This Easy Chicken Scampi is full of flavor and comes together quickly. Juicy chicken is cooked with garlic and tossed in a light sauce, served over delicious garlic Parmesan rice!
You’ll love how the rice soaks up the tasty sauce. It’s like a hug in a bowl! I often make this on busy weeknights, and everyone always asks for seconds. It’s just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey breast can also be a great alternative. I often use chicken thighs for added flavor and moisture.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for that aromatic flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic paste or powdered garlic can be used in a pinch, but fresh is always better!
White Wine: A dry white wine adds depth to the sauce. If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth works perfectly as a substitute, giving you a nice flavor without the alcohol.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best taste and texture to the rice. If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano or even a vegan cheese if you want a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get the Rice Just Right?
The rice is super important for this dish, so following these steps will help you achieve the best texture:
- Make sure to rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch; this prevents it from being gummy.
- Cook the rice in chicken broth instead of water for a much richer flavor.
- Mind the cook time! Check your rice around the 15-minute mark. It should be tender but not mushy.
- After cooking, let it sit covered for a few minutes to absorb any remaining liquid.
These tips will ensure your rice complements the delicious chicken scampi perfectly!
Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Scampi:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup long grain white rice (e.g., basmati or jasmine)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes preparing and cooking the rice and chicken, and the rest is simple assembly. A quick, satisfying meal that’s great for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté it until fragrant (about 1 minute), being careful not to let it brown. Stir in the rice, coating it well in the garlic butter for about 1-2 minutes. Then, pour in the chicken broth and add a pinch of salt. Bring this to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Once done, remove from heat, add the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with a little more salt and pepper if needed. Keep it covered and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken Scampi:
While the rice is cooking, season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until it’s golden and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, which should take about 30 seconds. Then, pour in the white wine or chicken broth along with the lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let this simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Finally, stir in the butter and the red pepper flakes (if using) until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the chicken back to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook everything together for another 1-2 minutes to heat through.
3. Serve:
Spoon the creamy garlic Parmesan rice onto plates, then top with the delicious chicken scampi. Don’t forget to garnish with the chopped fresh parsley! Serve right away and enjoy the wonderful flavors of this comforting dish.
This recipe makes about 4 servings, perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking. The best way to thaw chicken is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or submerging it in cold water for a faster option. Pat it dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure better browning.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
If you want to make this dish dairy-free, substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. For the Parmesan cheese, consider using a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast, which can add a cheesy flavor and is perfect for a dairy-free option!
Can I Prepare the Rice in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic Parmesan rice ahead of time. Just refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to help loosen it up. Stir in more Parmesan if desired!
What Can I Serve with Chicken Scampi?
This chicken scampi pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for some freshness. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
