Creamy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe

Weeknight dinners demand quick, delectable solutions like this chicken scampi that promises restaurant-quality comfort.

Pasta lovers will adore the zesty combination of tender chicken and buttery sauce.

Garlic and parmesan rice create a perfect complement to the succulent protein.

Mediterranean-inspired flavors dance across each carefully seasoned bite.

Crisp white wine adds depth to this elegant yet straightforward meal.

Fragrant herbs and bright lemon notes elevate the entire dish.

Perfect Side Ideas for Chicken Scampi Meals

• Select a crisp, acidic white like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the garlic and butter notes in the chicken scampi, cutting through the richness and enhancing the dish's delicate flavors.
• Serve a small side salad with fresh goat cheese crumbles to balance the garlic Parmesan rice, adding a tangy counterpoint that refreshes the palate between bites.
• Garnish with extra fresh parsley or add a light herb-infused olive oil drizzle to intensify the dish's aromatic profile and create a bright, fresh dimension to the rich chicken and rice.
• Include a crunchy element like toasted pine nuts or herbed breadcrumbs sprinkled over the rice to provide a satisfying textural difference against the tender chicken and creamy rice.

Flavor Swaps to Freshen Up Scampi Night

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace butter with olive oil and omit Parmesan cheese. Use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or skip cheese entirely for a lighter version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Confirm the rice and chicken broth are certified gluten-free. Swap regular rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that maintains the dish's core flavors.
• Herb Lovers' Version: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or chives instead of parsley. Add extra dried herbs to the rice for more depth and aromatic complexity.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Substitute chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or roasted portobello mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to create a complete plant-based meal.

Chicken Scampi FAQs

• Is garlic essential for this recipe?

Garlic is crucial for developing rich, deep flavor in both the rice and the overall dish’s taste profile. It provides an aromatic base that enhances the entire meal’s complexity.

• Can I use different types of rice?

Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe, but you can substitute with basmati or jasmine rice. Avoid using quick-cooking or instant rice as they might impact the texture and cooking method.

• How do I know when the rice is perfectly cooked?

The rice is done when all liquid is absorbed and the grains are tender. After 15 minutes of simmering, check by gently fluffing with a fork – the rice should be soft and not stick together.

• What if I don't have fresh parsley?

Dried parsley can be used as a substitute, but fresh parsley provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor and adds a nice green color to the dish. If you don’t have either, you can omit it without significantly affecting the recipe.

Why Chicken Scampi with Parmesan Rice Is a Must-Make

• Super simple cooking process that transforms basic ingredients into a delicious dinner in under 30 minutes.
• Combines classic garlic parmesan rice with tender chicken scampi, delivering maximum taste with minimal kitchen effort.
• Offers a crowd-pleasing dish that appeals to both kids and adults, with familiar flavors and satisfying textures.
• Easily adaptable recipe that works for busy weeknights, weekend dinners, or casual entertaining with minimal prep time and ingredients.

What You’ll Need for Chicken Scampi with Garlic Rice

Main Ingredients:

Chicken and Seafood: – Chicken Breasts: Tender protein that forms the main component of the dish, best when fresh and trimmed of excess fat.

Rice Base: – White Rice: Fluffy base for the dish, perfect for absorbing flavors and creating a comforting foundation.

Cooking Fats: – Butter, Olive Oil: Rich, flavorful fats that help with sautéing and adding depth to the overall taste.

Aromatics: – Garlic, Fresh Parsley: Provides intense flavor and fresh herbal notes, essential for creating depth in the scampi.

Cheese and Seasonings: – Parmesan Cheese, Salt, Black Pepper: Adds sharp, salty flavor and brings seasoning balance to the dish.

Liquid Components: – Chicken Broth: Provides moisture and rich background flavor for cooking the rice perfectly.

How to Cook Chicken Scampi That’s Packed with Flavor

Step 1: Prepare Aromatic Rice Base

In a medium saucepan, gently melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in freshly minced garlic and allow it to dance and release its fragrant essence for about 30 seconds.

Step 2: Create Flavorful Rice Foundation

• Rice
• Chicken broth
• Salt
• Pepper

Add rice to the pan, stirring to ensure each grain gets coated with buttery garlic goodness. Pour in chicken broth, sprinkle salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Let the rice simmer peacefully for 15 minutes until it absorbs all the liquid.

Step 3: Elevate Rice with Cheesy Goodness

Remove the pan from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Gently fold in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Cover and let the flavors mingle while you prepare the chicken.

Step 4: Prepare Chicken Scampi

• Chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic
• White wine
• Lemon juice
• Butter
• Fresh parsley

Pat chicken breasts dry and season with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 5: Create Luxurious Scampi Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté briefly. Pour in white wine and lemon juice, scraping up any delicious browned bits. Whisk in butter to create a silky sauce. Return chicken to the pan and coat with the luxurious sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Plate the garlic Parmesan rice and top with the succulent chicken scampi. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Cooking Tips for, Cheesy Rice and Tender Chicken

• Garlic Toast Point: Enhance the dish by serving extra toasted bread rubbed with garlic for soaking up delicious pan sauces.
• Precise Garlic Technique: Mince garlic finely and avoid burning by cooking quickly at medium heat for maximum flavor without bitterness.
• Rice Fluffing Secret: Use a fork to gently separate rice grains after cooking, ensuring light and airy texture instead of compact clumping.
• Cheese Quality Matters: Select freshly grated Parmesan for richer, more authentic flavor compared to pre-packaged grated cheese.
• Quick Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or white fish for an easy seafood variation that maintains the scampi's signature taste profile.

How to Save and Warm Up Chicken Scampi Later

• Store leftover chicken scampi and rice in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Keep separate to maintain texture and prevent sogginess.
• Refrigerated leftovers stay fresh for 3-4 days when properly sealed. Place containers in the coldest part of the refrigerator.
• Sprinkle a few drops of water on rice, cover, and microwave for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to distribute heat evenly.
• Reheat chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying. Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe

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4.7 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent chicken scampi dances with zesty garlic and lemon, nestled alongside creamy parmesan rice that whispers Italian coastal comfort. Crisp herbs and golden butter elevate this classic dish, inviting you to savor each luxurious, flavor-packed bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein:

• 2 large chicken breasts (cut into thin strips)

Seasoning and Spices:

• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Cooking and Flavor Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• ¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy version)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Rice Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
• 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare a medium saucepan and melt butter over medium heat, introducing finely chopped garlic and sautéing briefly until its aromatic essence permeates the kitchen.
2. Incorporate rice into the butter-garlic mixture, ensuring each grain receives a luxurious coating, then introduce chicken broth, seasoning with salt and pepper to elevate flavor profiles.
3. Raise heat to initiate boiling, then immediately reduce to low, covering the pan to allow gentle simmering for approximately 15 minutes until liquid disappears completely.
4. Once rice reaches perfect tenderness, remove from heat and delicately separate grains using a fork, creating a light, fluffy texture.
5. Enhance the rice’s richness by folding in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and vibrant, chopped parsley, creating a harmonious blend of creamy and herbaceous notes.
6. Allow the rice to rest, covered, while capturing residual warmth and allowing flavors to meld seamlessly, preparing for the accompanying chicken scampi.

Notes

• Quickly toast garlic in butter to release maximum aromatic flavors without burning, watching carefully during the 30-second sauté.
• Use long-grain white rice for the best texture and ensure consistent cooking by not lifting the lid during simmering.
• Grate fresh Parmesan cheese directly onto the rice for more intense flavor compared to pre-packaged grated varieties.
• For a gluten-free version, swap regular rice with cauliflower rice and use gluten-free chicken broth to accommodate dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg