Chicken Scarpariello, often called “shoemaker’s chicken,” is a rustic Italian-American dish that perfectly balances bold flavors. Featuring tender chicken, sweet Italian sausage, tangy peppers, and a zesty white wine sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that feels both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating your family to a hearty meal, Chicken Scarpariello is a recipe worth mastering.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Sausage:
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
2 links of sweet Italian sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
For the Sauce:
1 medium onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
½ cup dry white wine
¼ cup red wine vinegar
1 cup cherry peppers, sliced (sweet or hot, based on preference)
1 cup bell peppers, sliced (optional for added sweetness)
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon capers
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Lightly dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken and Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown, about 5–7 minutes. Flip and cook for another 3–4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the sausage slices and cook until browned. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Deglaze and Build the Sauce
Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Add the chicken broth, red wine vinegar, cherry peppers, bell peppers (if using), rosemary, oregano, capers, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the chicken and sausage to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F) and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove the rosemary sprigs and discard.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a citrusy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Scarpariello pairs beautifully with:
Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty side
Pasta or polenta for a more substantial meal
A light arugula salad to balance the rich flavors
Tips for Success
Choose the Right Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs retain moisture and develop a crispy, golden crust.
Adjust Heat Levels: Use sweet or hot cherry peppers depending on your spice preference. Add crushed red pepper for extra kick.
Deglaze Properly: Scraping up the browned bits from the skillet adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, boneless thighs or breasts can be used, but bone-in chicken enhances the flavor during cooking.
What can I substitute for cherry peppers?
Pepperoncini or roasted red peppers can be used as substitutes, though they offer a slightly different flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Chicken Scarpariello is a dish that brings together the best of Italian-American comfort food.
The combination of savory chicken, flavorful sausage, and a tangy, slightly spicy sauce makes every bite irresistible. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
Serve it with your favorite sides, pour yourself a glass of wine, and enjoy the rich, hearty flavors of this classic dish. If you give this recipe a try, share your experience and let us know how it turned out!
Variations to Try
Chicken Scarpariello is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are a few variations to inspire your creativity:
Vegetable Boost:
Add additional vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.
Artichoke hearts can also add a Mediterranean twist to the dish.
Gluten-Free Version:
Skip the flour for dredging or use a gluten-free alternative such as rice flour or almond flour.
Low-Carb Option:
Serve the dish over cauliflower rice or alongside roasted vegetables instead of traditional pasta or bread.
Different Protein:
Swap the chicken thighs for chicken drumsticks, wings, or even pork chops.
You can also use turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage alternative.
Creamy Twist:
Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce during the final few minutes of cooking for a rich, creamy variation.
Why Chicken Scarpariello is a Favorite
This dish is a perfect example of comfort food done right. It combines hearty ingredients with a tangy, zesty sauce that’s layered with bold, complementary flavors. The recipe’s appeal lies in its ability to be both rustic and elegant, making it suitable for any occasion.
Key Highlights:
Flavorful Marinade: The mix of wine, vinegar, and herbs creates a rich, tangy base.
Textural Balance: Tender chicken, crisped sausage, and slightly softened vegetables make every bite dynamic.
Easy to Customize: Adjust the ingredients to suit your family’s preferences or the ingredients you have on hand.
Make It a Meal
Pair Chicken Scarpariello with the following sides and desserts for a well-rounded Italian-inspired meal:
Starters:
A simple antipasto platter with olives, cured meats, and cheeses.
A light minestrone soup or Caesar salad.
Sides:
Roasted garlic potatoes or herb-infused rice.
Sauteed green beans with lemon and almonds.
Desserts:
End the meal with classic Italian desserts like tiramisu or panna cotta.
For something simpler, serve fresh fruit drizzled with honey and balsamic glaze.
Share Your Dish!
Chicken Scarpariello is a dish that’s meant to be shared. Whether it’s a family gathering, a romantic dinner, or a festive occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to leave an impression. If you’ve tried it, don’t forget to share your photos, tips, and personal twists on social media or in the comments.
Enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish, and let the rich, zesty sauce transport you straight to an Italian trattoria! Buon appetito!
