Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this dish. All chicken cuts work in a pinch, so thighs are a great alternative if you prefer darker meat.

Garlic: Fresh garlic gives this recipe wonderful flavor. If you don’t have fresh, 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove can work as a substitute.

White Wine: This adds depth to the sauce. Use chicken broth instead if you want to skip the wine—just add a bit of vinegar or lemon juice for acidity.

Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is a must for flavor. You can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or nutritional yeast if you want a dairy-free option.

How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?

Getting the chicken just right is key for this recipe. Here’s how you do it:

• Start with chicken at room temperature for even cooking.
• Season well with salt and pepper on both sides.
• Cook over medium-high heat until golden brown on each side (5-6 minutes).
• Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
• Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing, as this keeps the juices inside.

What’s the Best Way to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice?

This rice recipe is super creamy and flavorful. Follow these steps for perfect results:

• Melt butter and sauté garlic first to infuse the flavor before adding rice.
• Stir the rice while coating it in the garlic butter for better texture.
• Using chicken broth instead of water elevates the flavor significantly.
• Let it rest after cooking; this allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid and get creamy.

Enjoy this easy-to-make and delicious Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice—it’s sure to please everyone at the table!

Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken Scampi:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional; you can substitute with more broth if preferred)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This scrumptious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes making the garlic parmesan rice and 20 minutes cooking the chicken in a delicious garlic butter sauce. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any night of the week!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice:

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, add the rice and stir to coat the grains with that yummy garlic butter. Pour in the chicken broth, season it with a bit of salt and pepper, and bring it all to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the broth is absorbed. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Cover again and let it rest while you work on the chicken.

2. Prepare the Chicken Scampi:

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook until they’re golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Make the Scampi Sauce:

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and the minced garlic; cook them for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning. Next, pour in the chicken broth and, if you’re using it, the white wine. Bring it to a simmer. Stir in the lemon juice and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes to reduce and thicken a bit.

4. Combine and Serve:

Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, and make sure to spoon some of that delicious sauce over the top. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley over the chicken for some extra flavor and color. Serve the chicken alongside a generous scoop of garlic Parmesan rice. Don’t forget to garnish with extra parsley and maybe a slice of lemon for a lovely touch!

Enjoy this flavorful and comforting Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice!

FAQ for Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for quicker thawing.

What Can I Substitute for White Wine in the Sauce?

If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of chicken broth. Adding a splash of vinegar or more lemon juice can help maintain some acidity!

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth or water if needed to keep it moist.

Can I Make the Garlic Parmesan Rice Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rice a day in advance. Just reheat it gently in a saucepan with a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back its creamy consistency before serving.