If you’re craving a hearty, tangy, and slightly spicy Italian dish, this Savory Chicken Scarpariello is exactly what you need. Often called “shoemaker’s chicken,” this recipe combines tender chicken, sweet Italian sausage, bell peppers, and a zesty vinegar sauce for a truly unforgettable flavor. The balance of savory, sweet, and sour notes makes it stand out from typical chicken dishes. I tried this recipe once with turkey sausage and added a splash of white wine — it turned out beautifully rich with layers of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish delivers comfort and sophistication in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This classic Italian-American dish is a perfect example of rustic comfort food with gourmet flair. You’ll love how easily it comes together in one pan, creating minimal cleanup but maximum flavor. The combination of juicy chicken, sausage, and tangy vinegar sauce makes it unique and satisfying. Plus, it’s highly customizable — you can make it spicy, sweet, or even low-carb depending on your preferences. The flavors only get better the next day, making it an ideal make-ahead meal.
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Savory Chicken Scarpariello Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Italian Classic
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Savory Chicken Scarpariello is a hearty Italian-American dish made with tender chicken, Italian sausage, sweet and hot peppers, and a tangy vinegar-wine sauce. The name ‘Scarpariello’ means ‘shoemaker’s style,’ referring to its rustic, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or a mix of thighs and drumsticks)
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Pat chicken pieces dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken pieces skin-side down until golden brown, about 5–7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add sausage slices and cook until browned. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
- Add bell peppers and onions to the pan, sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Stir in chicken broth, red wine vinegar, rosemary, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
- Return chicken and sausage to the pan. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Uncover and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with crusty bread, pasta, or roasted potatoes.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for an hour before cooking.
- You can substitute red wine vinegar with white wine vinegar or lemon juice for a milder tang.
- Use spicy Italian sausage if you prefer more heat.
- This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop Braising
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken Thighs and Drumsticks – Bone-in pieces give the dish depth and juiciness, but you can also use boneless if preferred.
Sweet Italian Sausage – Adds rich, herby flavor that perfectly complements the chicken.
Bell Peppers – A colorful mix of red, yellow, and green peppers adds sweetness and vibrancy.
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic infuses bold flavor into the sauce.
White Wine – Deglazes the pan and deepens the sauce’s complexity.
Red Wine Vinegar – Brings a signature tang that makes this dish unforgettable.
Chicken Broth – Provides the perfect base for the sauce, helping to blend all the flavors.
Olive Oil – Used for browning the chicken and sausage, adding richness.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – For a subtle kick of heat that balances the sweetness of the peppers.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to highlight every layer of flavor.
Fresh Rosemary and Oregano – Classic Italian herbs that elevate the aroma and depth of the dish.
Potatoes or Rice (optional) – Ideal for serving and soaking up that delicious sauce.
Directions
Start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken on all sides until golden, then remove and set aside. Add the sausage to the same pan, breaking it up as it cooks until browned. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
In the same pan, add the bell peppers and cook until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Once the wine reduces slightly, add the chicken broth, red wine vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir in the fresh herbs.
Return the chicken and sausage to the pan, ensuring they’re coated in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed.
Serve warm with roasted potatoes, steamed rice, or crusty bread to soak up the rich, tangy sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people and takes about 45 minutes from start to finish — 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce smooth. You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Scarpariello: Use hot Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
Sweet & Tangy Version: Add a few tablespoons of honey or balsamic glaze to balance the vinegar’s tang.
Vegetable Boost: Include mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or cherry tomatoes for added depth and texture.
Lighter Option: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and omit the sausage for a leaner version.
Citrus Twist: Add a splash of lemon juice or zest at the end for brightness.
Herb-Infused Sauce: Experiment with thyme, basil, or sage for a new aromatic dimension.
Low-Carb Version: Serve with cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables instead of potatoes.
Wine-Free Adaptation: Substitute extra broth and a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar if you prefer to skip wine.
Creamy Variation: Stir in a touch of heavy cream at the end for a silky, mellow finish.
One-Pan Oven Style: Transfer the skillet to the oven at 400°F (200°C) for the last 15 minutes for a crispier finish.
FAQs
What does “Scarpariello” mean?
It translates to “shoemaker’s chicken,” reflecting a rustic, homey Italian dish made with everyday ingredients.
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, boneless chicken breasts or thighs work fine, though bone-in pieces provide more flavor.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild kick from red pepper flakes, but you can adjust to taste.
What type of sausage should I use?
Sweet Italian sausage is traditional, but spicy or turkey sausage also works.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats beautifully and even tastes better the next day.
Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of red wine vinegar?
Yes, but red wine vinegar provides a more authentic tang.
What sides pair best with this dish?
Rice, potatoes, or crusty bread are perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely — bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini complement the dish well.
How do I prevent overcooking the chicken?
Simmer gently and avoid cooking on high heat once you add the liquids.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.
Conclusion
Savory Chicken Scarpariello is a bold, rustic, and comforting dish that brings the warmth of Italian home cooking right to your table. With its perfectly browned chicken, juicy sausage, and tangy-sweet sauce, every bite is layered with rich, satisfying flavor. It’s simple enough for a weekday meal yet elegant enough for guests. Pair it with a side of roasted potatoes or a crisp salad, and enjoy the best of classic Italian cuisine — hearty, flavorful, and utterly irresistible.
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