Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delightful one-pan meal that perfectly balances flavors and textures. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish combines juicy chicken with buttery, cheesy rice that’s enriched with garlic and a splash of white wine. The crispy breadcrumbs on top add a satisfying crunch, making it a comforting and impressive choice for any table.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken Scampi:
• For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
• For Garnish
• How to Make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
• Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
• Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
• Step 3: Cook the Rice
• Step 4: Finish & Serve
• How to Serve Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• Pair with a Salad
• Serve with Crusty Bread
• Add a Splash of Wine
• How to Perfect Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
• Reheating Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?
• How do I make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice creamy?
• Can I customize my Chicken Scampi?
• How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
• Can I use different types of rice?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: This dish is prepared in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of garlic, lemon, and white wine creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the chicken and rice.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in about 40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a hearty main course or pair it with a side salad for a lighter option.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich flavors and comforting textures, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to get started on your Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for sautéing the chicken evenly while allowing enough space to cook the rice properly.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient portions for consistent results every time.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Useful for stirring without scratching your skillet’s surface.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Scampi:

• 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into 2-inch strips
• Salt, to taste
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:

• 1 stick butter
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 6 cloves)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt, divided
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice (jasmine or long-grain)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
• 2 tablespoons crispy toasted breadcrumbs(optional, for garnish)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

PIN THIS!

How to Make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

1. Season the chicken strips with salt, lemon pepper seasoning, and garlic powder.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, remove from the skillet and cover to keep warm.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and ½ teaspoon salt. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the white wine and allow it to cook for about 5 minutes until it reduces by half.
4. Add fresh lemon juice to the mixture and reserve 2 tablespoons of this sauce for later use.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

1. Add uncooked rice, chicken broth, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt into the skillet.
2. Bring everything to a boil; then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
3. Stir occasionally until the rice is tender.

Step 4: Finish & Serve

1. Stir grated Parmesan cheese into the cooked rice until well combined.
2. Return cooked chicken to the skillet by placing it on top of the rice.
3. Drizzle reserved garlic butter sauce over everything before covering again for about 5 minutes to meld flavors.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley and optional crispy toasted breadcrumbs before serving immediately.

Enjoy this hearty Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice that brings comfort and flavor in every bite!

How to Serve Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Serving Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only hearty but also allows for creativity in presentation and pairings.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Lemon Zest: Add a touch of lemon zest to enhance the citrus notes in the dish.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the rich flavors of chicken scampi with a crisp, refreshing crunch.
• Arugula Salad: Toss arugula with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a light, peppery side.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining garlic butter sauce.
• Baguette Slices: Serve toasted baguette slices brushed with olive oil as an elegant option.

Add a Splash of Wine

• Chilled White Wine: A glass of dry white wine pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water with lemon slices to cleanse the palate.

How to Perfect Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Getting your Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice just right is simple with a few helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning: Ensure you season the chicken well before cooking for maximum flavor. Salt and lemon pepper work wonders!
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh garlic and herbs whenever possible to enhance the taste and aroma of your dish.
• Proper heat control: Sauté the chicken over medium heat for even cooking without burning. Adjust heat as needed during cooking.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking. This helps retain its juices and keeps it tender.
• Use quality rice: Opt for jasmine or long-grain rice for better texture. It absorbs flavors well and cooks perfectly fluffy.
• Taste as you cook: Adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process. This ensures it’s just right when serving.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Complementing your Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is easy with these delicious side dishes.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious green element that balances the richness of the meal.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil and roast until tender for a flavorful, elegant side.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Season zucchini slices and grill them to add smoky flavors that pair well with this dish.
5. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the chicken scampi.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies can be a protein-packed alternative that complements the rice nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid those pitfalls.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to use salt and lemon pepper generously to enhance the chicken.
• Skipping the resting time: Not letting the dish sit after cooking can prevent flavors from melding. Allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.
• Using the wrong rice: Not all rice works well in this recipe. Stick with jasmine or long-grain white rice for the best texture and taste.
• Neglecting to reserve sauce: Forgetting to set aside part of the garlic butter sauce can lead to a less flavorful final dish. Always save some for drizzling on top before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• This dish is not recommended for freezing as it may become mushy when thawed.
• If necessary, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months but be aware of texture changes.

Reheating Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth to a skillet over medium heat, then add leftovers and stir until heated.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delicious one-pan meal featuring sautéed chicken served over a flavorful garlic butter rice infused with cheese.

How do I make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice creamy?

To achieve creaminess, incorporate freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the rice while it’s still warm, allowing it to melt and blend well.

Can I customize my Chicken Scampi?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or swap chicken for shrimp if you prefer seafood scampi.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, check that it’s no longer pink inside.

Can I use different types of rice?

While jasmine or long-grain white rice is preferred, you could experiment with other types like basmati or brown rice, but cooking times may vary.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish is sure to impress family and friends. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins!

---