Mediterranean Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Mediterranean Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

This Mediterranean Chicken Scampi blends the zesty, herbaceous flavors of the Mediterranean with the comforting richness of a creamy garlic parmesan rice. Juicy, pan-seared chicken is tossed in a lemon garlic butter sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and capers — all served over a bed of fluffy, cheesy rice. It’s a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and creamy in every bite — ideal for weeknight dinners or an impressive dish for guests.

Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Chicken Scampi:

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into thin strips or bite-sized pieces)

3 tbsp olive oil (divided)

4 garlic cloves (minced)

1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)

Juice of 1 lemon

1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (julienned)

1/4 cup pitted kalamata olives (halved)

1 tbsp capers (drained)

1 tsp dried oregano

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 tbsp unsalted butter

Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Grated Parmesan (for garnish)

For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:

1 cup long grain white rice (jasmine or basmati work well)

2 tbsp butter

3 garlic cloves (minced)

2 1/4 cups chicken broth

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Make the Garlic Parmesan Rice

In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Stir in the rice and toast for 2 minutes.

Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.

Stir in Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper, and fluff with a fork. Cover and keep warm.

Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and oregano.

Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken in batches (avoid crowding), cooking until golden and cooked through, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove to a plate and set aside.

Prepare the Scampi Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 1 tbsp olive oil and the garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add red pepper flakes (if using), sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and capers. Cook for 1–2 minutes.

Deglaze the pan with white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly reduced.

Stir in lemon juice and butter, letting it melt to create a silky sauce.

Return chicken to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Serve

Spoon garlic parmesan rice onto plates.

Top with chicken scampi and drizzle with extra pan sauce.

Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Pairing Suggestion

Serve with a glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, and maybe a simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette.

Pro Tips for Success

Slice Chicken Evenly

Cut the chicken into uniform strips or cubes for even cooking.

For ultra-tender pieces, lightly pound chicken breasts to even thickness before slicing.

Don’t Skip the Lemon

Fresh lemon juice is key for that bright Mediterranean flavor — add a little zest for even more citrus punch.

Fluff Rice Properly

After cooking, let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes off heat, then fluff gently with a fork for the best texture.

Deglaze Wisely

Use wine for authentic flavor, but if you’re substituting with broth, add a splash of white wine vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the acidity.

Layer Garlic Flavor

Use garlic in both the rice and the chicken scampi for a deeper flavor profile, but sauté gently to avoid burning and bitterness.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Mediterranean Scampi

Increase red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne for a spicier kick.

Creamy Chicken Scampi

Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a spoonful of mascarpone into the scampi sauce at the end for a richer, silkier dish.

Veggie-Packed Version

Add sautéed zucchini, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or artichoke hearts to the scampi for a more colorful and nutritious meal.

Seafood Swap

Replace chicken with shrimp or scallops for a true scampi-style Mediterranean seafood dish.

One-Pan Option

Cook rice in a deep skillet with the chicken (parboil rice separately for best results), then combine everything in the same pan for easier cleanup.

Dairy-Free Version

Skip the Parmesan and butter; use olive oil and a little nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.

Gluten-Free Option

The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free broth and avoid flour-coated chicken (some pre-cooked versions may include it).

Serve With…

Garlic flatbread, toasted pita, or a side of lemony couscous or quinoa make great pairings.

Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prep the rice and chicken separately a day ahead. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

Q: What can I use instead of white wine?

A: Substitute with chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice or white wine vinegar for acidity.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?

A: Definitely. Replace chicken with chickpeas or grilled halloumi, and use veggie broth in the rice and sauce.

Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?

A: Yes! Just omit the red pepper flakes for a milder version. Kids typically love the garlic-parmesan rice.

Q: How can I make it low-carb or keto?

A: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice or serve the scampi over sautéed zucchini noodles or wilted spinach.

Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and can vary depending on exact ingredients used.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is the perfect fusion of bold Mediterranean ingredients and comforting, creamy rice. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish offers freshness, richness, and warmth all on one plate.

From the lemony, garlicky chicken to the savory Parmesan rice, every bite delivers a balance of flavor and satisfaction. Plus, it’s flexible enough to adjust to your dietary needs or preferences.