This Easy Chicken Scampi is a tasty dish with tender chicken and a flavorful garlic butter sauce. Paired with yummy Parmesan rice, it’s a meal that feels special and is fun to make!
You’ll love how quickly it comes together. When I make this, I sometimes pretend I’m dining at a fancy restaurant, but really, I’m just at home in my PJs! 😄
Plus, that garlic Parmesan rice is so good, I could just eat it on its own. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top makes it look pretty, right? Just like a chef! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish, as they cook quickly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, skinless chicken thighs would work beautifully and add extra moisture.
Olive oil: This is the primary fat for cooking the chicken. You can substitute it with butter for a richer flavor or use avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds great flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder, but I always recommend fresh as it has more punch.
White wine: A splash of dry white wine enhances the sauce. If you prefer not to use wine, just add more chicken broth instead for a non-alcoholic version.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for this recipe, but you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or a vegan cheese as a dairy-free option.
How Can I Perfectly Cook the Chicken for Scampi?
To get the chicken perfectly cooked and golden brown, follow these tips:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to sear and lock in juices.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; it can lead to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
This simple technique will give you juicy chicken that pairs nicely with the flavorful scampi sauce. Don’t forget to let it rest a few minutes before slicing to keep it tender!
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 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or additional chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe requires about 10 minutes of preparation time and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you should expect to spend about 40 minutes from start to finish, making it an easy weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s nice and melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, just until you can smell the wonderful garlic aroma. Then, add the rice and stir it around to coat it with the buttery garlic goodness. Next, pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, bring it all to a boil, then cover, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer for about 15 to 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. After that, take it off the heat, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover it again and let it sit.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the rice is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, 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. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—oh, the smell is amazing! Next, pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and white wine (or more chicken broth if you prefer). Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it bubble away for about 3 to 4 minutes so it can reduce slightly. Stir in the butter until it melts, then add the chopped parsley for a fresh flavor kick.
4. Combine and Serve:
Now it’s time to reunite the chicken with that delicious sauce! Return the chicken to the skillet, and spoon the sauce lovingly over the top. Let it heat together for another 1 to 2 minutes. Finally, serve up the chicken alongside generous scoops of your garlic Parmesan rice. Don’t forget to sprinkle with extra parsley for that lovely presentation—and enjoy every bite of your Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice!
Bon appétit! 🥳
FAQ for Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken first. Thaw the frozen chicken breasts overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method by sealing them in a plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for about an hour. Pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly.
Can I Make the Garlic Parmesan Rice Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the garlic Parmesan rice a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up if necessary.
What if I Don’t Have White Wine on Hand?
No worries! You can substitute with additional chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version. If you want to keep some acidity, a splash of apple cider vinegar or extra lemon juice can work in a pinch.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. You may want to add a little splash of broth or water to revive the sauce.
