Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender, golden-seared chicken with a creamy, garlicky sauce. Paired with buttery, Parmesan-infused rice, this recipe makes for a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests without too much effort.

What Is Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?

Chicken Scampi is a twist on the classic shrimp scampi, swapping seafood for juicy chicken breasts. It features a creamy sauce flavored with garlic and Parmesan, making it rich and indulgent. When served with Garlic Parmesan Rice, this dish transforms into a complete meal that’s both comforting and elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Straightforward steps and simple ingredients make it approachable for any home cook.
• Flavor-Packed: Loaded with garlic, Parmesan, and a creamy sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Versatile: Suitable for both casual weeknights and special occasions.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Scampi

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp butter, divided
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan

For the Garlic Parmesan Rice

• 1½ cups (285 g) long-grain rice
• 3 cups (720 ml) chicken broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan

Optional Garnish

• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

1. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat each chicken breast thoroughly in the mixture.
2. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Sear chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Scampi Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan, and let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.

Preparing the Garlic Parmesan Rice

1. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until rice is tender.
2. Stir in minced garlic and Parmesan for added flavor.

Assembling the Dish

1. Serve the seared chicken over a bed of Garlic Parmesan Rice.
2. Spoon the creamy scampi sauce over the chicken.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side of crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.
• Add a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
• A glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, makes a great pairing.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
• Prepare fresh rice when ready to serve, as it doesn’t freeze well.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the chicken.
• Low-Carb: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or tofu.
• Extra Veggies: Add sautéed spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to the sauce for more nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce may be slightly thinner. You can thicken it with a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water if needed.

What can I use instead of Parmesan?
Grated Pecorino Romano or Asiago are great alternatives.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the chicken and sauce in advance, then store them separately. Reheat and assemble just before serving.

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a deliciously comforting recipe that combines tender chicken, a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, and flavorful rice. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize and prepare. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!

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