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If you are on the hunt for a comforting, flavorful dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi Recipe will quickly become your go-to. Tender chicken tenderloins cooked to golden perfection combined with a rich, garlicky butter sauce infused with white wine and a touch of red pepper flakes creates a symphony of flavors that will delight every bite. The luscious Parmesan cheese-infused rice not only soaks up all those beautiful juices but also adds that creamy, nutty finish that truly brings the dish together. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi Recipe is a perfect balance of hearty and elegant, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role: the chicken delivers a tender, savory base, while garlic, butter, and Parmesan work harmoniously to create an irresistible sauce that coats the rice and chicken beautifully.
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins: Choose fresh tenderloins for quick cooking and juicy results.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Season generously to bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlicky undertone to the chicken before cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken to golden perfection without sticking.
- 1 stick butter (1/2 cup): The star for a rich, creamy sauce base that carries all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons fresh minced garlic: Fresh garlic brings that irresistible aroma that defines scampi.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just enough heat to give the sauce a delightful kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors perfectly within the sauce.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine: Use a Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or Sauvignon Blanc for a bright, crisp depth.
- 3 1/2 cups chicken broth: Keeps the rice moist and infuses it with savory richness.
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice: Absorbs the flavorful sauce while providing a comforting texture.
- 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a creamy, nutty layer that elevates the dish beautifully.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a bright, fresh pop of color and flavor at the end.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi Recipe
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken tenderloins evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the chicken until it’s cooked through and lightly browned, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes. This step locks in those juicy flavors and creates a beautiful golden crust. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside—don’t worry, it’s about to get even better!
Step 2: Prepare the Flavorful Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add fresh minced garlic and let it sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until your kitchen smells heavenly and the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Now stir in the red pepper flakes, salt, white wine, and chicken broth. Allow everything to simmer gently so the flavors can meld and the sauce reduces just a bit to intensify the taste. Remember to reserve about 2 tablespoons of this sauce for drizzling over the finished dish later—this little touch makes all the difference!
Step 3: Cook the Rice Right in the Sauce
To keep things simple and full of flavor, add the uncooked white rice directly to the sauce in the skillet. Stir it briefly so every grain is coated with that rich, buttery liquid. Bring everything to a simmer, then cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. This should take about 18 to 20 minutes and produces perfectly flavored, fluffy rice that’s the perfect companion for your chicken.
Step 4: Finish and Assemble
Once the rice is tender and delicious, sprinkle the fresh grated Parmesan cheese on top and stir it in until it melts through and creates a creamy texture. Arrange your cooked chicken tenderloins over the cheesy rice, then drizzle the reserved sauce over the chicken for an extra layer of luscious flavor. Cover the skillet and let everything rest for a few minutes so the flavors marry beautifully. Before serving, don’t forget to add a little extra Parmesan and some fresh parsley for that final vibrant touch.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brightens the dish visually but adds a lovely fresh contrast to the rich, creamy sauce. Additional freshly grated Parmesan cheese is always welcome for those who can’t get enough of that nutty, cheesy flavor.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi Recipe is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but you can pair it with a crisp green salad for brightness or some roasted vegetables for added texture and flavor balance. A side of garlic bread also complements this dish perfectly if you want to soak up every last bit of that amazing sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or special occasion, serve the chicken over the Parmesan rice in individual ramekins or shallow bowls. Drizzle a little extra sauce over the top and garnish with a sprig of parsley or even a lemon wedge for a pop of color and acidity. It’s simple but impressive and sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting overnight, making it perfect for an easy next-day meal.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, though the texture of the rice might change slightly. Use freezer-safe containers, and freeze portions individually for best results. Consume within 2 months for optimal flavor and freshness.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi Recipe in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if it seems dry. This helps restore moisture without drying out the chicken or rice. Microwaving works too, but stirring halfway through ensures even heating.
FAQs
Can I use another type of rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! While white rice cooks perfectly in this recipe, you can also use jasmine or basmati rice for a different aroma. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust as needed.
What can I substitute for white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, a splash of extra chicken broth with a teaspoon of lemon juice adds a pleasant acidity that mimics the brightness wine would provide without overpowering the dish.
Is the red pepper flakes optional?
Yes, it is optional. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply omit the red pepper flakes. However, the small amount adds a subtle heat that balances the richness wonderfully.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
You can, but chicken tenderloins are preferred because they cook quickly and remain tender. If using chicken breasts, slice them thinly or butterfly to ensure even cooking and avoid dryness.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your chicken broth and Parmesan cheese do not contain any gluten additives. Always verify labels if cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the way this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi Recipe comes together—rich, comforting, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to become a beloved favorite. So grab those simple ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into a meal that feels like a delicious celebration of garlic, butter, and Parmesan magic. You’ll be so glad you did!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A rich and flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi recipe featuring tender chicken tenderloins sautéed and simmered in a luscious garlic butter sauce with white wine, served over perfectly cooked Parmesan-infused rice. This comforting one-pan meal is ideal for a satisfying dinner with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce and Rice
- 1 stick butter (1/2 cup)
- 2 tablespoons fresh minced garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 3 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
- 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season and Cook Chicken: Season the chicken tenderloins evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the chicken for about 6-8 minutes until fully cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the fresh minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the red pepper flakes, salt, white wine, and chicken broth. Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce slightly. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of this sauce for drizzling later.
- Cook the Rice: Add the uncooked rice directly to the skillet with the remaining sauce. Stir briefly to coat the rice, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid, approximately 18-20 minutes.
- Finish the Dish: Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over it and stir well to combine. Arrange the cooked chicken on top of the rice and drizzle the reserved sauce over the chicken. Cover the skillet and let the dish stand for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with additional Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- For best flavor, use a dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a milder taste.
- Make sure to cover and cook the rice on low simmer to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor, but pre-grated can be used in a pinch.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for no heat.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
