Introduction
Transform your weeknight dinners with this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice that delivers all the luxurious flavors of Italian restaurant fare in one stunning skillet meal. Imagine tender chicken cutlets bathed in a lemony garlic butter sauce, served over creamy Parmesan-infused rice – it’s comfort food elevated to gourmet status with minimal effort. This dish proves you don’t need to visit a fancy trattoria to enjoy authentic Italian flavors.
Why This Dish Will Become Your New Favorite
30-minute meal from start to finish
One-pan wonder for easy cleanup
Crowd-pleasing flavors for adults and kids
Versatile base – easily adapt with shrimp or veggies
The magic happens when the crispy-edged chicken mingles with the vibrant pan sauce, creating layers of flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds. The garlic Parmesan rice soaks up every delicious drop, making this a complete meal in one beautiful presentation.
Ingredients for Culinary Success
For the Chicken Scampi
- 1.5 lbs chicken cutlets (or breasts pounded to ½” thickness)
- 3 tbsp butter (divided)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ tsp onion powder
Pro Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice
- Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat
- Sauté garlic 30 seconds until fragrant
- Add rice, toast 2 minutes until slightly translucent
- Pour in broth, bring to boil then reduce to simmer
- Cover and cook 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed
- Stir in Parmesan and season to taste
2. Cook the Chicken Scampi
- Season chicken with salt and pepper
- Heat 1 tbsp butter in large skillet over medium-high
- Sear chicken 3-4 minutes per side until golden
- Remove chicken and set aside
3. Make the Scampi Sauce
- In same skillet, melt remaining butter
- Sauté garlic 30 seconds (don’t let it burn!)
- Deglaze with wine, simmer 2 minutes
- Stir in lemon juice and zest
- Return chicken to pan, spoon sauce over top
4. Finish and Serve
- Slice chicken on diagonal
- Plate garlic Parmesan rice
- Arrange chicken over rice
- Spoon remaining sauce over everything
- Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Results
Pound chicken evenly for uniform cooking
Use cold butter for sauce to prevent separation
Add lemon zest first to release oils
Let rice rest 5 minutes after cooking
Serving Suggestions
Perfect Pairings:
- Roasted asparagus
- Garlic bread
- Simple green salad
Wine Pairing:
- Pinot Grigio (crisp)
- Chardonnay (buttery)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcrowding the pan when searing chicken
Using bottled lemon juice (fresh is essential)
Skipping the wine deglaze (builds flavor)
Overcooking the rice (aim for al dente)
Creative Variations
For Different Occasions:
- Shrimp scampi version: Substitute 1 lb large shrimp
- Mushroom lovers: Add sautéed cremini mushrooms
- Lighter option: Use cauliflower rice
FAQs
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Ensure your broth is GF-certified.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate for 3 days – reheat with splash of broth.
Q: Can I use brown rice?
A: Yes, but adjust liquid and cooking time accordingly.
Q: What if I don’t have wine?
A: Substitute with extra broth plus 1 tbsp white vinegar.
Conclusion
This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice proves that impressive meals don’t require hours in the kitchen. With its golden chicken, vibrant sauce, and creamy rice, it’s a complete meal that feels special enough for company but easy enough for busy nights.
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Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice: A Restaurant-Worthy Meal in 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 30 mins
Description
Elevate your dinner with this delicious Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice. Tender chicken pieces are sautéed in a savory garlic butter sauce and served over creamy, flavorful Parmesan rice for a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup white wine
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 lemon, juiced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Garlic Parmesan Rice Ingredients:
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the rice and stir to coat with the garlic butter. Cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.
Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.
Prepare the Chicken Scampi: While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Pour in the white wine and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the red pepper flakes and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat through.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Serve the chicken scampi over the garlic Parmesan rice, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Notes
This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The rich garlic butter sauce and creamy Parmesan rice make it a comforting and delicious dish your family will love.
