This Easy Chicken Scampi is a treat! Juicy chicken coated in a buttery garlic sauce pairs perfectly with fluffy Parmesan rice for a meal that’s bursting with flavor.
What’s not to love? 😄 I just love how quick it is to make this dish—perfect for those busy nights when you want something yummy without all the fuss!
I often serve this with a side of veggies for a colorful plate. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens while enjoying that delicious garlic flavor. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect because they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re looking for a quicker option, chicken tenders work well too!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use garlic powder in a pinch! About 1 teaspoon of garlic powder equals a clove.
White Wine: This adds depth to the sauce. If you prefer not to use wine, just replace it with more chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for a bit of acidity.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor and texture. You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or even Nutritional Yeast for a dairy-free option!
How Do You Make Fluffy Garlic Parmesan Rice?
To get perfect garlic Parmesan rice, the sautéing step is super important. This helps coat the rice in flavor before it cooks. Just remember to keep an eye on it!
- Start by melting the butter and then adding minced garlic to sauté until fragrant. This will infuse the butter with garlic flavor.
- When you add rice, mix it well to ensure every grain is coated.
- Make sure to let it simmer covered on low heat; this traps steam and helps cook the rice evenly.
Lastly, don’t forget to add Parmesan cheese at the end for that creamy goodness! This also helps fluff up the rice as you stir it in.
Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Scampi:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional; can substitute with more chicken broth)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as jasmine or basmati)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water with bouillon)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend a little time on prep and cooking, which makes it a perfect quick dinner option!
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 for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the rice and stir well to coat it in the garlic butter.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed. After that, take it off the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to your taste, and keep warm.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Scampi Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn. Then, pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using) and bring it to a simmer.
Stir in the lemon juice and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Let the sauce simmer and reduce slightly for about 3-4 minutes. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over it to coat. Let everything cook together for another 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors. Finally, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the chicken.
4. Serve:
Now it’s time to enjoy your meal! Plate a generous scoop of garlic Parmesan rice, add the cooked chicken breasts on top, and spoon extra scampi sauce over everything. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with additional parsley. Dig in and enjoy your flavorful Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice!
This recipe serves about 4 and is perfect for a quick, comforting weeknight dinner. Enjoy! 😊
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw chicken in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quicker method. Pat dry before seasoning and cooking!
Can I Substitute the Rice?
Absolutely! If you want a different grain, try quinoa or farro for a healthier option. You can even use a pre-cooked rice mix to save time—just heat it as per package instructions and add the garlic and Parmesan for flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep things moist.
Is There a Vegetarian Option for This Dish?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, use sautéed mushrooms or extra veggies in place of the chicken. You can also make a similar garlic butter sauce and serve it over the rice for a delicious meat-free meal!
