Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

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

1. In a large deep skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until melted and shimmering.
2. Season chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
3. 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.
4. Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn!).
5. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, scraping up any brown bits from the pan for extra flavor.
6. 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.
7. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring once to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
8. 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.
9. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is creamy and well combined.
10. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss gently to ensure even distribution.
11. 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.