Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

If you love a combination of tender chicken and a flavorful, creamy sauce, then Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is the perfect dish to add to your recipe collection. This recipe brings together the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and Parmesan, making for a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress your family and friends without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a delicious fusion of two classic dishes: Chicken Scampi and Garlic Parmesan Rice. The chicken is perfectly sautéed, then bathed in a creamy garlic butter sauce, while the rice is infused with Parmesan and garlic, making it the perfect side dish to complement the main course. The flavors meld together so well, and the dish feels both luxurious and homey at the same time. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which makes cleanup a breeze! This is the kind of dish I turn to when I want comfort food that feels elevated and indulgent.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

• 1 cup rice

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese

• 2 cups chicken broth

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Lower the heat, then return the chicken to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the chicken and let it simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors combine. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue simmering until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

6. While the chicken is simmering, prepare the garlic Parmesan rice. In a separate pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.

7. Add the rice to the pot and stir it around to coat it in the garlic butter. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

8. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper, and fluff the rice with a fork.

9. Serve the chicken over the garlic Parmesan rice, spooning the creamy scampi sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings. The preparation time is around 10 minutes, while the cooking time is roughly 25 minutes. So, you can have a hearty, flavorful meal ready in about 35 minutes!

Variations

• If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream instead of heavy cream.

• You can also add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the chicken scampi sauce for extra flavor and color.

• For a more decadent touch, toss in some cooked shrimp along with the chicken for a seafood twist.

• If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, swap the regular rice for cauliflower rice and ensure the chicken broth is gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers of Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I suggest using a skillet over low heat, adding a little chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

FAQs

How can I make the chicken more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of the chicken, try marinating it in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and Italian seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking. This adds an extra layer of flavor to the chicken.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can absolutely use chicken thighs in place of breasts. Thighs are a bit juicier and tend to have more flavor, making them a great choice for this dish.

Can I substitute the rice with pasta?

If you’re craving pasta instead of rice, you can certainly substitute the rice with your favorite pasta. Just cook the pasta according to the package instructions, and toss it in the creamy garlic sauce.

Is this dish spicy?

No, this dish is not spicy. However, if you like a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic or in the sauce to give it a mild kick.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and garlic Parmesan rice ahead of time. Store each component separately in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a dish that combines the best of both worlds: tender chicken, a rich creamy sauce, and a flavorful garlic rice. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. I love how versatile and customizable it is, and it’s one of those recipes that’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe will definitely become a favorite!