There is something utterly irresistible about a dish that marries tender, golden chicken with a luscious, buttery sauce, all served over creamy, flavorful rice. This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe captures that perfect harmony beautifully. Imagine juicy chicken bites cooked in a garlicky, lemony white wine sauce, paired with fragrant jasmine rice infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese. It is a delightful meal that feels both comforting and elegant, perfect for weeknights when you want something special without too much fuss, or for impressing friends and family at your next dinner. Every bite is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a truly memorable dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll find that this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe uses straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each one plays an essential role, from the fragrant garlic and tangy lemon juice to the creamy Parmesan that adds a luxurious finish to the rice.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 pound): Bite-sized pieces ensure quick, even cooking and tender results.
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons + 1 tablespoon for rice): Adds richness and helps develop a golden crust on the chicken.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Provides the signature aromatic base you’ll adore.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Gives a subtle hint of heat that awakens the palate.
- White wine (1/2 cup): Adds brightness and depth, balancing the richness of the butter.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brings a fresh zing that cuts through the creaminess.
- Chicken broth (1 cup for sauce + 2 cups for rice): Boosts savory flavor without overpowering.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Melts into a silky sauce that coats every morsel of chicken.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note.
- Jasmine rice (1 cup): Takes on the garlic Parmesan flavors beautifully and remains fluffy.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Melts into the rice for a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Garlic powder (1 tablespoon): Boosts the garlic flavor in the rice without overpowering.
How to Make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice
Start by giving your jasmine rice a good rinse under cold water until it runs clear — this helps eliminate excess starch for perfectly fluffy grains. Then, bring 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the rinsed rice, cover it tightly, and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook gently for 15 to 20 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice becomes tender. This slow simmer infuses the rice with savory depth right from the start.
Step 2: Finish the Rice with Parmesan and Garlic
When the rice is just about done, fluff it carefully with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and a tablespoon of olive oil. This combination gives the rice a rich, creamy body balanced by savory garlic notes that elevate the entire dish.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
While your rice is gently cooking, season bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken in a single layer and let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a golden crust. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and beautifully browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Step 4: Build the Scampi Sauce
In the same skillet, toss in minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté gently for about a minute, until that wonderful garlic aroma fills your kitchen — be watchful to prevent burning, as garlic can quickly turn bitter. Next, pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned goodness from the bottom of the pan; this adds incredible flavor and a touch of acidity. Let the wine simmer and reduce for 1-2 minutes to concentrate those complex tastes.
Step 5: Add Lemon and Broth
Add the lemon juice and 1 cup of chicken broth to the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for several minutes, about 3 to 4, so the flavors meld beautifully and the sauce slightly thickens. This step is key to balancing the richness you’ve built so far with a fresh, zesty brightness.
Step 6: Finish the Chicken Scampi
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir in the unsalted butter until it melts into a glossy, flavorful sauce. Give it 1-2 minutes to warm through, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This final touch seals in moisture and adds a velvety texture that makes every bite heavenly.
Step 7: Plate and Garnish
Spoon a generous helping of the garlic Parmesan rice onto your plate, then top it with your luscious chicken scampi. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish for a beautiful, herbaceous finish that brightens every bite.
How to Serve Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Garnishes
The fresh parsley is more than just a pretty garnish. It adds a light herb flavor that refreshes the palate and balances the richness of the butter and cheese. For extra flair, consider a thin slice of lemon on the side to brighten the dish just before eating.
Side Dishes
If you’re looking to build out the meal, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully to cut through the richness. Steamed or roasted vegetables such as asparagus, green beans, or broccoli add wonderful texture and a nutritious boost without competing with the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe in shallow bowls and drizzle extra scampi sauce around the edges for an elegant touch. Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan shavings and a few sprigs of parsley for Instagram-worthy presentation that’s as inviting as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Store the chicken and rice together to allow the flavors to meld even more overnight, but do reheat gently to maintain the chicken’s tenderness.
Freezing
If you want to save portions for later, this dish freezes nicely. Transfer cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the texture of rice might change slightly upon thawing, but the flavor will stay fantastic.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out. Stir frequently until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave in short increments, stirring in between to distribute heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice?
Absolutely! While jasmine rice gives a wonderful fragrance and softness, basmati or long-grain white rice can also work well. Just adjust the cooking time according to the rice variety’s instructions.
What can I substitute for white wine?
If you prefer to avoid alcohol, try using additional chicken broth with a splash of white wine vinegar or lemon juice for acidity. It won’t be exactly the same but will still create a flavorful sauce.
Is red pepper flakes necessary?
Not at all. The red pepper flakes add a subtle heat that complements the garlic and citrus, but you can leave them out if you want a milder dish.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully here. They stay juicy and have a richer flavor, though cooking time may vary slightly.
How do I make this meal gluten-free?
This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe is naturally gluten-free, just be sure to check that your chicken broth and other packaged ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite ways to enjoy a beautifully balanced dinner that feels luxurious without fuss. It’s approachable yet impressive, hearty yet fresh, and simply bursting with flavor in every bite. I can’t wait for you to make it and fall in love with the magic of garlic, lemon, butter, and that cheesy, garlicky rice. Trust me, it will be a new staple in your cooking rotation!
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Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe features tender, golden-brown chicken bites simmered in a flavorful garlic, white wine, and lemon sauce, served atop a creamy Parmesan-infused jasmine rice. Perfect for a comforting and elegant meal ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
Chicken Scampi
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1/2 cup white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Garlic Parmesan Rice
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for about 15-20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Finish the Rice: Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Set aside and keep warm.
- Season the Chicken: While the rice cooks, season the chicken pieces evenly with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care to not burn the garlic.
- Deglaze with White Wine: Pour in the white wine, scraping up browned bits from the skillet’s bottom. Let simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Lemon Juice and Broth: Stir in lemon juice and 1 cup chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return cooked chicken to the skillet and stir in butter until melted and chicken is heated through, about 1-2 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Spoon garlic Parmesan rice onto plates, top with the chicken scampi, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels, adjusting seasoning at the end.
- White wine can be substituted with additional chicken broth if desired.
- For a spicier dish, increase red pepper flakes according to taste.
- Make sure to rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch for fluffier grains.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
