Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that makes for an easy yet elegant dinner. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this dish features tender pan-seared chicken breasts paired with a zesty lemon-butter scampi sauce and creamy parmesan-infused rice. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With a total time of just 40 minutes, you can serve an impressive meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic, lemon, and butter creates a rich and savory sauce that enhances the chicken and rice beautifully.
• Versatile: This dish pairs well with various side salads or steamed vegetables, making it adaptable for any dining occasion.
• Easy clean-up: Made in one skillet and one saucepan, this meal minimizes dirty dishes while maximizing flavor.
• Family-friendly: The mild flavors of chicken and rice appeal to both kids and adults, making it a perfect family dinner option.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Medium saucepan
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A large skillet is ideal for searing the chicken and creating the delicious scampi sauce in one pan.
• Medium saucepan: This is perfect for cooking the rice evenly while absorbing all the flavors from the broth.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Scampi:

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

How to Make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Season the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil.
2. Add seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 5–6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Scampi Sauce

1. In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add butter along with minced garlic.
2. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice; scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to deglaze.
4. Add lemon zest, then simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly reduced.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

1. Return the seared chicken to the skillet.
2. Spoon sauce over each piece of chicken and allow it to simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Cook Garlic Parmesan Rice

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.
3. Stir in white rice; toast for about 1 minute while stirring constantly.
4. Add chicken broth; bring to a boil before reducing heat to low.
5. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender.

Step 6: Finish Rice Preparation

1. Once cooked, remove from heat; stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley until well combined.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

1. Plate servings by placing a generous scoop of garlic parmesan rice on each plate.
2. Top with sliced chicken breast, spooning extra sauce over everything.
3. Garnish with additional parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice!

How to Serve Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Serving Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is all about elevating the flavors and presentation. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Plate Presentation

• Use a large white plate to create a beautiful contrast against the vibrant colors of the dish.
• Arrange the rice in a mound, placing the chicken on top, and drizzle with scampi sauce for an appealing look.

Fresh Herbs Garnish

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the chicken and rice for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Consider adding lemon zest as a bright finishing touch that complements the dish’s lemony notes.

Pair with Vegetables

• Serve alongside sautéed or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans for added color and nutrition.
• A simple side salad can also balance the richness of the dish.

Accompanying Bread

• Offer crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any leftover scampi sauce, enhancing the dining experience.
• A light herb-infused butter spread can elevate your bread choice even more.

How to Perfect Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Perfecting this Chicken Scampi recipe takes some attention to detail. Follow these tips for an exceptional dish every time.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken breasts and high-quality parmesan cheese make a big difference in taste.
• Mind Your Cooking Time: Searing chicken too long can dry it out. Aim for golden-brown on each side while ensuring it’s cooked through.
• Don’t Skip Deglazing: Scraping up the brown bits from the skillet adds depth and flavor to your sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! You may want to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.
• Use Short-Grain Rice: Opting for short-grain rice will yield creamier results when cooked with broth and cheese.
• Let It Rest: Allowing your chicken to rest after cooking helps lock in moisture before slicing.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Pairing sides with Chicken Scampi creates a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli
   Toss broccoli florets in olive oil and garlic, roast until tender, and serve for a flavorful crunch.
2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing, croutons, and parmesan makes a classic accompaniment.
3. Grilled Zucchini
   Lightly grilled zucchini drizzled with olive oil brings freshness and complements the rich scampi flavors.
4. Herbed Couscous
   Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs provides a light side that pairs well with savory dishes.
5. Lemon-Butter Asparagus
   Tender asparagus sautéed in lemon butter adds brightness and enhances the overall meal experience.
6. Caprese Salad Skewers
   Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create an elegant finger food option.
7. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
   A refreshing blend of chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, and feta brings protein-packed flavor without heaviness.
8. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized offer sweetness that balances out the savory elements of your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the overall flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dryness. Aim for a golden brown crust while ensuring the inside remains juicy.
• Using too much garlic: While garlic adds flavor, using an excessive amount can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended cloves for balance.
• Not seasoning adequately: A lack of seasoning can make your dish bland. Be sure to season each component properly, from the chicken to the rice.
• Skipping the deglazing step: Neglecting to deglaze the skillet will result in lost flavor. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom after cooking the chicken to enhance your sauce.
• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients can affect cooking times. Allow your chicken broth and other components to reach room temperature before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice:

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or even shrimp for different flavors while maintaining a delicious scampi style.

What is the best type of rice for this recipe?

Long-grain white rice works best, but you could also use basmati or jasmine rice if you prefer.

How spicy is Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?

The spiciness depends on whether you include red pepper flakes. You can adjust this based on your preference for heat.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything ahead of time but store components separately until you’re ready to serve for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe is not only simple to create but also brings a delightful array of flavors that will impress any dinner guest. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and taste. Enjoy making this versatile dish again and again!

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Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in a delightful culinary experience with this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice. This elegant dish brings together perfectly seared chicken breasts enveloped in a zesty lemon-butter scampi sauce, paired with creamy garlic parmesan rice. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is designed to impress without demanding hours in the kitchen. With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can savor rich flavors that appeal to both adults and kids alike. Enjoy the ease of preparation and minimal cleanup while serving a meal that is sure to become a family favorite!

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Ingredients

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• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 7 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for rice)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced (for rice)
• 1 cup white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth (for rice)
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for rice)

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Instructions

1. Season chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
2. Sear chicken in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown, about 5–6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add chicken broth and lemon juice; deglaze the skillet.
4. Simmer sauce for 3–4 minutes before returning chicken to the skillet to coat in the sauce.
5. For garlic parmesan rice, melt butter in a saucepan, sauté garlic, toast rice, then add broth and simmer until tender.
6. Stir in parmesan cheese and parsley into the rice before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (380g)
• Calories: 590
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 59g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 95mg