This Easy Chicken Scampi is a quick and tasty meal! Juicy chicken is cooked in a buttery garlic sauce and served over delicious garlic parmesan rice. Perfect for any night of the week!
It’s hard to resist the yummy smell of garlic wafting through the kitchen. Trust me, your family will want extra helpings. I happily spoon on extra rice every time! 😋
What I love most is how simple it is to whip up this dish. If you’re busy, this recipe has got your back—just cook, stir, and enjoy a satisfying dinner in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish. If you prefer, you could use chicken thighs for a juicier texture. Just adjust the cooking time a bit as thighs may need a few more minutes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to flavor. If you’re out, you could use garlic powder—about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove. Remember, fresh garlic has a more vibrant taste!
White Wine: It adds depth to the sauce, but if you’re not comfortable cooking with alcohol, swap it with more chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives a wonderful creaminess to the rice. If you’re in a pinch, pre-grated will work, but fresh is always best if you can manage it.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but here’s how to ensure it’s perfectly cooked and not dry:
- Start with a hot skillet. This gives the chicken a nice sear and locking in flavor.
- Cook on medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. A meat thermometer can help; aim for 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest. After cooking, let the chicken sit for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy!
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to a delicious Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice! Enjoy making this flavorful recipe! 😊
Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Scampi:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it smells delicious (about 1 minute). Next, add the rice and stir it around to coat in the garlic butter. Now, pour in chicken broth, bring all of it to a boil, then reduce the 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, take it off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste, and keep it covered until you’re ready to serve.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the rice is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until it’s a lovely golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F or 75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Scampi Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and throw in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Next, pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if you’re using it), scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the lemon juice and butter, allowing the butter to melt and the sauce to simmer for about 2-3 minutes. If you like a little heat, add the red pepper flakes now!
4. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it cook for another minute or two to warm through. Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over everything for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the chicken over the garlic Parmesan rice and enjoy this delightful meal!
This flavorful, comforting recipe combines buttery garlic chicken with rich, cheesy rice for a delightful dinner that’s quick and easy to prepare. Enjoy your delicious meal! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can substitute them with chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may require a little longer to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Dry White Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can simply use additional chicken broth, or a splash of extra lemon juice for a bit of acidity. Just keep in mind that wine adds depth to the flavor, so ensure you season accordingly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep the rice moist.
Can I Make the Garlic Parmesan Rice in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice a day in advance. Just cool it down quickly after cooking, then store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
