This Easy Chicken Scampi is a tasty delight, featuring tender chicken cooked in a buttery garlic sauce. Pair it with creamy garlic Parmesan rice, and you’re in for a treat!
You know those nights when you want something special without the fuss? This dish is perfect! I love how the rice soaks up all that yummy garlic flavor. It’s a winner every time! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you have thighs on hand, they work great too! They have a little more flavor and stay juicier when cooked.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with garlic powder, but fresh really does make a difference!
Chicken Broth or White Wine: Chicken broth keeps things simple, but a splash of white wine adds extra depth. If you want a non-alcoholic option, just use broth or even water mixed with some vinegar for brightness.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is ideal, but you can swap it out for jasmine or basmati rice if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking times as they might differ slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for melting and flavor. However, if you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting chicken just right can be tricky! Here are some steps to help you out:
- Start with a hot skillet for a nice sear. This helps lock in juices.
- Cook the chicken over medium-high heat for even cooking. Aim for about 5-6 minutes per side.
- To check for doneness, use an instant-read thermometer; it should read 165°F. If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking for a few minutes. This allows juices to redistribute.
Following these steps will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken for your scampi! Enjoy your meal!
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 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth (or white wine)
- 1 lemon, juiced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook. So, in about 35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it until fragrant, which takes about 1 minute. Next, add the rice and stir it to coat in the buttery garlic mixture. Pour in the water or chicken broth, sprinkle a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. Once done, remove it from the heat and gently stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep it covered while you move on to the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the rice is cooking, take the chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook them for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Scampi Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Let it melt, and then add the minced garlic, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Carefully pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) and squeeze in the lemon juice. If you like a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce slightly for about 3-4 minutes, mixing everything well.
4. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the delicious sauce over the top. Heat everything together for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld. Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the chicken scampi alongside the creamy garlic Parmesan rice.
Enjoy your flavorful, easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice! It’s a wonderful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends! 🍽️
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 to fully thaw it before cooking. The best method is to transfer it to the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quick thawing.
What Can I Substitute for the White Wine?
If you prefer not to use white wine, chicken broth is a fantastic substitute that complements the flavors nicely. You can also use a bit of apple cider vinegar mixed with water, or just stick with plain chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the rice seems dry. You can also microwave it, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken scampi and the rice a few hours in advance. Just keep them separate until ready to serve. When you’re ready, reheat both on the stove, gently combining them in the skillet for a few minutes to bring everything up to temperature.
