Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delicious and comforting dish that perfectly blends tender chicken and rich, creamy rice into a delectable meal. With its fragrant garlic and zesty lemon flavors, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Let’s dive into how you can create this restaurant-quality dish right at home!
Ingredients
- 1 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes (optional) (For heat)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/8 teaspoon Black pepper
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 each Lemon, juice and zest (Juice of 1 lemon and zest of 1/2 lemon)
- 1 1/2 cups Long-grain white rice
- 3 cups Chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Heavy cream
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Chopped fresh parsley (For garnish)
- Extra Lemon wedges (For serving)
Directions
- In a large deep skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until melted and shimmering.
- Season chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Add chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, stirring occasionally. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside, keeping warm.
- Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn!).
- Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, scraping up any brown bits from the pan for extra flavor.
- Add uncooked rice straight into the skillet, stirring to coat the grains in the garlicky, lemony mixture. Toast rice for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring once to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is creamy and well combined.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss gently to ensure even distribution.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and extra lemon wedges for squeezing.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Nutrition Info: Approximately 600 calories per serving
How to Serve Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
To serve Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice, dish a generous helping onto each plate. Top with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor, and include lemon wedges on the side for an additional zesty kick. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and a glass of white wine, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, asparagus, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
- Substitute Protein: Swap out chicken for shrimp or scallops to create a seafood version of this dish.
- Spice it Up: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for a spicier kick.
FAQs
1. Can I make Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components in advance and reheat them together before serving.
2. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar for a unique flavor twist.