Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
If you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together with pantry staples, this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is about to become your new favorite. Tender chicken strips are seared and tossed in a bright, buttery garlic sauce, then served over a bed of creamy Parmesan rice. Each forkful is bursting with cozy flavors and just the right amount of zing from lemon and a touch of heat. Whether you’re craving comfort or impressing guests, this dish brings rich Italian-American vibes straight to your table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice plays a starring role, creating layers of flavor and texture you’ll love. Simple, fresh components make this dish both approachable and unforgettable, so don’t skip the little touches!
- Chicken breast or tenders: These cook up juicy and soak up all the garlicky, lemony sauce.
- Olive oil: Offers richness and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
- Butter: Adds indulgence and makes the sauce silky-smooth.
- Garlic: The heart of both the scampi and the rice—use fresh cloves for the best flavor.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For that subtle, craveable heat.
- Dry white wine or chicken broth: Deglazes the pan and builds savory depth; use wine for extra brightness or broth for a family-friendly touch.
- Lemon juice: Lifts everything with a burst of fresh acidity.
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle at the end adds color and a hit of herby freshness.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer of the dish.
- Long grain white rice: The perfect canvas for all that cheesy, garlicky flavor.
- Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with extra savoriness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the rice for a creamy, comforting finish.
How to Make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Step 1: Start the Garlic Parmesan Rice
Begin by melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add in your minced garlic and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant—your kitchen will already smell amazing! Stir in the dry rice and toast it gently for a couple of minutes; this step gives the rice a nutty undertone. Pour in chicken broth and salt, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low for 15–18 minutes until fluffy and tender. Once it’s ready, fluff with a fork and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Cover the pot to keep the rice warm while you finish the chicken.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
While your rice quietly cooks, heat a blend of olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high. Season the chicken strips generously with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot pan in a single layer. Sear for 4–5 minutes per side, letting the pieces turn golden and develop a delicious crust. When the chicken is just cooked through, transfer it to a plate so you can build the sauce in the same pan.
Step 3: Make the Zesty Scampi Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and toss the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes into the skillet—those little browned bits left from the chicken boost big flavor! Sauté briefly, then splash in white wine or chicken broth. Let it bubble for a couple of minutes to reduce and concentrate. Finish the sauce with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright, tangy kick.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the garlicky, lemony sauce. Sprinkle over the chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Let everything mingle for another minute so the chicken soaks up every drop of flavor. Now, you’re ready to build your plates!
Step 5: Serve Everything Together
Spoon a generous helping of Garlic Parmesan Rice onto each plate, then top with the juicy chicken strips and a drizzle of that golden pan sauce. This is the moment where Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice truly shines—simple, satisfying, and totally irresistible.
How to Serve Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Garnishes
For an extra pop, sprinkle a little more grated Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley right before serving. A light dusting of lemon zest can also brighten the whole dish and add a bit of color. If you like a little heat, a pinch of extra red pepper flakes is always welcome.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, or some roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. Warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party twist, serve Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice in individual bowls or even on a platter family-style so guests can help themselves. Garnish with lemon slices and a few whole parsley sprigs for a touch of elegance. You can even nestle sautéed spinach or blanched broccolini alongside for a pop of green and a nutritional boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice will keep for up to three days in the refrigerator. Store the chicken and rice together in an airtight container, or separate them if you prefer to reheat individually. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to two months, though the rice may soften slightly after thawing. Cool everything completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the rice and chicken, then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. If you notice the rice is a bit dry, a pat of butter stirred in at the end will restore its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, offering even more juicy flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a minute or two longer to cook through.
Is there a substitute for white wine?
Yes, if you’d rather skip the wine, simply use chicken broth instead. You’ll still get plenty of savory flavor without any alcohol, keeping the dish family-friendly and just as tasty.
Can I make the rice ahead of time?
You can! Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice a day in advance and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat gently with a splash of broth or water and fluff before plating with the chicken.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is naturally gluten-free as long as your chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are certified gluten-free. Double-check your ingredient labels to be sure!
What vegetables pair well with this recipe?
Steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted asparagus are all wonderful alongside Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice. Their freshness and crunch balance the creamy richness of the rice and sauce.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is the kind of meal that’s as comforting as it is impressive, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends alike. Give it a try and watch how quickly it disappears from your table—you might just find it becomes a new staple in your kitchen!
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Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Chicken Scampi served over creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice. This Italian-American dish combines tender chicken strips sautéed in garlic, butter, lemon, and white wine, paired perfectly with cheesy, fragrant rice. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that feels gourmet.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Scampi:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or tenders, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 ¼ cups chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the rice and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly. Pour in the chicken broth and add salt, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the Parmesan cheese. Cover and keep warm.
- Cook the Chicken: While the rice cooks, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with salt and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Scampi Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, if using. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the white wine or chicken broth and simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Combine and Finish: Stir in the lemon juice, then return the chicken strips to the skillet. Toss the chicken in the sauce to coat well. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top.
- Serve: Plate the garlic Parmesan rice and top with the chicken scampi and pan sauce. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor.
Notes
- Add sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli for a vegetable boost.
- You can use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
- If you prefer no alcohol, use chicken broth instead of white wine.
- To make this dish nut-free, ensure Parmesan cheese is sourced without cross-contamination.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
