This Easy Chicken Scampi features tender chicken in a buttery garlic sauce served over creamy garlic parmesan rice. It’s a warm, comforting dish that feels fancy but is super simple to whip up!
And let’s face it, who can resist that creamy rice? Every bite feels like a hug! I love making it for dinner when I want something quick but special. You’ll impress everyone, including yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, turkey breast is a great option. For a vegetarian twist, try using firm tofu or chickpeas as protein sources.
Garlic: Fresh garlic delivers the best flavor. However, if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute—use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove. I find fresh really brightens the dish, though!
White Wine: I love using dry white wine for a touch of acidity. If you want to skip alcohol, replace it with more chicken broth or even a splash of lemon juice mixed with water for a similar effect.
Rice: Long-grain rice like basmati or jasmine gives a nice texture. Quinoa or cauliflower rice can work for a lower-carb option. Just adjust the cooking times according to the alternative you choose.
How Do You Get the Rice Creamy and Delicious?
Making creamy rice takes a bit of patience but is super rewarding! Here’s how to nail it:
- Melt butter and sauté garlic before adding rice. This step coats the rice and adds flavor.
- Use enough liquid! For fluffy rice, the right ratio is typically 2 parts liquid to 1 part rice. Here, you’re using broth, which adds even more taste.
- Don’t rush the cooking process! Keep it covered and let it simmer on low heat. This allows all the liquid to absorb properly.
Once the rice is cooked, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan. This is where the richness comes from. Stir gently to keep it light and fluffy!
Now you’re all set to make a fantastic Easy Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Scampi:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into strips or bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or additional chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (e.g., basmati or jasmine)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water with chicken bouillon)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 30-40 minutes total. You’ll spend about 15 minutes preparing the creamy garlic Parmesan rice while the chicken is being cooked and sauced, making it a quick and satisfying meal for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the rice to the saucepan and stir it around to coat each grain with the butter and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
2. Make it Creamy:
Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until everything is creamy and well combined. Keep it warm on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Cook the Chicken:
While the rice is cooking, season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook it until golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
4. Prepare the Scampi Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, pour in the chicken broth and white wine (or more chicken broth), making sure to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce by about half, which will take about 3-5 minutes.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Stir in the lemon juice and butter, allowing the butter to melt into the sauce. Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss everything together to make sure the chicken is nicely coated in the sauce. Heat through for another 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve:
To serve, spoon the creamy garlic Parmesan rice onto plates, top with the flavorful chicken scampi, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious and comforting meal!
Enjoy this delicious, creamy chicken scampi with the flavorful, cheesy rice — a perfect comforting meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, you can use the cold-water method: place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about an hour.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the rice and chicken scampi in advance! Cook everything, allow it to cool, then store in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the rice and chicken separately on the stove gently until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to freshen the rice.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally until heated evenly. If the rice seems dry, add a little broth or water to keep it creamy!
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make it gluten-free, ensure that the chicken broth and any other added ingredients (like wine) are gluten-free. Also, you can use gluten-free pasta instead of rice if you prefer! Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
