Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delightful, one-pan meal that perfectly balances flavors and textures. Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish features juicy chicken sautéed to golden perfection and served over creamy rice infused with white wine, garlic, and lemon. With crispy breadcrumbs and fresh parsley on top, this recipe is sure to impress.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken Scampi:
• For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
• For Garnish
• How to Make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
• Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
• Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
• Step 3: Cook the Rice
• Step 4: Finish & Serve
• How to Serve Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
• Family-Style Platter
• Individual Bowls
• With a Fresh Salad
• As Leftovers
• How to Perfect Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
• Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
• Reheating Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?
• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
• What should I serve with Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?
• How do I customize the flavor of my Chicken Scampi?
• Can I make this dish gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This dish comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, white wine, and Parmesan creates a rich and comforting flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests; it fits any occasion!
• Quick Cooking Time: With a total time of only 40 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves the combination of chicken and cheesy rice, making it great for all ages.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather the following essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides enough space to sauté chicken evenly while cooking the rice simultaneously.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient amounts for consistent flavor every time.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife allows for safe and efficient cutting of chicken and garlic.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Scampi:

• 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into 2-inch strips
• Salt, to taste
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:

• 1 stick butter
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 6 cloves)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt, divided
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice (jasmine or long-grain)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons crispy toasted breadcrumbs (optional)

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How to Make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Season the chicken strips with salt, lemon pepper seasoning, and garlic powder. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, remove from the skillet and cover to keep warm.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and ½ teaspoon salt. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the white wine and cook for approximately 5 minutes to allow it to reduce by half. Add fresh lemon juice and stir well; reserve 2 tablespoons of this sauce for later use.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Add uncooked rice, chicken broth, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt into the skillet. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the rice is tender.

Step 4: Finish & Serve

Stir grated Parmesan cheese into the rice until well combined. Return cooked chicken on top of the rice in the skillet. Drizzle with reserved garlic butter sauce. Cover again and let sit for about 5 minutes to meld flavors together. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley and optional crispy toasted breadcrumbs before serving! Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Serving Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delightful experience that brings together flavors and textures. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.

Family-Style Platter

• Arrange the chicken and rice on a large serving platter.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and crispy breadcrumbs for an inviting look.

Individual Bowls

• Serve the chicken scampi in individual bowls.
• Top each portion with extra garlic butter sauce for added flavor.

With a Fresh Salad

• Pair the dish with a light green salad.
• Use a lemon vinaigrette to complement the flavors of the chicken scampi.

As Leftovers

• Reheat the chicken and rice for a quick meal.
• Add a splash of broth to maintain creaminess when reheating.

How to Perfect Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

For a flawless Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance flavor significantly.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Sauté just until golden brown to keep it juicy.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice for your preference.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit before serving helps meld flavors beautifully.
• Choose Quality Wine: A good white wine can elevate the overall taste of the sauce.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Pairing your Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice with delightful sides can enhance your meal. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, perfect for soaking up the rich garlic butter sauce.
2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing balances out the richness of the dish.
3. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious touch while providing color on your plate.
4. Roasted Asparagus
   Roasted asparagus spears offer a delicious crunch and complement the savory flavors perfectly.
5. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that contrasts nicely with the warm rice.
6. Grilled Zucchini
   Simple grilled zucchini is easy to prepare and adds another layer of flavor to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, it’s easy to overlook a few details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and spices before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can dry it out. Sauté until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
• Not letting the rice rest: Serving immediately after cooking can result in a mushy texture. Allow the rice to sit covered for a few minutes to absorb flavors.
• Using low-quality wine: Using poor-quality wine can affect the taste of your dish. Choose a good dry white wine for the best flavor.
• Neglecting to measure ingredients: Guessing measurements can lead to imbalanced flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Best used within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat in a skillet with a splash of broth until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?

To make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, sauté seasoned chicken until golden brown, prepare garlic butter sauce, then cook rice in chicken broth before combining everything together.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but cooking times will vary. Adjust by adding extra liquid and cooking longer until tender.

What should I serve with Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I customize the flavor of my Chicken Scampi?

You can customize by adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes or increasing spices for more heat.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your wine is free from any gluten content.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Give it a try!

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