Smoked Chicken Scarparello is an irresistible Italian-American dish that combines the bold flavors of smoked chicken, spicy Italian sausage, and a rich, tangy sauce. This one-pot meal is packed with smoky, savory goodness, making it perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make this dish step by step. We’ll also cover tips on selecting the best ingredients and enhancing the flavors to create a restaurant-quality meal at home.
What Is Smoked Chicken Scarparello?
Smoked Chicken Scarparello is a variation of the classic Chicken Scarpariello, a dish known for its combination of tender chicken, Italian sausage, and a tangy, slightly spicy sauce. The name “Scarpariello” translates to “shoemaker-style,” referring to its rustic, homey appeal.
This version takes it up a notch by smoking the chicken, infusing it with deep, wood-fired flavor that pairs beautifully with the heat from Italian sausage and the brightness of cherry peppers.
Ingredients for Smoked Chicken Scarparello
To make this flavorful dish, you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 3 links of hot Italian sausage (such as Johnsonville)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup red cherry peppers (sliced, with brine)
- 1 tablespoon flour
- ½ cup dry cherry wine
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For Smoking the Chicken:
- 1 cup applewood or hickory wood chips
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Smoke the Chicken
- Season the chicken – Rub the chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Preheat the smoker – Heat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) and add applewood or hickory chips for a rich, smoky aroma.
- Smoke the chicken – Place the seasoned chicken on the smoker grates and smoke for about 45–60 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Pro Tip: If you don’t have a smoker, you can roast the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes and finish it with a quick sear in a cast-iron pan.
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Step 2: Prepare the Sausage
- While the chicken is smoking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Remove the sausage from its casing and break it into bite-sized pieces.
- Sear the sausage until browned and slightly crispy, then remove it from the pan and set it aside.
Step 3: Build the Flavorful Sauce
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the red cherry peppers. Sauté for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour over the peppers and stir to create a light roux.
- Pour in the dry cherry wine and deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom.
- Add the chicken stock, chicken bouillon, and brine from the cherry peppers. Let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Combine Everything and Finish Cooking
- Place the smoked chicken back into the skillet, nestling it into the sauce.
- Add the seared sausage back into the pan.
- Cover and let it simmer for another 10–15 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Smoked Chicken Scarparello is best served with:
- Crusty Italian bread – Perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
- Roasted potatoes – Adds a hearty side to complement the dish.
- Pasta or risotto – For an extra comforting Italian-style meal.
Tips for the Best Smoked Chicken Scarparello
1. Choose High-Quality Sausage
Hot Italian sausage brings bold flavor to the dish. Opt for a premium brand like Johnsonville for the best results.
2. Use Fresh Cherry Peppers
Red cherry peppers add sweetness and heat. Their brine enhances the sauce, so don’t skip it!
3. Don’t Rush the Smoking Process
Low and slow smoking ensures juicy, flavorful chicken. If you’re short on time, sear the chicken first, then finish cooking in the sauce.
4. Make It Spicier
Want extra heat? Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to amp up the spice level.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs provide more flavor and tenderness. If using boneless, reduce the cooking time slightly.
2. What if I don’t have a smoker?
You can achieve a smoky flavor by using smoked paprika in the seasoning and cooking the chicken in a cast-iron skillet before baking.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store in an airtight container and reheat on the stovetop.
4. What wine pairs well with this dish?
A bold red wine like Chianti or Zinfandel complements the smoky and spicy flavors beautifully.
Smoked Chicken Scarparello is the perfect dish for anyone who loves bold Italian flavors with a smoky twist. It’s a simple, yet impressive meal that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen.
Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this one-pot masterpiece is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and let the smoky aroma fill your kitchen with pure deliciousness!
