If you’re searching for a restaurant-quality meal you can whip up in under an hour, Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is the answer. Imagine juicy strips of golden chicken nestled atop a bed of decadent, cheesy rice, all bathed in a bright, garlicky lemon sauce. This Italian-inspired dish delivers comfort and zing in equal measure, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress your loved ones with something special (but secretly easy).
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice comes from simple, honest ingredients that each play a starring role. From aromatic garlic to rich Parmesan and a splash of zesty lemon, every element is there for a reason—bringing balance, color, and irresistible flavor to your table.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are sliced into strips for quick, even cooking and maximum tenderness.
- Salt: A little salt seasons the chicken perfectly, enhancing every bite.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth that pairs beautifully with the creamy rice and lemony sauce.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a gentle kick, just a pinch brightens up the dish.
- Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to a gorgeous golden brown, adding flavor and richness.
- Butter: Divided between sautéing and saucing, butter brings silkiness and depth to both chicken and rice.
- Garlic: Four cloves, minced, infuse the entire meal with irresistible aroma and flavor.
- Dry white wine or chicken broth: Deglazes the skillet and forms the backbone of the tangy scampi sauce.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for brightness, it elevates the whole dish and balances the creamy richness.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note at the end.
- Long grain white rice: Cooked until fluffy, it becomes the canvas for all those creamy, cheesy flavors.
- Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with even more savory depth and keeps it tender.
- Heavy cream: The secret to that lush, dreamy texture in the rice.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the rice for a salty, nutty finish that ties everything together.
How to Make Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken
Start by giving your chicken strips a good sprinkling of salt, pepper, and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a dash of red pepper flakes. This simple seasoning brings out the natural flavor of the chicken and sets the stage for that classic scampi kick.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat up your skillet (choose one with plenty of room) over medium-high heat, then add the olive oil and half of the butter. Lay the chicken strips in a single layer and let them cook for about 5–6 minutes, turning once, until they’re golden and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside—you’ll bring it back for the big finish.
Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce
In the same skillet, drop in the remaining butter and reduce the heat to medium. Add your minced garlic and let it sizzle for just a minute, releasing that signature aroma. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced, then stir in the parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Step 4: Return Chicken to the Sauce
Slide the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss it gently to coat every strip in that golden, garlicky sauce. This step ensures the chicken soaks up all those bright, buttery flavors—don’t rush it!
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
While the chicken is soaking up the sauce, turn your attention to the rice. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and chicken broth. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15–18 minutes until the rice is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the rice turns rich, creamy, and positively irresistible.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
To serve Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice, spoon a generous portion of the creamy rice onto each plate. Top with a mound of glistening chicken scampi, making sure to drizzle extra sauce over everything. Finish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a touch more parsley if you like.
How to Serve Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
Garnishes
A shower of freshly grated Parmesan and a scattering of chopped parsley are classic finishing touches for Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice. A wedge of lemon on the side will let everyone add a little zesty brightness to their plate, making each bite pop.
Side Dishes
This meal is rich and satisfying on its own, but a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a side of steamed asparagus will add freshness and color. For a heartier spread, warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra scampi sauce left behind.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice in shallow bowls, topped with lemon zest curls and microgreens. Or, try plating it family-style on a large platter for a rustic Italian feast—let everyone dig in and help themselves!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping or next-day lunches.
Freezing
While the creamy rice is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to one month. Just know that the texture of the sauce may change slightly after freezing and thawing, but the flavors will still be delicious.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken and rice gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up if needed. Stir frequently to maintain that lovely creamy texture, and finish with a fresh sprinkle of Parmesan to revive all the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more juiciness and flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, since thighs may take a minute or two longer to cook through.
Is there a non-dairy option for the creamy rice?
You can swap the heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or oat-based cream, and use a vegan Parmesan substitute. The rice will still be creamy and full of flavor.
What kind of wine is best for the scampi sauce?
A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works beautifully here, adding acidity without overwhelming the other flavors. If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is a perfect substitute.
Can I make Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare both the chicken and rice in advance and store them separately. When ready to serve, gently reheat and assemble—just add a splash of broth or cream to the rice to refresh its creamy consistency.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Easily! Stir in baby spinach, peas, or sautéed mushrooms into the rice just before serving, or add roasted veggies alongside the chicken for extra color and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and vibrant, Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is sure to become a new favorite at your table. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy it is to make, and everyone will be asking for seconds!
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Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delightful Italian-inspired dish featuring succulent strips of chicken sautéed in a buttery garlic lemon sauce paired perfectly with rich, creamy Parmesan-infused rice. It’s an easy stovetop recipe serving four, great for a comforting yet elegant weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Scampi
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season and Sauté Chicken: Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sauté for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Scampi Sauce: Reduce heat to medium in the same skillet and add remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to slightly reduce and intensify flavors. Stir in chopped parsley.
- Finish Chicken in Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to thoroughly coat in the garlic-lemon sauce. Keep warm on low heat.
- Cook Rice: While the chicken simmers, bring chicken broth and rice to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender and broth is absorbed.
- Make Creamy Parmesan Rice: Once rice is cooked, stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Spoon the creamy garlic Parmesan rice onto plates. Top generously with the lemon-garlic chicken scampi. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lower-carb alternative, serve the chicken over cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables.
- Using pre-cooked rice can speed up preparation; simply stir it into the cream and Parmesan until heated through.
- If white wine is not available, chicken broth works perfectly and keeps the dish flavorful.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- Fresh parsley adds brightness, but dried parsley can be substituted if fresh is unavailable.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 585
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
