Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delicious one-pan meal that brings together juicy chicken and creamy rice. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish is not only flavorful but also easy to prepare. With its rich garlic butter sauce, cheesy rice, and crispy topping, it’s sure to impress your family and friends at any occasion.

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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
• Offer Bread Options
• 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
• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?
• What type of white wine is best for this recipe?
• How can I customize my Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• What should I serve alongside Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• One-Pan Wonder: You’ll only need one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
• Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of garlic, lemon, and Parmesan creates a comforting dish that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with a salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal or serve it as a hearty main course.
• Great for Leftovers: This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, gather your essential tools before you start cooking. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A wide surface allows for even cooking of chicken and rice without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your skillet’s surface.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for perfect flavor balance.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for prepping chicken strips and chopping garlic efficiently.

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons crispy toasted breadcrumbs (optional, for garnish)

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How to Make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

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

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, melt the stick of butter over medium heat.
Add in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and ½ teaspoon salt. Sauté these ingredients for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Then stir in the white wine and cook for about 5 minutes to allow it to reduce by half.
Don’t forget to add fresh lemon juice at this stage; reserve 2 tablespoons of this sauce for later use.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Now it’s time to add uncooked rice into the skillet along with chicken broth and remaining 1 teaspoon salt.
Bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover it up tightly, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stir once or twice during cooking until the rice is tender.

Step 4: Finish & Serve

Once your rice is cooked perfectly, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s well combined.
Return your cooked chicken back into the skillet on top of the rice mixture. Drizzle it all with reserved garlic butter sauce.
Finally, cover again and let sit for an additional 5 minutes so flavors can meld together beautifully.
Garnish with fresh parsley and optional crispy toasted breadcrumbs before serving immediately. Enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Serving Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is an enjoyable experience that can be enhanced by a few thoughtful touches. This dish is not just delicious; it’s visually appealing when paired with the right accompaniments.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze extra citrus over their servings.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a crunchy texture and complements the rich flavors of the scampi.
• Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens offer a refreshing contrast to the hearty rice.

Offer Bread Options

• Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce, adding an extra layer of garlicky goodness.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can also be served warm, providing a comforting addition to the meal.

How to Perfect Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Perfecting your Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality chicken will greatly enhance flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Sauté until just cooked through to retain moisture and tenderness.
• Adjust Seasoning Levels: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and lemon juice according to your preference.
• Let Flavors Meld: Allow the dish to sit covered after cooking so flavors can blend beautifully.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice can elevate your meal even further. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish well.

1. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a vibrant green contrast and adds nutrients.
2. Roasted Broccoli: Roasting broccoli brings out its natural sweetness and adds texture.
3. Caprese Salad: A refreshing Caprese salad featuring tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil balances the richness of the main dish.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes make for a comforting side that pairs nicely with the chicken.
5. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, sautéed zucchini noodles add freshness without heaviness.
6. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled veggies offers smoky flavors that complement the garlic in the scampi.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice experience.

• Overcooking the chicken: This can lead to dry meat. Cook until golden and just done, about 3-4 minutes per side.
• Ignoring the simmering time for rice: Not allowing rice to simmer properly can result in undercooked grains. Follow the recommended 15-20 minutes for best results.
• Skipping the garlic butter sauce: This sauce adds flavor and richness. Be sure to make and incorporate it fully into the dish.
• Using too much or too little salt: Balance is key! Measure salt carefully to enhance flavors without overpowering them.
• Not letting flavors meld: Allowing the dish to rest after cooking helps all the flavors combine beautifully. Don’t rush this step.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the dish is completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification later.

Reheating Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth and heat over medium-low, stirring gently until hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

What type of white wine is best for this recipe?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well, adding depth without overpowering other flavors.

How can I customize my Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?

You can add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge and reheats nicely, making it perfect for meal prep.

What should I serve alongside Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?

A simple side salad or steamed vegetables complement the dish beautifully without overwhelming its rich flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delicious one-pan meal that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. It’s versatile enough for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, allowing you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to give it a try!