Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe

If you crave a soul-satisfying, restaurant-worthy dinner that can be whipped up right at home, Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is destined to become your new weeknight favorite. This cheerful Italian-American skillet dish stars juicy, gently-spiced chicken, all nestled on a bed of velvety rice kissed with garlic and Parmesan. Each forkful is a burst of bright, garlicky flavor, finished with lush butter, zippy lemon, and a finishing flourish of parsley. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, this meal packs warm comfort and just the right amount of flair!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice lies in its simple pantry staples, each chosen for a specific reason. Every ingredient brings something special to the table, from savory notes to irresistible texture and color.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless strips give you flavorful, fast-cooking protein that’s tender in every bite.
• Salt and black pepper: These classic seasonings wake up all the savory flavors while letting the garlic shine through.
• Paprika: Offers a gentle kick and a beautiful golden hue to the chicken.
• All-purpose flour: Dredging the chicken gives it a light crust for the ultimate skillet sear.
• Olive oil and butter: This dynamic duo adds depth and lusciousness to both the chicken and the rice.
• Garlic: Essential for that aromatic, punchy kick in classic scampi dishes and ultra-savory rice.
• Dry white wine (or chicken broth): Brings complexity and tang; chicken broth is a great substitute for an alcohol-free version.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the sauce, balancing the richness with a sunny tang.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a subtle background heat that never overwhelms.
• Chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkled on top for a fresh, herbaceous finish and a splash of color.
• Long grain white rice: The ideal canvas for soaking up all the delicious flavors.
• Chicken broth (for rice): Cooks the rice with more flavor than water ever could.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Melds into the hot rice, creating a creamy, cheesy finish that ties the dish together.
• Salt and pepper (for rice): Season the rice just to your taste.

How to Make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by slicing your chicken breasts into even strips. Sprinkle them with salt, black pepper, and paprika, making sure each piece is evenly seasoned. Next, give them a gentle dusting with flour—this step helps create that irresistibly golden crust once cooked.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken Strips

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a blend of olive oil and butter. Once hot, add your chicken strips, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes per side. The magic happens here: the flour and butter unite for a beautifully crisp, golden exterior. When fully cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest (don’t worry, all those tasty bits left in the pan are about to lend their flavor to the sauce!).

Step 3: Create the Scampi Sauce

With the chicken set aside, toss minced garlic into the same skillet and sauté just until aromatic—about 30 seconds. Pour in the dry white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze, scraping up the glorious browned bits from the pan. Stir in the lemon juice and red pepper flakes for a hint of zest and a backdrop of heat. Let it all simmer together, then return the chicken to the skillet, allowing everything to mingle for another 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Rice

While the chicken is simmering, turn your attention to the rice. In a medium saucepan, melt butter and olive oil together, then add minced garlic and sauté briefly for maximum aroma. Stir in the rice and cook for a minute or two, letting every grain get a little toasty. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer, covered, for 18 to 20 minutes. When the rice is fluffy and tender, stir in the Parmesan, adjust the salt and pepper, and fluff it with a fork for that perfect, pillowy base.

Step 5: Assemble and Garnish

To bring your Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice together, spoon the garlicky Parmesan rice onto plates, arrange the sizzling chicken and sauce over the top, and shower with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Each plate is pure comfort with flair!

How to Serve Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Garnishes

Finish your creation with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a fresh, herbal touch. Add extra grated Parmesan if you love cheese, or a few twists of cracked black pepper. A splash of lemon juice right before serving takes this dish truly over the top.

Side Dishes

While Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is already complete, a crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or sautéed spinach makes a refreshing accompaniment. Even buttered broccoli or lemony green beans work wonderfully to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the chicken and rice family-style from a large platter, or stack the chicken atop a tidy mound of rice for a restaurant-style moment. Layer with grilled vegetables or swirl the sauce into the rice for a dramatic, saucy effect. For kids, consider rolling the chicken strips in the rice for a fun twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice can happily reside in a sealed container in your fridge for up to three days. Keep the chicken and rice together or separate—either way, they’ll still taste amazing tomorrow!

Freezing

If you want to tuck some away for a future busy night, portion the chicken and rice into freezer-friendly containers. Seal well and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, drizzling in a splash of chicken broth if needed to revive the saucy goodness. Stir occasionally and reheat until the chicken is piping hot and the rice is fluffy once more.

FAQs

What if I want to make this dish alcohol-free?

No problem at all! Just swap the dry white wine for chicken broth—Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice remains just as flavorful and family-friendly.

Can I use a different cut of chicken?

Absolutely. Boneless chicken thighs or even chicken tenderloins are delicious in this recipe—they stay especially juicy and require very little prep.

How spicy is this dish?

The red pepper flakes add a very gentle heat, which you can easily adjust or leave out entirely for a mild, kid-approved dinner.

Will this work with brown rice or a different grain?

Yes, though you’ll need to adjust cooking times and liquid amounts depending on the grain. Brown rice offers a nuttier flavor but takes a little longer to cook. Quinoa or orzo would be tasty alternatives as well.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice scales up beautifully. Simply double all the ingredients (use a larger skillet if you have one), and you can feed a big gathering with ease and style.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something special about gathering around a plate of Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice—every bite is cozy, zesty, and memorable. Next time you want to surprise your loved ones or treat yourself, give this delightful recipe a try. You’ll want to return to it again and again!

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