Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe is an easy yet elegant dinner that features tender pan-seared chicken breasts paired with a garlicky lemon-butter scampi sauce and creamy parmesan-infused rice. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing main dish bursting with flavor, making it suitable for various occasions from family dinners to special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just 40 minutes.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of garlic, lemon, and parmesan creates a rich flavor that elevates simple chicken and rice to gourmet status.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion, from casual family nights to dinner parties, this dish impresses while being approachable.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, it’s a satisfying meal that keeps everyone feeling good.
• One-Pan Wonder: With minimal cleanup required, you can enjoy your meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Medium saucepan
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for searing chicken evenly while allowing ample space for sautéing garlic and creating the scampi sauce.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for cooking rice; it ensures even absorption of broth for fluffy results.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Useful for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Scampi

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Garlic Parmesan Rice

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

How to Make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Season the Chicken

1. Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and paprika on both sides for enhanced flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil.
2. Once hot, sear the chicken breasts for 5–6 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Scampi Sauce

1. In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly. Add butter followed by minced garlic.
2. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze it.
4. Add lemon zest and allow it to simmer for about 3–4 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

1. Return the seared chicken to the pan.
2. Spoon sauce over the chicken and let it simmer together for an additional 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Cook Garlic Parmesan Rice

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.
3. Stir in white rice and toast it lightly for about 1 minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth, bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
5. Cover and let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes.

Step 6: Finish Rice Preparation

1. After cooking time is complete, remove from heat.
2. Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese along with chopped parsley until well combined.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

1. Plate the chicken over a generous serving of garlic parmesan rice.
2. Spoon extra scampi sauce over both chicken and rice as desired.
3. Garnish with additional parsley or red pepper flakes if you want an extra kick!

How to Serve Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Serving Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is all about enhancing the dish’s vibrant flavors while providing a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative serving ideas to elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness.
• Lemon Slices: Add lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing that complements the scampi sauce.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad can add crunch and a creamy element to your meal.
• Mixed Greens: A simple mixed green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken.

Incorporate Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious scampi sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: Offer slices of crusty baguette as a side, perfect for mopping up every last bit.

Add a Vegetable Medley

• Roasted Asparagus: Serve roasted asparagus seasoned with olive oil and garlic for a tasty veggie side.
• Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds a nutritious touch and pairs well with the rich flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Perfecting your Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Here are some tips to achieve that restaurant-quality dish at home.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and herbs. They enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to dried versions.
• Control the Heat: When searing chicken, ensure your skillet is hot enough for a nice golden crust without overcooking it.
• Deglaze Properly: Scrape the bottom of the skillet thoroughly when adding broth. This incorporates all those flavorful bits into your sauce.
• Cook Rice Al Dente: Aim for slightly firmer rice. It will absorb more flavor from the sauce without becoming mushy.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook; feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or even add more lemon juice if you prefer extra zing.
• Let it Rest: Allow cooked chicken to rest before slicing. This helps keep it juicy and tender.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Complementing your Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is easy when you choose sides that balance its richness. Here are some excellent options.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Adds a bright green color and healthy crunch; steam lightly and season simply.
2. Zucchini Noodles: A fresh alternative to pasta; toss them lightly in olive oil and garlic for added flavor.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs create a hearty side that pairs well.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn brushed with butter adds sweetness that complements savory flavors beautifully.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of chicken scampi perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice can be straightforward, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken: This can lead to dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
• Not seasoning properly: Underseasoned dishes can taste bland. Ensure you season the chicken and the rice adequately with salt and pepper.
• Skipping the deglazing step: Failing to scrape the skillet can result in losing flavorful bits. Always deglaze with broth or juice after cooking proteins.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or broth can affect cooking times. Allow ingredients to reach room temperature before using them in your recipe.
• Ignoring rest time: Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps retain its juices and flavor. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is best consumed within 3–4 days.

Freezing Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice:

Can I use other types of meat in Chicken Scampi?

You can substitute turkey or lamb for chicken. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice dairy-free?

Replace the butter and parmesan cheese with plant-based alternatives like olive oil and nutritional yeast.

What sides pair well with Chicken Scampi?

Consider serving it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli during the cooking process for added nutrition.

How do I store leftover Chicken Scampi?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is not just a delicious meal; it’s also versatile and perfect for any occasion. You can customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it might just become a weeknight favorite!

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Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich and flavorful lemon-butter scampi sauce. Each bite is complemented by creamy, parmesan-infused rice, making it an ideal option for both casual family dinners and special occasions. This recipe is not only quick to prepare, taking just 40 minutes, but it also requires minimal cleanup thanks to its one-pan approach. With the vibrant flavors of garlic and lemon shining through, this easy yet elegant meal is sure to impress everyone at your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

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Instructions

1. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Deglaze with chicken broth and lemon juice; simmer for 3-4 minutes.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over it, and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. In a separate saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic before adding rice and broth. Cook until rice is fluffy.
6. Stir in parmesan cheese before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Searing and simmering
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 90mg