Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice: 5 Steps to Delight

September 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: chicken scampi with garlic parmesan rice! It’s a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comes together in no time, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you still want to treat your family to something special. The aroma of garlic sizzling in butter? It’s pure heaven! I remember the first time I made this dish; my family gathered around the table, and as soon as they took their first bite, their eyes lit up with joy. Trust me, the combination of tender chicken in a rich, garlicky sauce served over creamy parmesan rice will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s not just a meal; it’s a memory in the making, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delightful chicken scampi with garlic parmesan rice. I promise, it’s all simple stuff you can find at your local grocery store!

2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
4 cloves garlic, minced (the more, the merrier!)
1/2 cup white wine (I love using a dry variety for the best flavor)
1/4 cup chicken broth (for a little extra moisture)
1/4 cup butter (because butter makes everything better!)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for that perfect sear)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust based on your spice preference)
1 cup rice (I usually go for long grain, but use what you like!)
2 cups chicken broth (for cooking the rice)
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (freshly grated makes a world of difference)
1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (for that pop of color and freshness)

Make sure to gather these ingredients before you start cooking. It makes the process so much smoother and way more fun!

How to Prepare Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Alright, let’s get cooking! This is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s easier than you think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on your table in no time!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

First things first, grab your trusty skillet and heat up that olive oil and butter over medium heat. You want it hot enough to hear a nice sizzle when you add the chicken. While that’s heating up, season your chicken breasts with a little salt and pepper. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, carefully place the chicken in the pan. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Trust me, the smell of that garlic and butter is going to have you drooling!

Step 2: Create the Scampi Sauce

Once your chicken is beautifully browned, it’s time to make that luscious scampi sauce! Pour in the white wine and chicken broth, scraping any delicious brown bits off the bottom of the pan (that’s flavor, my friend!). Sprinkle in those red pepper flakes for a little kick and let everything simmer for about 5-10 minutes. You want the sauce to reduce slightly and thicken up, enveloping the chicken in all that garlicky goodness. Oh, it’s going to be heavenly!

Step 3: Cook the Garlic Parmesan Rice

While your chicken is simmering away, let’s get that rice going! In another pot, combine the rice and 2 cups of chicken broth. Bring it to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Cook according to package instructions—usually about 15-20 minutes. When it’s done, stir in the grated parmesan cheese. This is where the magic happens! The cheese will melt into the rice, making it creamy and delicious. I mean, who doesn’t love cheesy rice?

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Now it’s time to plate up this beauty! Serve the chicken over a generous scoop of that garlic parmesan rice, making sure to drizzle some of that rich sauce on top. And don’t forget to sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over everything for a pop of color and freshness. Voila! You’ve got a stunning dish that’s sure to impress anyone you serve it to. Just wait until you see their faces light up when they take that first bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich, garlicky flavor that’s totally irresistible!
Chicken stays juicy and tender, thanks to the flavorful sauce.
Garlic parmesan rice is a creamy, cheesy delight that complements the chicken perfectly.
Customizable spice level; you can adjust red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Healthy ingredients that are low in fat yet packed with flavor.
Impressive enough for dinner guests but simple enough for an everyday meal.
Leftovers reheat beautifully, so you can enjoy this dish again the next day!

Tips for Success

To make sure your chicken scampi with garlic parmesan rice turns out absolutely perfect, I’ve got some handy tips to share with you! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will elevate your cooking game.

Adjust the Spice: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with just a pinch of red pepper flakes and taste the sauce as it simmers. You can always add more if you want that extra kick!
Rest the Chicken: Once your chicken is done cooking, let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices locked in, making every bite super tender and flavorful.
Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic makes all the difference in flavor! Don’t skimp on this ingredient; it’s the star of the show!
Check Rice for Doneness: Different brands of rice may require slightly different cooking times, so keep an eye on it while it cooks. Fluff it with a fork once it’s done for a light and airy texture.
Garnish Generously: Don’t be shy with the parsley! A good sprinkle not only looks beautiful but adds a fresh flavor that brightens the whole dish.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making a scrumptious chicken scampi that everyone will love. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Now, let’s talk nutrition! I always think it’s important to be aware of what we’re putting into our bodies, right? Keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. The numbers I’m sharing here are just estimates, but they’ll give you a good idea of what to expect.

For one serving of this delicious chicken scampi with garlic parmesan rice, you can anticipate:

Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 30g

So, while you’re enjoying this flavorful dish, you can also feel good about the wholesome ingredients! Just remember, these values can change a bit depending on what you choose, so it’s always a good idea to check your labels if you’re keeping an eye on specific nutrients. Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making chicken scampi with garlic parmesan rice? I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common questions I hear, along with my answers. Let’s clear up any confusion!

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can even start with the chicken frozen, but it will take longer to cook through, so keep an eye on it!

What can I substitute for white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is a great substitute. You can also use a splash of lemon juice mixed with some extra broth for that tangy flavor!

Can I make this dish in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can definitely make the garlic parmesan rice ahead of time and reheat it. Just prepare the chicken and sauce right before serving for the best flavor!

Is this chicken scampi recipe spicy?

The spice level really depends on how much red pepper flakes you add! If you’re unsure, start with a smaller amount and add more to taste as the sauce simmers. You can always adjust it to suit your preference!

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Oh, definitely! Adding some sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or even cherry tomatoes would be fantastic. Just toss them in after you’ve browned the chicken and let them cook down a bit before adding the sauce.

I hope these FAQs help you feel more confident in making this scrumptious chicken scampi with garlic parmesan rice! If you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Let’s talk about how to keep those delicious leftovers from your chicken scampi with garlic parmesan rice! Trust me, you’ll want to save every bite of this dish. Here’s how to store it properly and enjoy it again later.

First off, make sure to let the chicken and rice cool down to room temperature before you store them. This prevents condensation from making everything soggy. Once cooled, pop the chicken and garlic parmesan rice into airtight containers. If you’ve got them, glass containers work wonders because they keep everything nice and fresh. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Now, when it comes to reheating, I recommend using the stovetop if you can. Just add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan to help steam it back to life, and heat over medium-low until warmed through. This method keeps the chicken juicy and the rice creamy. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave—just cover the container with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to keep moisture in, and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your scrumptious chicken scampi with garlic parmesan rice all over again. Happy eating!

chicken scampi with garlic parmesan rice - detail 1

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out this link. If you’re interested in the health benefits of garlic, you can read more here.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.