Elevate your weeknight dinners with this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice—a dish that pairs golden, tender chicken with a zesty garlic butter sauce, served over rich, creamy Parmesan-infused rice. This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort and is perfect for cozy family meals or entertaining guests.

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The combination of lemony scampi sauce and indulgent Garlic Parmesan Rice makes every bite a flavorful experience that’s both comforting and bright.

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Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter, divided
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 ½ cups chicken broth, divided
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup heavy cream
1 cup long-grain rice
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Prep and Season the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized strips.
Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken in batches until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Scampi Sauce

Lower the heat and melt the remaining butter in the skillet.
Sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add lemon juice and ½ cup chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan.
Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly reduced.

4. Cook the Garlic Parmesan Rice

In a separate saucepan, combine rice with the remaining 1 cup chicken broth.
Cover and simmer on low until rice is tender.
Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until creamy. Season to taste.

5. Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet and coat with the scampi sauce.
Heat on low for 2 minutes.
Serve chicken over the creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice.
Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips

Slice chicken evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and creamy texture.
When reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s richness.
For extra zest, add lemon zest to the rice or garnish before serving.

Why This Recipe Works

One-pan convenience: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
Creamy yet bright: The Parmesan rice balances the tangy lemon scampi sauce perfectly.
Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Impressively simple: Feels gourmet but is easy enough for weeknight cooking.

Substitutions & Variations

Chicken thighs: Juicier and richer than breasts.
Brown rice: For a nutty texture and healthier twist (increase cooking time).
Add veggies: Spinach, asparagus, or peas make it more colorful and nutritious.
Spicy kick: Increase crushed red pepper flakes for more heat.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Storage: Keep chicken and rice in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or cream.
Freezing: Not recommended for best texture, as rice may become grainy.

Serving Ideas

Sautéed asparagus with lemon zest
Garlic bread or soft dinner rolls
Caesar or Caprese salad
Roasted broccolini or grilled zucchini
Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: 510
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 620mg
Fat: 28g (Saturated: 14g, Unsaturated: 11g)
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 115mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use chicken tenders instead of breasts?
A: Yes! They cook faster and are perfect for bite-sized portions.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you ensure your broth is gluten-free.

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Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Definitely! Spinach, asparagus, or peas pair beautifully with this dish.

This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is creamy, zesty, and utterly comforting. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, it combines golden chicken, luscious scampi sauce, and indulgent Parmesan rice for a meal that’s both cozy and gourmet.

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