This Easy Chicken Scampi is a treat! Juicy chicken is cooked in a buttery garlic sauce, and paired with fluffy Parmesan rice that’s bursting with flavor.
Honestly, the garlic aroma alone is enough to cheer up anyone! I like to make extra rice to enjoy as a side the next day—it’s just that good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish because they cook quickly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using turkey breasts or even firm tofu for a vegetarian version.
White Wine: Dry white wine adds depth to the sauce. If you want a non-alcoholic option, chicken broth works well as a substitute, providing the moisture without the wine flavor.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the flavors. If you don’t have lemons, bottled lemon juice will do, but use it sparingly as it can be stronger than fresh.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese adds richness to the garlic rice. If you need a dairy-free or lower-cost option, try nutritional yeast or pecorino cheese as a substitute.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken thoroughly without drying it out can be tricky. Here’s how to ensure it’s perfectly cooked every time:
- First, let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly.
- Use medium-high heat when cooking to get a golden-brown crust. Avoid moving the chicken around too much to allow it to sear properly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy!
How Can I Make the Rice Fluffy and Delicious?
Cooking rice perfectly can seem daunting, but it’s quite simple with this method:
- Rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch. This prevents it from becoming gummy.
- When sautéing garlic, keep an eye on it. You want it fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can add bitterness to the dish.
- Always use a lid while simmering rice to trap the steam, which helps it cook evenly.
- Fluff rice with a fork after it’s finished cooking to separate the grains and keep it light.
These tips should help you achieve success with your Easy Chicken Scampi and Garlic Parmesan Rice! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Scampi:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 30 minutes to cook, totaling around 45 minutes. You’ll have juicy, flavorful chicken and delicious rice on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps them get a nice sear. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper to taste. Simple and effective!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, 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. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant but not burnt—keep a close watch! Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and the fresh lemon juice. Let this mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes so it reduces slightly and those flavors really meld together.
4. Finish the Sauce:
Now, stir in the 4 tablespoons of butter and the chopped parsley (and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat). Keep stirring until the butter has melted and the sauce is nice and well combined. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over it, and allow it to cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Cook the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
While the chicken is cooking, grab a saucepan and melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant but not browned. This is where the magic begins for the rice!
6. Simmer the Rice:
Add the rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat the grains with the yummy garlic butter. Pour in the chicken broth, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it cook for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. Remove from heat.
7. Finish the Rice:
After the rice has cooked, simply stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed—so good!
8. Serve:
Now it’s time to plate up! Place the chicken scampi on a plate alongside a generous serving of garlic Parmesan rice. If you’d like, sprinkle a bit more fresh parsley on top for a lovely touch. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Bon Appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative and will keep the dish even juicier. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through.
What If I Don’t Have White Wine?
No worries! You can easily substitute the white wine with chicken broth for a similar depth of flavor. For a bit of acidity, consider adding a splash of vinegar or an extra squeeze of lemon juice when using broth.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals or warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if the rice appears dry.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make this dish dairy-free, simply use dairy-free butter and omit the Parmesan cheese, or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. The dish will still be flavorful and delicious!
