This Easy Chicken Scampi is a delightful dish with tender chicken sautĂ©ed in a zesty garlic butter sauce. Served with cheesy, creamy parmesan rice, it’s a meal that warms the heart!
You can’t go wrong with garlic and cheese, right? 🍽️ I love making this on busy nights because it comes together fast and tastes like a restaurant special right at home!
The rice is the perfect side, soaking up the delicious sauce. I often make extra to enjoy as leftovers—it’s just that good! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe due to their quick cooking time. If you’re looking for alternatives, thighs work too and offer a richer flavor. Vegetarian? Try using firm tofu or portobello mushrooms for a meaty texture.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a great punch of flavor. If you’re short on fresh, use garlic powder—about 1/8 teaspoon equals one clove. I prefer fresh for that vibrant taste; it adds so much to the dish!
White Wine: This adds depth to the sauce, but if you’re avoiding alcohol, use more chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice. Some people like to use a bit of apple cider vinegar for a similar kick!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese melts beautifully into the rice. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast gives a similar cheesy flavor. I often mix in some extra cheese for extra creaminess!
How do I get the Chicken Cooked Perfectly?
Getting your chicken cooked evenly is crucial for this dish. Here are some tips:
- Start with chicken that’s around the same thickness. If some pieces are thicker, pound them slightly or slice them to ensure even cooking.
- Cook on medium-high heat to get that nice golden crust without burning it. About 5-6 minutes per side usually works well.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; aim for 165°F (74°C). It’s the best way to ensure juicy chicken!
What’s the Secret to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Rice?
Perfecting the garlic Parmesan rice is all about technique. Here’s how to do it:
- Rinse your rice thoroughly to remove excess starch for fluffier grains.
- Sautéing the garlic in butter first really enhances its flavor. Be careful not to let it brown too much!
- Let the rice rest covered after cooking; this helps it absorb steam and become fluffy.
With these tips and adjustments, you’ll create a delicious Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice that everyone will love! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Scampi:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional; substitute with more chicken broth if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (e.g. jasmine or basmati)
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, for a total of about 40 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear—this helps make it fluffy! Next, in a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add in the minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the rice to coat it with the garlic butter, then add the chicken broth or water with a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is gone. Once done, remove it from heat, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
2. Cook the Chicken Scampi:
While the rice is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it with foil to keep it warm.
3. Make the Scampi Sauce:
In the same skillet you used for the chicken, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining butter. Let it melt, then add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the chicken broth and the wine (if you’re using it), stirring to scrap up any tasty bits stuck to the pan. Add the lemon juice and red pepper flakes, then simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes until it reduces slightly.
4. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Let them cook for another 1-2 minutes so they can heat through and absorb some of that delicious flavor. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving. Plate each chicken breast over a generous bed of garlic Parmesan rice, and spoon any extra sauce over it. If you’d like, garnish with more Parmesan and parsley!
Enjoy your flavorful, comforting Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice! It’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and offer a bit more flavor and juiciness. Just cook them until they reach the same internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Wine?
Yes, you can definitely omit the wine! Simply replace it with an equal amount of chicken broth or add a splash of lemon juice for acidity. This will still enhance the flavor of the scampi sauce beautifully!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out.
Can I Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the rice ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just make sure to reheat it on the stove with a little butter or broth to fluff it up before serving. It’s a great way to save time on busy nights!
