This easy chicken scampi is a winner! Tender chicken is cooked with garlic and butter, creating a yummy dish that’s both flavorful and comforting.
The garlic parmesan rice is the perfect sidekick—it soaks up all the delicious sauce, making every bite better. Cooking this feels like a cozy hug on a plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Chicken breast is a classic choice for this dish because it’s lean and cooks quickly. You can swap them with chicken thighs for a richer flavor or even use shrimp for a seafood twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key in this recipe, bringing a punch of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work; however, fresh will always taste better. Shallots can also add a nice touch if you prefer a milder taste.
White Wine: While the recipe calls for dry white wine, if you don’t have any, chicken broth works just as well! For a non-alcoholic option, use a mix of apple cider vinegar and water. This adds a bit of acidity that brightens the dish.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds great depth. In a pinch, pecorino Romano is a good substitute, or you could use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Can I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be a challenge, but here’s how to do it well:
- Start by ensuring your chicken is at room temperature before cooking to promote even cooking.
- Make sure to heat the skillet before adding oil and chicken; it helps to sear the meat and lock in juices.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if necessary. This way, the chicken will brown rather than steam.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy!
Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Scampi:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and then about 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection. Get ready to enjoy a tasty dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Then, stir in 1 cup of long-grain white rice, making sure each grain is coated in that lovely garlic butter. Next, pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. When it’s ready, remove it from the heat, stir in the 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep it covered while you prepare the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken Scampi:
Now for the star of the show! Season the 4 chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. Heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the 1/2 cup of dry white wine (or chicken broth) and scrape up any delicious brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let this simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce reduces a bit. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, along with red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon some of the sauce over it, and cook for another minute to warm the chicken through and let those flavors meld together. Finally, sprinkle with chopped parsley.
3. Serve:
It’s time to enjoy! On your plates, add a generous amount of the garlic Parmesan rice, placing the chicken scampi on top or right beside it. Drizzle the extra sauce over both the chicken and the rice for maximum flavor. If you’d like, finish with a little bit of extra parsley for garnish. Sit back, relax, and savor this cozy and delicious meal—you deserve it!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking! Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave for a quicker option. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain its juicy texture.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is a perfect substitute! You can also mix a little apple cider vinegar with water (1:1 ratio) for acidity. This will brighten the dish without adding alcohol.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
Can I Make This Without Rice?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, serve the chicken scampi over zucchini noodles, spiralized carrots, or a fresh green salad. You’ll still get all the delicious flavors without the rice!
