Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Ever crave something restaurant-quality that you can whip up at home without breaking a sweat? This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is your ticket to a dinner that’s rich in flavor, packed with texture, and unbelievably easy to pull together. It’s got that buttery, garlicky goodness you love from shrimp scampi, but we’ve swapped the shrimp for tender, golden-seared chicken and paired it with a creamy, cheesy rice that soaks up all the delicious sauce. You’re gonna love this.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?

This dish checks all the boxes:

• Easy enough for a weeknight
• Fancy enough to serve guests
• Packed with flavor (think garlic, lemon, Parmesan, and herbs)
• Made with simple ingredients
• Kid-friendly and picky-eater approved

Whether you’re looking to impress or just need something comforting, this is the recipe that delivers.

Who This chicken scampi with garlic parmesan rice Recipe Is Perfect For

If you’re a busy parent, a college student trying to level up your dinner game, or someone who just appreciates a good garlic-forward dish, this one’s for you. It’s also great for those who want a recipe that doesn’t require a mile-long list of ingredients or advanced cooking techniques.

What Is Chicken Scampi?

Chicken Scampi is a cozy, garlicky twist on the classic shrimp scampi. Instead of seafood, we use tender chicken breasts, seared to golden perfection, then tossed in a buttery lemon-garlic sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Traditionally, “scampi” refers to a garlic-butter sauce often used with shrimp, but this chicken version is just as satisfying—especially when paired with something creamy like garlic parmesan rice.

Think of it as the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet vibe—perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels a little extra. It’s simple, fast, and made with ingredients you probably already have at home: olive oil, butter, garlic, broth, lemon, and a sprinkle of parmesan. No fuss, just flavor.

Whether you’re new to cooking or just looking for a dish that delivers every single time, chicken scampi is one of those recipes that checks all the boxes: easy, tasty, and impossible not to love.

How to Make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?

Ingredients Overview

Here’s what you’ll need for chicken scampi with garlic parmesan rice. Nothing fancy—just the classics done right.

Chicken Scampi Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup dry white wine (or sub with more broth)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan for garnish

Garlic Parmesan Rice Ingredients

• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Medium saucepan (for rice)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Citrus juicer (optional, but helpful)

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

• Start by slicing your chicken breasts thinly—about ½ inch thick for even cooking.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Sear the chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
• Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Making the Scampi Sauce

• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add remaining butter.
• Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
• Pour in the white wine and chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those brown bits (that’s flavor!).
• Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.
• Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley.
• Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat.

Step 3: Cooking the Garlic Parmesan Rice

• In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
• Stir in rice and toast it for 1–2 minutes until slightly golden.
• Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover.
• Simmer for 15 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
• Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Bringing It All Together

• Scoop a generous portion of garlic Parmesan rice onto your plate.
• Top with the juicy, saucy chicken scampi.
• Garnish with more parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
• Optional: serve with a lemon wedge for a fresh pop.

Tips for Success

Time-Saving Tips

• Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for an ultra-fast version.
• Mince garlic in advance and store in the fridge for up to a week.

Flavor-Boosting Tips

• Add a splash of cream to the scampi sauce for richness.
• Toast the rice in garlic butter longer for a nuttier flavor.
• Want more depth? Add a pinch of Italian seasoning or a splash of soy sauce.

Recipe Swaps and Variations

Low-Carb Option

Swap the rice with cauliflower rice! Just sauté in garlic butter and finish with Parmesan for a keto-friendly version.

Vegetarian Twist

Ditch the chicken and replace with sautéed mushrooms or crispy tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Spice It Up!

Add extra red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce. You could even top with a drizzle of chili oil.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• You can store chicken scampi with garlic parmesan rice in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to keep it from drying out.
• This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cheese, but the chicken and rice separately can freeze okay for up to 1 month.

Food and Drink Pairings

• Drink: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the lemony scampi.
• Side: A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus works wonders.
• Bread: Garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the extra sauce is a must.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a knockout combo of comfort and elegance. It’s easy, versatile, and perfect for just about any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy Tuesday night or treating yourself to a solo gourmet dinner, this recipe delivers every time.

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FAQs

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and add even more flavor. Just adjust cook time slightly.

Q2: What if I don’t have white wine?
No problem. Use more chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice to replicate the acidity.

Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes—skip the cheese and use olive oil instead of butter. You’ll lose a bit of creaminess, but the flavors will still shine.

Q4: Is this dish spicy?
Not inherently. The red pepper flakes add a subtle kick, but you can omit them for a milder version.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, easily! Just use a larger skillet and double all the ingredients proportionally