken with savory sausage, vibrant peppers, and a zesty broth-based sauce. The balance of tangy vinegar, lemon, and sweet peppers makes every bite burst with flavor. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy!

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