The Resurgence of Il Monello and The Joy of Chicken Scarpariello: Celebrating Italian-American Gastronomic Heritage
What happens when tradition meets culinary innovation? Magic, you could say, or simply, Chicken Scarpariello. A classic Italian-American dish, Chicken Scarpariello has journeyed from the humble kitchens of Southern Italy to the bustling epicurean panorama of the United States. This delightful gastronomic melody is a mix of juicy chicken, tart white wine sauce, and aromatic herbs, charming the taste buds of food enthusiasts countrywide.
A rendition of this dish par excellence can be experienced at Il Monello. Nestled within Manhattan’s vibrant heart, Il Monello carries more than just a legacy of classic Italian cuisine; it represents the spirit of resilience and pursuit of the American Dream. This narrative finds its embodiment in the restaurant’s owner, Steve Haxhiaj, an immigrant from war-torn Kosovo. Arriving in New York City in 1990, Haxhiaj began his journey as a busboy at Il Monello, rising through the ranks to become the owner. Despite a challenging interlude, when he had to close the restaurant in 2008 due to a drastic rent hike, Haxhiaj’s spirit remained unbroken. He reopened Il Monello in 2022, a testament to his unwavering dedication and commitment.
The rebirth of Il Monello at East 49th Street is a celebration of Italian culinary tradition. Here, Executive Chef Jaime Chabla continues the legacy of serving Northern Italian staples, a tradition since the restaurant’s inception in 1974 by Adi Giovannetti, a Tuscan native. Amidst a tastefully designed space that blends modern aesthetics with warm hospitality, Chef Chabla’s Chicken Scarpariello stands out as a star.
Now, for those who wish to recreate this heartwarming dish at home, Chef Jaime Chabla has generously shared his secret recipe.
Il Monello’s Chef Jaime Chabla’s Chicken Scarpariello
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hr
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Servings: 4 people
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 chicken thighs
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 stem of rosemary
- 5 oz white wine
- 2 oz lemon juice
- 2 oz butter
- salt & pepper
- 1 tbsp Italian parsley for garnish
- ¼ cup chicken stock
- cooking oil
- 1/2 cup of flour
Instructions:
1. Cut the chicken breasts and thighs into uniform bite-size pieces for even cooking.
2. Heat a pan with 4 oz of cooking oil.
3. Coat the chicken pieces lightly in flour, shaking off any excess, and sauté in the heated pan until golden brown on both sides.
4. Drain the remaining oil from the pan, leaving the browned chicken pieces in it.
5. Add the finely chopped garlic and rosemary, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Add white wine, lemon juice, butter, and chicken stock to the pan.
7. Once the butter has melted, place the pan in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (180 Celsius) for 4 minutes.
8. Garnish with Italian parsley before serving for a vibrant, flavorful finish.
As you relish each morsel of this rustic yet refined Chicken Scarpariello, you are participating in a shared culinary history that has journeyed from Southern Italy to Manhattan’s heart. This recipe serves not merely as an embodiment of a gastronomic tradition, but also a tribute to the resilience and unwavering spirit of individuals like Steve Haxhiaj.
So, when the call of Italian cuisine beckons, remember Il Monello’s Chicken Scarpariello. Be it an experienced palate or a curious taste bud, this dish promises a gastronomic delight that transcends mere sustenance. And if you’re ever around Manhattan, don’t miss a visit to Il Monello — your taste buds will thank you for the trip.
