Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Craving a restaurant-quality meal at home? This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delicious twist on classic shrimp scampi, featuring tender, golden-brown chicken in a garlicky, buttery lemon sauce. Served over a rich and creamy Parmesan-infused rice, this dish is packed with flavor and perfect for a cozy dinner.
The combination of succulent pan-seared chicken, aromatic garlic, tangy lemon, and cheesy rice creates a mouthwatering balance of flavors. This easy-to-make meal is both elegant and comforting, making it ideal for weeknights or special occasions.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Scampi:
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into cutlets)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/3 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for low-carb)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for creamier sauce)
Juice of 1 lemon
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup long-grain rice (Basmati or Jasmine)
2 cups chicken broth (or water)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for creamier rice)
Instructions:
Make the Garlic Parmesan Rice
Heat butter and olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in rice, coating it in the garlic butter for about 1 minute.
Pour in chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until rice is tender.
Stir in Parmesan cheese (and heavy cream, if using). Cover and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken Scampi
Season chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Dredge chicken lightly in flour, shaking off excess.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Make the Scampi Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter and add garlic. Cook for 30 seconds.
Pour in white wine (or extra broth) and chicken broth, scraping up browned bits.
Stir in lemon juice and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
(Optional) Add heavy cream for a richer sauce.
Serve & Garnish
Fluff the garlic Parmesan rice and plate it.
Top with chicken scampi and drizzle with extra sauce.
Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.
Serve immediately and enjoy! 😋
Tips & Tricks:
For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs mixed with flour for the chicken.
Want more zest? Add extra lemon zest for a fresh burst of flavor.
No wine? Swap it with more chicken broth and a splash of apple cider vinegar.
Make it spicy with more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
Low-carb option: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: ~550
Protein: 40g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is creamy, garlicky, and packed with flavor—perfect for a satisfying dinner!