This tasty chicken scampi is a one-pan wonder, featuring juicy chicken and a garlic sauce that makes your mouth water. It’s paired with creamy, cheesy parmesan rice that takes it up a notch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish due to their quick cooking time. If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken thighs work well too! They’re juicier and can add more flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that strong flavor. If you have garlic powder on hand, you can use 1 teaspoon as a substitute, though fresh really makes a difference in taste!
Chicken Broth and Wine: Chicken broth adds depth to the sauce and rice. If you’re short on broth, water will work in a pinch. White wine brings acidity; if you prefer to skip it, just add a bit more broth and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Parmesan Cheese: For a creamy touch, grated Parmesan is perfect. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can offer a cheesy flavor, or you can leave it out entirely without compromising too much on taste.
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Cooked Rice?
Cooking rice perfectly can sometimes be tricky, but it’s all about the water-to-rice ratio and cooking time. Here’s a quick guide:
- Use a medium saucepan, and always rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch.
- Bring your water or broth to a boil before adding the rice.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 15-18 minutes—do not lift the lid! This traps steam and makes the rice fluffy.
- Once cooked, let it sit covered off the heat for 5 minutes. This helps it finish cooking through steam.
Fluff it with a fork before serving, which enhances texture and keeps it from being sticky!
Easy Chicken Scampi With Garlic Parmesan Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken Scampi:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or a mix of oregano and basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth (for cooking rice)
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken, and while it’s cooking, the rice will come together nicely. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Add 1 cup of rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove it from heat and keep it covered so it stays warm.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the rice is cooking, cut the chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces. Season them generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook until they’re golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Scampi Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but watch carefully to ensure it doesn’t burn. Next, add the chicken broth and the white wine if you’re using it. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce the liquid a little.
4. Combine Everything:
Stir in the butter, fresh lemon juice, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Allow the sauce to simmer for a couple of minutes until it’s slightly thickened. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it well in the sauce. Keep the heat low to keep it warm while you finish up the rice.
5. Add Parmesan to the Rice:
Fluff the rice with a fork and then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s all melted and creamy.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Plate the chicken scampi over the garlic Parmesan rice. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and brightness. If you want, you can include a lemon wedge on the side for a bit of extra zest.
Enjoy this flavorful, easy one-pan dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Scampi With Garlic Parmesan Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. The best way is to place it in the fridge overnight or submerge it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for a quicker option. Pat it dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture.
Can I Prepare the Sauce and Chicken Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat them gently in a skillet and cook the rice fresh for the best texture.
What If I Don’t Have White Wine?
No problem! If you prefer not to use wine, simply omit it. You can increase the chicken broth to 3/4 cup for added flavor. A splash of lemon juice can also add a nice acidic touch if you want to mimic the brightness that wine would bring.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place any uneaten chicken scampi and garlic parmesan rice in airtight containers. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
