This Easy Chicken Scampi is packed with flavor, featuring tender chicken drizzled in a buttery garlic sauce. It pairs perfectly with creamy garlic parmesan rice that makes every bite enjoyable!
You can’t go wrong with this dish – it’s quick to whip up, and the aroma alone will have everyone flocking to the table! I especially love all the cheesy goodness in the rice. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can add more flavor and moisture. For a lighter option, shrimp or scallops could also be used in the scampi sauce.
White Wine: A dry white wine enhances the flavor of the sauce. If you don’t have wine or prefer not to use it, substitute with more chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for that wonderful flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder could substitute, but fresh is always better! I recommend using about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.
Parmesan Cheese: For the rice, grated Parmesan adds creaminess. If you can’t find Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the chicken just right is key to a delicious dish. Here are my tips for perfectly cooked chicken:
- Start with even-sized chicken breasts; you can pound them a little if they’re thick.
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken – this helps in browning.
- Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, but use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for safety.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this keeps it juicy.
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 unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or additional chicken broth)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (e.g., jasmine or basmati)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook, for a total of 40 minutes. It’s quick and easy to put together, making it a perfect weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until you can smell that wonderful aroma. Next, toss in the rice, stirring to coat the grains with the butter and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and add a pinch of salt. Bring everything 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 the liquid is absorbed. When done, take it off the heat and mix in grated Parmesan cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste and keep the lid on to keep it warm while you prepare the chicken.
2. Prepare the Chicken Scampi:
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken breasts, cooking for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they’re golden and cooked through. Once done, transfer them to a plate and cover to keep warm.
3. Make the Scampi Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add butter. Once it melts, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, making sure it doesn’t burn. Pour in the chicken broth and white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift any delicious browned bits. Stir in lemon juice and optional red pepper flakes, and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spoon some of the luscious sauce over the top, and warm it all together for a minute or two. Finish up by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley on top. Serve the chicken scampi hot over a generous scoop of garlic parmesan rice.
Enjoy your delightful Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice! It’s flavorful, comforting, and sure to impress your friends and family!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with more chicken broth and a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar for acidity. This will help maintain the dish’s flavor without the alcohol.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the rice seems dry.
Can I Make the Rice Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the garlic parmesan rice up to a day in advance. Just cool it completely before storing it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little chicken broth or water to fluff it up.
