Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests. The combination of juicy chicken, garlic-infused buttery rice, and a hint of lemon creates a rich experience that everyone will love. Plus, this one-pan meal means less cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation – This dish comes together in about 40 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy evenings.
- Rich Flavor – The garlic, white wine, and Parmesan cheese create a creamy and savory profile that elevates the humble chicken and rice.
- One-Pan Cooking – Enjoy the ease of cooking everything in one skillet, which simplifies cleanup and maximizes flavor infusion.
- Versatile Dish – Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a holiday feast, this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice suits any occasion.
- Crowd-Pleaser – With its comforting flavors and appealing presentation, this dish is sure to impress friends and family alike.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delicious Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, you’ll need some essential tools that help streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet – Provides ample space to sauté the chicken evenly while allowing the rice to cook perfectly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for consistent flavor every time.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – Ideal for stirring without scratching your skillet, promoting even cooking throughout.
- Knife and cutting board – Essential for chopping ingredients quickly and safely.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Scampi:
* 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into 2-inch strips
* Salt, to taste
* 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
* ½ teaspoon garlic powder
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
* 1 stick butter
* 2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 6 cloves)
* ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
* 1 ½ teaspoons salt, divided
* ½ cup dry white wine
* 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
* 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice (jasmine or long-grain)
* 3 cups chicken broth
* ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Season the chicken strips with salt, lemon pepper seasoning, and garlic powder. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and cover to keep warm.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and ½ teaspoon salt. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the white wine and cook for 5 minutes to allow it to reduce by half. Add fresh lemon juice; stir well and reserve 2 tablespoons of sauce for later.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Add uncooked rice, chicken broth, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt to the skillet. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring once or twice until rice is tender.
Step 4: Finish & Serve
Stir grated Parmesan cheese into the rice until well combined. Return cooked chicken to the skillet on top of the rice. Drizzle with reserved garlic butter sauce. Cover again; let sit for 5 minutes to meld flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley and crispy toasted breadcrumbs if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Serving Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice can elevate your dining experience. The rich flavors of the dish pair wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its taste and presentation.
Pairing with Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed, it adds a fresh crunch and balances the richness of the chicken.
- Roasted Asparagus – Drizzled with olive oil and seasoned, it provides a delicious contrast to the creamy rice.
Adding a Salad
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing complements the savory notes of the scampi.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing side option that brightens up the meal.
Complementing with Bread
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce from the chicken scampi.
- Focaccia – This soft, herb-infused bread pairs well, providing a delightful texture alongside the dish.
How to Perfect Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
To ensure your Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is exceptional every time, follow these helpful tips for a flawless dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic, herbs, and quality chicken will enhance flavor significantly.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Cook just until golden and no longer pink inside for juicy results.
- Season Correctly – Taste as you go to balance flavors; add more salt or lemon juice if needed.
- Let It Rest – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld beautifully.
- Experiment with Wines – Different white wines can change the flavor profile; choose one you enjoy drinking.
- Garnish Generously – A sprinkle of fresh parsley or crispy breadcrumbs adds both color and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Pairing side dishes with Chicken Scampi can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options that complement this flavorful dish perfectly.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting addition.
- Mixed Green Salad – A light salad dressed in vinaigrette adds freshness to balance out the richness of the main course.
- Grilled Zucchini – Seasoned and grilled zucchini offers a healthy, flavorful side that pairs well.
- Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts bring earthy flavors that contrast nicely with the chicken scampi.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn provides a delightful crunch and sweetness to each bite.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can help cut through the richness of the dish while adding crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. To avoid this, cook until golden brown and no longer pink in the center, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Not Seasoning Properly: Skipping seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season both the chicken and rice adequately for a well-rounded taste.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold ingredients can lower the cooking temperature, affecting texture. Use room temperature chicken and broth for even cooking.
- Skipping the Resting Time: Not allowing the dish to rest can prevent flavors from melding. Let it sit for 5 minutes after cooking before serving.
- Ignoring Leftover Storage: Improper storage can affect freshness. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
- Freezing is not recommended as rice may become mushy upon thawing.
- If necessary, freeze chicken separately from rice in airtight containers.
Reheating Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
You can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.
How can I customize my Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
What wine should I use for this recipe?
A dry white wine works best; options include Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Can I make Chicken Scampi gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta instead of rice if you prefer, or ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is not only delicious but also versatile and comforting. It’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or vegetables for a personal touch!
Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, a delicious one-pan meal that transforms humble ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience. This dish features succulent chicken strips sautéed to golden perfection, enveloped in a creamy garlic butter sauce enriched with white wine and Parmesan cheese. Paired with aromatic garlic-infused rice, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s sure to impress your family and guests.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breasts (cut into strips)
- 1 stick butter
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 1½ cups uncooked white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season chicken strips with salt, lemon pepper seasoning, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; sauté chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté until fragrant. Pour in white wine and simmer for about 5 minutes until reduced by half.
- Stir in uncooked rice, chicken broth, and remaining salt; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover, simmering for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Mix in Parmesan cheese, return chicken to the pan, drizzle with reserved sauce, cover for an additional 5 minutes to meld flavors. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
