There are weeknight dinners, and then there are dishes that transform a regular evening into something memorable. Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is one of those special meals. It combines tender, flavorful chicken cooked in a garlicky lemon-butter sauce with creamy Parmesan-infused rice. I first whipped up this dish on a whim, craving the flavors of shrimp scampi but wanting to use what I had on hand. The result? A new favorite that feels both indulgent and approachable.
This recipe is a wonderful mix of comfort food and elegance. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining friends, or treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One Skillet + One Pot: Minimal cleanup for maximum flavor.
- Bold, Balanced Flavors: Zesty lemon, savory garlic, and nutty Parmesan make for a flavor-packed meal.
- Filling and Comforting: Creamy rice and juicy chicken are a match made in heaven.
- Quick and Simple: Ready in about 40 minutes from start to finish.
- Customizable: Add vegetables or switch up the herbs for your own twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Scampi:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup uncooked rice (long grain or jasmine)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Substitutions: You can use rotisserie chicken in place of fresh for a shortcut. Vegetable broth works well for a lighter or vegetarian twist on the rice.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Garlic Parmesan Rice
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the uncooked rice, stir once, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
Tip: Avoid lifting the lid while the rice is cooking to ensure even absorption.
Once done, remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cover again and let sit while you prepare the chicken.
2. Season the Chicken
While the rice cooks, season the thinly sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavor and ensures every bite is delicious.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Once melted and foamy, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
Add the chicken strips to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning once, until golden on the outside and cooked through.
Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed to get a nice sear on the chicken.
4. Add Broth and Lemon Juice
Once the chicken is fully cooked, pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir to combine and let simmer for 2-3 minutes. This creates a light, flavorful sauce that coats the chicken.
5. Finish with Fresh Herbs
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. The herbs add brightness and freshness to balance the rich, savory flavors.
6. Assemble and Serve
To serve, spoon a generous portion of garlic Parmesan rice onto each plate or shallow bowl. Top with the lemony garlic chicken and drizzle any extra sauce from the skillet over the top.
Optional Garnish: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a light dusting of lemon zest really makes the dish pop.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions: Pair with steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon also complements the flavors.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth to keep everything moist and flavorful.
Freezing: While the chicken freezes well, the rice may change texture slightly. For best results, freeze the components separately and reheat together.
Helpful Cooking Notes
- Butter Choice: Use unsalted butter to control the salt levels in the dish.
- Rice Type: Long-grain white rice, jasmine, or even basmati work well. Avoid quick-cooking or instant rice.
- Garlic Tip: Freshly minced garlic gives the most flavor, but you can use garlic paste in a pinch.
- Add Veggies: Stir in baby spinach, peas, or mushrooms for a veggie boost.
- Make It Creamy: Add a splash of cream or a spoonful of cream cheese to the rice for an extra luscious texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and add great flavor. Just make sure they're boneless and sliced similarly for even cooking.
2. Is this dish spicy?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat, but they’re totally optional. Omit or reduce the amount if you prefer a milder flavor.
3. What can I use instead of fresh parsley?
Dried parsley works in a pinch. Use about 1 tablespoon dried, or try fresh basil or thyme for a flavor variation.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook both the rice and the chicken a day in advance. Store separately and reheat gently before serving.
5. How do I prevent dry chicken?
Avoid overcooking. Slice the chicken evenly and cook just until it reaches 165°F internally. Simmering it briefly in the broth and lemon juice also helps keep it juicy.
6. Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your skillet is large enough or cook the chicken in batches. Great for feeding a crowd.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is the kind of meal that combines the best of both comfort and flair. The zesty lemon and garlic chicken alongside the creamy, cheesy rice creates a restaurant-worthy dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight. It’s the perfect way to elevate your dinner routine without spending hours in the kitchen.
Give it a try and see how quickly it becomes a new favorite in your home. Have you made it already or added your own twist? I’d love to hear how you made it your own—share your version in the comments!
