Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The tender chicken strips are cooked in a buttery garlic sauce and paired with creamy garlic Parmesan rice, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken:
- Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Add the chicken strips to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Scampi Sauce
- Sauté the Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan:
- Pour in the 1/2 cup of chicken broth and 1/4 cup of white wine (if using). Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Add Lemon Juice and Butter:
- Stir in the juice of 1 lemon and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is slightly reduced.
- Combine with Chicken:
- Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice
- Cook the Garlic:
- In a medium saucepan, sauté the minced garlic in a small amount of olive oil over medium heat until fragrant.
- Add Rice and Broth:
- Add the 1 cup of long-grain white rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the garlic and oil. Pour in the 2 cups of chicken broth.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Add Parmesan and Seasoning:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Fluff the rice with a fork.
Step 4: Serve
- Plate the Dish:
- Serve the chicken scampi over a bed of garlic Parmesan rice. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Enjoy:
- Enjoy your Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice hot, and savor the delicious combination of flavors!
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Chicken: Ensure the chicken strips are cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute additional chicken broth.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables:
- Add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to the scampi sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Different Grains:
- Substitute the white rice with quinoa, brown rice, or couscous for a different texture and flavor.
- Herbs:
- Add fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary to the scampi sauce for extra depth of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Reheat and combine them just before serving.
4. What can I serve with this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?
Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
5. Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the texture of the rice and sauce may change when thawed.
The Creamy and Flavorful Delight of Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and creamy rice, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken, garlic, and parsley will enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Proper Seasoning: Ensure the chicken and rice are well-seasoned for the best flavor.
- Even Cooking: Cook the chicken strips evenly to ensure they are tender and juicy.
Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful sauce, tender chicken, and creamy rice, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe for your next meal and enjoy a comforting and satisfying dish. Happy cooking!
