This Easy Chicken Scampi is a delightful dish with tender chicken cooked in a garlicky, buttery sauce. The best part? It comes with creamy Parmesan rice that’s simply irresistible!
Who doesn’t love a meal that’s both tasty and easy? I often find myself going back for seconds, especially for that garlic rice. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! 😊
I appreciate how quickly this comes together. Just sautéing some chicken and making that rice, and dinner is ready! It’s perfect for busy nights or when I want to impress friends without fussing too much.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish due to their quick cooking time. If you’re looking for a healthier or cheaper alternative, try using chicken thighs instead; they stay moist and flavorful.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a star here! If you have garlic powder on hand, you could use that in a pinch (1/8 teaspoon per clove). However, fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
White Wine: While the white wine adds depth, don’t worry if you don’t have it. Just double the chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version that works perfectly!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is essential for that rich creaminess in the rice. If you’re dairy-free, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
To cook the chicken just right and avoid dryness, focus on a few details:
- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed.
- Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps seal in the juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
By keeping an eye on these steps, you’ll have tender, juicy chicken in your scampi!
Easy Chicken Scampi With Garlic Parmesan Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Scampi:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips or bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional, can substitute with extra chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy chicken scampi recipe takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and an additional 20 minutes cooking the chicken and rice. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and makes your rice fluffy. In a medium saucepan, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1-2 minutes until you can smell that yummy garlic aroma but don’t let it brown. Next, add the rinsed rice and stir to coat the grains in the butter and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Once done, remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s all melted and creamy. Keep it covered and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken Scampi:
While the rice is cooking, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until they’re golden brown and fully cooked, stirring occasionally. Now add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook it for another minute until it’s fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, white wine (if you’re using it), and fresh lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and let it cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly and meld the flavors together. Stir in the unsalted butter until it’s melted and the sauce becomes silky smooth, then add in the chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
3. Serve:
To serve, spoon the Garlic Parmesan Rice onto individual plates. Top it generously with the Chicken Scampi. If you’re feeling fancy, add a sprinkle of extra parsley on top for color. Enjoy your delicious meal right away!
Dig in and savor your tasty, easy-to-make Chicken Scampi with creamy garlic Parmesan rice! It’s bound to impress everyone at your table. 😊
FAQ for Easy Chicken Scampi With Garlic Parmesan Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to fully thaw it first! Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option. Once thawed, you can proceed with the recipe as normal!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free chicken broth. Just ensure that any additional ingredients, like the wine (if using), are also gluten-free. The rice used is usually gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure!
Can I Meal Prep This Dish?
Absolutely! You can prepare both the Chicken Scampi and Garlic Parmesan Rice in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth to the rice for moisture if needed.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve With This?
This Chicken Scampi pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a lighter meal. If you’re looking for more carbs, garlic bread or crusty rolls are also great for sopping up the delicious sauce!
