This Easy Chicken Scampi pairs juicy chicken with a buttery garlic sauce and perfectly cooked rice. The added touch of parmesan makes it creamy and delightful!
I love how quick this dish comes together—just sauté the chicken, whip up the sauce, and let the rice soak in the flavors. You’ll want seconds, trust me! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you want a quicker prep, consider using pre-cooked grilled chicken strips or rotisserie chicken. Both options save time and still taste delicious!
Garlic: Fresh garlic really enhances the flavor of the dish. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder as a substitute, but the flavor will be milder. I personally love to use extra garlic for an even bolder flavor.
White Wine: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc adds depth to the sauce. If you don’t want to use wine, chicken broth works well too, keeping the dish lighter. Some even use lemon juice mixed with water for a zesty option!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is the best choice for a rich and creamy texture. In a pinch, you can use pre-grated cheese, but it might not melt as well. You can also use Pecorino Romano for a bolder taste!
How Do I Get My Chicken Just Right?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but here are some tips to help you out:
- Slice the chicken into even pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t crowd the skillet! Cook the chicken in batches if needed, to get that nice golden color.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps it juicy!
Following these simple tips will help you achieve tender and flavorful chicken every single time. Happy cooking!
Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Scampi:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 to 1.5 lbs), sliced into thin cutlets or strips
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth (or water with bouillon), for cooking rice
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder (for rice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 25-30 minutes of cooking time. So, you’ll be enjoying your delicious chicken scampi dinner in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Once boiling, add the rice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed. Once done, remove it from the heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep it covered and set aside to keep warm.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the rice is cooking, season the chicken slices lightly on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate.
3. Make the Scampi Sauce:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, gently scraping the bottom of the pan to release any tasty browned bits. Then, add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it has slightly reduced.
4. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce, turning to coat each piece thoroughly. Let it cook for another minute just to heat through. Serve the chicken scampi over a generous bed of garlic Parmesan rice. For a fresh touch, garnish with some chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if you like.
Enjoy your tangy, garlicky, and cheesy chicken scampi meal that’s simple yet full of flavor!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or submerge it in cold water in a sealed bag for a quicker method. Pat it dry before seasoning to ensure even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is a perfect substitute. You can also use a mix of lemon juice and water for a tangy flavor reminiscent of wine without the alcohol. Just use about 1/2 cup of the mixture in place of the wine.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, reheat the chicken scampi on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or a bit of butter to keep it moist. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Can I Make the Rice in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic Parmesan rice ahead of time. Just cook it as instructed and allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it in a saucepan with a bit of broth or water to keep it moist.
