Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delicious twist on a classic favorite that brings bold flavors to your dinner table. This dish combines tender chicken sautéed in a garlicky buttery sauce with perfectly cooked rice infused with Parmesan cheese and fresh garlic. It’s comfort food with a touch of elegance that’s easy enough for weeknight meals yet impressive enough for guests.
We love how the rich, savory notes of the chicken scampi pair beautifully with the creamy, cheesy rice, creating a satisfying and well-balanced meal. Plus, it comes together quickly using simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Whether you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine or impress family and friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that won’t disappoint.
Ingredients
To create our delicious Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, we use simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component brings a unique taste to this rich and elegant dish.
For the Chicken Scampi
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth as a substitute)
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
| Ingredient Group | Key Ingredients | Quantities |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Scampi | Chicken breasts, butter, garlic | 1 lb, 4 tbsp, 4 cloves |
| White wine, red pepper flakes | 1/4 cup, 1/2 tsp | |
| Olive oil, lemon juice, parsley | 2 tbsp, 1 tbsp, 2 tbsp | |
| Garlic Parmesan Rice | White rice, chicken broth, garlic | 1 cup, 2 cups, 3 cloves |
| Parmesan cheese, butter, seasonings | 1/2 cup, 2 tbsp, salt & pepper |
Let’s gather these fresh ingredients to ensure our Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice bursts with bold flavors in every bite.
Equipment Needed
To create our Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice perfectly, we need a few essential tools that help us achieve the ideal texture and flavor. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for searing the chicken breasts and preparing the buttery garlic sauce. A skillet with at least a 10-inch diameter allows ample space to cook evenly without overcrowding.
- Medium Saucepan: This is crucial for cooking the garlic Parmesan rice. A saucepan with a tight-fitting lid ensures even rice cooking and moisture retention.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements help balance the garlic, butter, and Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Chef’s Knife: We need these for dicing garlic, chopping fresh parsley, and slicing the chicken if desired.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the rice gently and scraping the pan to incorporate flavorful browned bits into the sauce.
- Grater: To grate fresh Parmesan cheese finely for the rice topping.
- Citrus Juicer or Hand Squeezer: To extract fresh lemon juice easily, enhancing the dish’s bright, zesty notes.
| Equipment | Purpose | Recommended Size/Type |
|---|---|---|
| Large Skillet or Sauté Pan | Searing chicken, making scampi sauce | 10-inch, heavy bottom |
| Medium Saucepan | Cooking garlic Parmesan rice | 2 to 3-quart, tight-fitting lid |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement | Standard US measuring set |
| Cutting Board & Chef’s Knife | Chopping garlic, parsley, slicing chicken | Medium wood/plastic board; 8-inch chef’s knife |
| Wooden Spoon or Spatula | Stirring rice, sauce mixing | Heat-resistant silicone or wood |
| Grater | Fresh Parmesan cheese | Box/grater or microplane |
| Citrus Juicer or Hand Squeezer | Extracting lemon juice | Handheld or manual reamer |
Using these tools ensures that each step of our Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe flows efficiently while preserving the quality and texture that make this dish a standout.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking our Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, it’s essential to prepare our ingredients clearly and efficiently. This careful prep work ensures a smooth cooking process and brings out the best flavors in every bite.
Preparing the Chicken
- Trim any excess fat from the boneless skinless chicken breasts. This helps achieve a tender, juicy texture.
- Slice the chicken breasts into even strips or bite-sized pieces about 1-inch thick for uniform cooking.
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to promote a golden sear during cooking.
- Season the chicken generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides to enhance flavor.
Preparing the Rice
- Rinse 1 cup long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch for fluffier rice.
- Measure 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth as the cooking liquid to infuse the rice with rich, savory flavor.
- Grate 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese and set aside for stirring in at the final stage.
- Have 2 tablespoons unsalted butter ready to add richness after cooking.
- Prepare a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper for seasoning the rice just before serving.
| Rice Ingredients | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Long-grain white rice | 1 cup | Rinsed well |
| Low-sodium chicken broth | 2 cups | Cooking liquid for flavor |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons | Adds richness |
| Freshly grated Parmesan | 1/2 cup | Stirred in at the end |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | For seasoning |
Mince Garlic and Chop Parsley
- Peel and finely mince 6 cloves of garlic. Garlic is the star flavor, so we want it finely chopped to release all its aromatic oils.
- Rinse 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves and pat dry with a kitchen towel.
- Chop parsley finely to sprinkle over the finished dish for a fresh, vibrant touch and appealing color contrast.
By completing this prep work, we’re setting ourselves up to create a delicious, perfectly balanced Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice that delivers bold flavor and satisfying texture.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s dive into preparing our Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice by mastering each component step-by-step. We’ll start with the garlic Parmesan rice to ensure it’s perfectly creamy and flavorful before moving on to the tender chicken scampi.
How to Cook the Garlic Parmesan Rice
- Rinse the Rice: Begin by rinsing 1 cup of long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes surface starch for fluffier rice.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Toast the Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes to toast the rice lightly, enhancing its nutty flavor.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish with Parmesan: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese and an additional 1 tablespoon of butter to create a creamy texture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Let it Rest: Cover and let the rice rest for 5 minutes to settle and fully develop flavor. Fluff with a fork before serving.
How to Make the Chicken Scampi
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat dry 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts sliced into even pieces. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, cooking 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
- Build the Scampi Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add 4 cloves minced garlic and ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth to deglaze, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until liquid reduces by half.
- Add Butter and Lemon: Stir in 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer another 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine and Heat Through: Return the chicken to the skillet, coating each piece with the buttery sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley over the chicken scampi for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately alongside garlic Parmesan rice.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Long-grain white rice | 1 cup | Rinsed before cooking |
| Low-sodium chicken broth | 2 cups | For cooking rice |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons | Divided for rice and chicken |
| Garlic | 6 cloves | Minced, divided |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup | Freshly grated |
| Boneless skinless chicken breasts | 1.5 lbs | Sliced and seasoned |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | For searing chicken |
| Dry white wine or chicken broth | ½ cup | For deglazing |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tablespoons | Adds brightness to sauce |
| Crushed red pepper flakes | ¼ teaspoon | Adds mild heat |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons | Chopped for garnish |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Essential seasoning |
Together these steps combine to deliver a harmonious dish where rich, buttery, and garlicky chicken scampi meets creamy, cheesy Parmesan rice.
Assembly and Serving
Bringing together our Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice perfectly showcases the dish’s vibrant flavors and textures. With thoughtful plating and garnishing, we create a visually stunning and appetizing meal.
Plating the Chicken Scampi Over Garlic Parmesan Rice
We start by placing a generous scoop of creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice at the center of each plate. This forms a rich, flavorful base. Next, we gently arrange the tender Chicken Scampi pieces on top of the rice. Make sure to drizzle the buttery garlic sauce evenly over both the chicken and rice to lock in the bold, aromatic flavors.
To ensure balanced portions and an appealing look:
| Component | Portion Size per Serving | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic Parmesan Rice | ¾ cup | Fluffy and creamy with Parmesan |
| Chicken Scampi (sliced) | 4-5 pieces | Golden brown, tender, saucy |
| Scampi Sauce | 2 tbsp | Buttery garlic sauce with lemon zest |
By layering the components this way, we highlight the contrast between the tender chicken and cheesy rice while unifying the dish under the irresistible garlic sauce.
Garnishing Tips
A well-chosen garnish elevates this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice to restaurant-quality elegance. We recommend:
- Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled generously for bright color and herbaceous aroma.
- A light squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top to add a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Optional red pepper flakes sprinkled for a subtle kick, enhancing the depth of flavor.
- A few delicate lemon zest strips to visually brighten and enhance the citrus notes in the scampi sauce.
As Julia Child said: “A garnish should never overpower the dish but should enhance and invite.” By keeping garnishes fresh and balanced, we maintain the harmony of bold garlic, Parmesan creaminess, and vibrant lemon notes.
We serve this hearty yet elegant dish immediately, ensuring the rice stays creamy and the chicken warm and tender for an unforgettable dining experience.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Preparing Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice ahead of time allows us to enjoy this flavorful dish with minimal effort on busy days. Here are our top tips to ensure the best taste and texture when making this recipe in advance and storing leftovers properly.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Cook the Garlic Parmesan Rice separately and allow it to cool completely before storing. This prevents excess moisture that can make the rice mushy.
- Prepare the Chicken Scampi sauce and chicken, then combine just before serving to maintain the chicken’s tenderness.
- For easy reheating, keep the rice and chicken scampi in separate airtight containers.
Storage Guidelines
| Item | Storage Method | Refrigerator Duration | Freezer Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Scampi | Airtight container | 3 to 4 days | Up to 2 months |
| Garlic Parmesan Rice | Airtight container | 3 to 5 days | Up to 2 months |
Pro tip: Label containers with the date cooked to track freshness and avoid food waste.
Reheating Instructions
- For best results, gently reheat the rice on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to restore creaminess.
- Warm the chicken scampi in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the garlic butter sauce rich and silky.
- Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it can dry out the chicken and alter the sauce texture. If microwaving, use short bursts at medium power and stir in between.
Additional Tips
- Do not freeze rice that has been left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacteria growth.
- When making this dish ahead for meal prep, portion servings into containers to streamline weekly lunches or dinners.
- Fresh parsley garnish and a squeeze of lemon juice added just before serving will revitalize flavors and brighten the dish.
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, we keep our Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice tasting fresh, tender, and packed with the bold garlicky, buttery flavors that make this recipe a favorite.
Conclusion
This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe brings together rich flavors and comforting textures in a way that’s both approachable and impressive. It’s a versatile dish that fits perfectly into our busy weeknight routines or when we want to treat ourselves to something special.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, we can easily create a meal that feels gourmet without the fuss. Whether we’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite that satisfies every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?
Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a flavorful dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a garlicky buttery sauce paired with creamy Parmesan-infused rice. It combines rich flavors for an easy yet elegant meal suitable for any occasion.
What ingredients are needed for the Chicken Scampi part?
You’ll need boneless skinless chicken breasts, unsalted butter, garlic, dry white wine (or chicken broth), crushed red pepper flakes, olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh parsley.
What ingredients are used for the Garlic Parmesan Rice?
Long-grain white rice, low-sodium chicken broth, garlic, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, butter, and seasonings are used to create the creamy, cheesy rice.
What kitchen equipment is essential for making this recipe?
A large skillet or sauté pan, medium saucepan, measuring cups and spoons, cutting board, sharp chef’s knife, wooden spoon or spatula, grater for Parmesan, and citrus juicer are recommended.
How should I prep the chicken before cooking?
Trim excess fat, slice the chicken evenly, pat dry, and season with salt and pepper for even cooking and enhanced flavor.
What is the best method to cook the Garlic Parmesan Rice?
Rinse the rice, sauté garlic in butter, toast the rice, add broth, cook until done, and finish with Parmesan cheese for creamy texture.
How do I make the Chicken Scampi sauce?
Sear the chicken, sauté garlic in butter and olive oil, deglaze the pan with white wine or broth, add lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and parsley, then combine with the chicken.
What is the ideal way to serve this dish?
Plate a generous scoop of Garlic Parmesan Rice, top with chicken, drizzle the buttery garlic sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley and optional lemon zest or red pepper flakes.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, cook rice separately and cool before storing. Keep the chicken and sauce separate until serving to maintain tenderness and quality.
How should I store leftovers of Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?
Store rice and chicken separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture and flavor.