After a long day at work, I often crave something comforting and satisfying, yet simple to whip up. That’s when I turn to my go-to recipe: Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice. The first time I prepared this dish, I was amazed at how tender the chicken turned out, enveloped in a rich, garlic-butter sauce with hints of lemon—a combination that always lights up my kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
As steam rises from the pot of garlic-infused rice, I find myself unwinding, each spoonful making me forget the day’s worries. This recipe is not just quick; it’s a delightful way to elevate a weeknight dinner into something truly memorable without the fuss. Perfect for home cooks and food lovers who might be tired of the usual fast food options, each bite of this dish transports me to a cozy Italian restaurant, where indulgence comes without the guilt. Ready to dive into this culinary classic? Let’s get cooking!
Why Choose Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?
Comforting, this dish wraps you in flavor and warmth, making it perfect for any weeknight. Simple to prepare, even beginner cooks can whip this up in under thirty minutes, making dinner stress-free. Indulgent taste with garlicky, buttery notes paired with creamy rice elevates your meal. Endless variations, whether you swap in shrimp or toss in veggies, keep it exciting every time. Crowd-pleaser tendencies ensure everyone at your table will be asking for seconds! Enjoy a dinner that transforms ordinary evenings into extraordinary moments.
Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – These are the heart of the dish; slice them thin for even cooking.
• Get-R-Smoked Mike’s SPG All-Purpose Seasoning – This mix enhances flavor beautifully; feel free to use your go-to seasoning blend instead.
• Olive Oil Marketplace Parmesan Garlic EVOO – Adds depth to the dish; can be substituted with regular olive oil mixed with garlic.
For the Sauce
• Garlic (minced) – Fresh garlic provides a stronger flavor; skip the powdered stuff for the best results.
• Chicken Broth – This ingredient adds moisture and flavor; use homemade or a low-sodium store-bought option.
• Olive Oil Marketplace White Lemon Balsamic – Brightens the sauce beautifully; if unavailable, white vinegar with a splash of lemon juice works.
• Butter – A must for richness; choose salted or unsalted based on your preference.
• Fresh Parsley – A lovely garnish that adds color and freshness; basil makes a good substitute if needed.
For the Rice
• Long-Grain White Rice – Ensures a fluffy texture; consider swapping with brown rice for a healthier twist, but adjust cooking times as necessary.
• Parmesan Cheese (grated) – Infuses the rice with creamy umami flavor; Pecorino Romano can be used as an alternative.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to taste; make sure to adjust based on the saltiness of your broth.
How to Make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
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Prepare the Chicken: Season your thinly sliced chicken strips generously with Get-R-Smoked Mike’s SPG seasoning. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken and set aside.
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Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but not burned. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon balsamic, scraping the pan’s bottom to release flavorful bits. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes and stir in butter until it’s fully melted. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in that luscious sauce, then sprinkle with chopped parsley.
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Cook the Garlic Parmesan Rice: In a saucepan, combine long-grain white rice, chicken broth, and a bit of garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and fluffy. Once ready, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve: Plate a generous scoop of the creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice, and top it with the succulent chicken and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for a beautiful finish. Serve immediately and enjoy every bite!
Optional: Pair with a light arugula salad or warm garlic bread to complete the meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chicken Scampi
• Uniform Chicken Strips: Make sure to slice the chicken breasts into even strips for consistent cooking; this prevents some pieces from being overcooked while others remain underdone.
• Watch the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter, so sauté it until just fragrant—about one minute is usually enough.
• Flavor Booster: For added depth, marinating the chicken in your seasoning for 30 minutes prior to cooking can help enhance the overall flavor of your Chicken Scampi.
• Non-Stick Cooking: Utilize a non-stick skillet, or ensure your cast iron is well-seasoned. This helps keep the chicken from sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
• Rice Cooking Tip: Always follow the recommended cooking time for your specific rice variety to achieve the perfect fluffy texture in your Garlic Parmesan Rice; adjusting for brown rice, for instance, is key for moisture balance.
What to Serve with Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?
Transform your weeknight dinner into a delightful feast with the perfect side dishes that complement the rich flavors of this dish.
- Light Arugula Salad: A fresh, peppery arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the scampi beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is the ultimate side to soak up that luscious garlic butter sauce—pure comfort!
- Steamed Broccoli: Vibrant green steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch, balancing the creamy rice and enhancing the meal’s aesthetics.
- Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus sprinkled with parmesan brings a delightful twist while echoing the flavors of the dish.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs perfectly, enhancing the dish’s buttery flavors.
- Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing dessert, lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and provides a zesty finish to this comforting meal.
Each of these suggested sides not only enhances the meal but also elevates your dining experience, creating a vibrant table that invites joy and satisfaction.
Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these tempting tweaks and substitutions!
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Seafood Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a delightful seafood twist. Just cook the shrimp until pink and tender for the perfect bite.
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Vegetable Surprise: Stir in fresh spinach or asparagus for added color and nutrients. They’ll become tender in the pan, enhancing both flavor and texture.
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Quinoa Choice: Opt for quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free alternative. It adds a nutty flavor and nutrition boost, while cooking quickly under similar conditions.
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Creamy Addition: For an ultra-rich dish, stir in a touch of cream or cream cheese into the sauce before adding the chicken. The result is an extra-luscious bite.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil for a unique flavor profile. These fragrant additions elevate the dish to a new level of deliciousness.
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Heat It Up: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a spicy kick. This twist can bring an exciting heat balance to the creamy garlic sauce.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top before serving. Their crunch offers a delightful contrast to the soft rice and chicken.
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Citrus Zing: Add lemon or lime zest into the sauce for a refreshing zing. This bright touch will elevate the garlic flavor beautifully!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
• Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Scampi in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish has cooled to room temperature before sealing.
• Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze Chicken Scampi without the rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive the sauce. Ensure it’s heated through before serving.
• Rice Storage: Keep any leftover Garlic Parmesan Rice in a separate airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a bit of water or broth to restore moisture.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the chicken by seasoning it and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Additionally, you can prepare the garlic Parmesan rice in advance, keeping it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain its quality, be sure to add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to keep the rice creamy. When it’s time to serve, simply cook the chicken in a skillet as instructed, warm the rice gently on the stove, and enjoy a delightful meal with minimal effort!
Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are fresh and firm to the touch. Avoid any that have dark spots or an unusual odor. Thinly slicing the chicken will also help ensure even cooking, so aim for strips that are about half an inch thick.
How should I store leftover Chicken Scampi?
You can store leftover Chicken Scampi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to avoid moisture buildup. If you plan on enjoying it later, keep the rice separate to maintain its texture.
Can I freeze Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?
Yes, you can freeze the Chicken Scampi without the rice for optimal texture. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe container and it will keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove with a splash of chicken broth for best results.
What should I do if my garlic burns while cooking?
Very! If you notice that your garlic is starting to brown too quickly, immediately remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the garlic to a plate to stop the cooking process. Burned garlic can turn your dish bitter, so always sauté it on medium heat and keep a close eye on it for that lovely golden hue.
Is this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes, indeed! This Chicken Scampi recipe can be adjusted for various dietary needs. If you have a dairy allergy, substitute the butter and Parmesan cheese with plant-based alternatives. For a gluten-free option, use quinoa instead of long-grain rice and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.
Savor Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken strips with Get-R-Smoked Mike's SPG seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add chicken broth and lemon balsamic, scraping the pan to release bits. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes, then stir in butter until melted. Return chicken to skillet and coat with sauce, sprinkle with parsley.
- In a saucepan, combine long-grain rice, chicken broth, and garlic. Bring to boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender. Mix in grated Parmesan, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve rice on plates, topped with chicken and sauce. Garnish with parsley.