Irresistible Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

The rich aroma of Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to the table. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a buttery garlic sauce, accompanied by fluffy rice that boasts creamy Parmesan goodness. It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary hug that warms the heart and delights the senses.

This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at a dinner party. With each bite, you’ll remember why food can be so much more than sustenance; it’s about connection, comfort, and sometimes just the pure joy of eating something delicious.

Ingredients for Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.

• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; they add a punch to your scampi.

• Butter: Use unsalted butter for cooking; it complements the flavors without overwhelming them.

• Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil helps with sautéing and adds richness.

• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth enhances flavor without adding too much salt.

For the Sauce:

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances the richness beautifully.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a creamy texture and umami flavor that ties everything together.

For the Rice:

• Long-Grain White Rice: This type of rice cooks up fluffy and absorbs flavors wonderfully.

• Heavy Cream: Just a splash creates a dreamy texture in your rice that’s hard to resist.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before diving into cooking, gather all your ingredients. Chop the garlic finely and have your chicken breasts ready to go. This organization will make cooking smoother than butter sliding down hot toast.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt half of your butter along with some olive oil. Season each chicken breast with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet. Cook each side until golden brown—around five minutes per side should do it.

Step 3: Create That Amazing Sauce

Once your chicken is cooked through (check that they reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F), remove them from the skillet and set aside. In that delightful leftover butter and oil mixture, toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—remember not to burn it! Add lemon juice and chicken broth next; let it simmer for about five minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

In another pot, bring water to a boil for your long-grain white rice. Cook according to package instructions until fluffy and tender. When done, stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese for that indulgent touch.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return your chicken back into the skillet filled with sauce; let everything simmer together for another few minutes so those flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Serve generous portions of Garlic Parmesan Rice topped with succulent chicken pieces drizzled in that heavenly sauce. Perhaps sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top because why not? Every bite deserves an extra punch of cheesy goodness!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice while basking in compliments from family or friends—you’ve earned it!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the garlic in the same pan to infuse flavor. While that’s happening, prepare your rice to soak up all those delicious scampi juices for a complete meal experience.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap regular rice for quinoa or add seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as basil or parsley, to give your dish a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to keep everything moist and flavorful, ensuring it tastes just as good as when freshly made.

Cooking Chicken Scampi always reminds me of that dinner party where my friends couldn’t stop raving about how good the food was—it felt like I had just received a Michelin star right in my kitchen!

FAQs:

What is Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice?

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken pieces sautéed in a buttery garlic sauce with a side of creamy, cheesy rice. The garlic and Parmesan enhance the flavor of the chicken, creating a deliciously rich meal. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, as it is both quick to prepare and satisfying.

How can I make Chicken Scampi healthier?

To make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice healthier, consider using skinless chicken breast and substituting whole grain or cauliflower rice for a lighter option. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of butter used and incorporate more vegetables into the dish. Adding spinach or broccoli not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant color to your plate.

Can I prepare Chicken Scampi in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice in advance. Cook the chicken and rice separately, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you are ready to serve, simply reheat them together on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or busy weeknights.

What sides pair well with Chicken Scampi?

When serving Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, consider pairing it with a light salad or steamed vegetables. A simple mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish nicely. Roasted asparagus or green beans also provide a fresh contrast that enhances your overall dining experience.

Conclusion for Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice:

In summary, Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice offers a delicious blend of flavors that make it a favorite among many. The combination of tender chicken and creamy garlic Parmesan rice creates a satisfying meal suitable for various occasions. By following simple tips to elevate this dish, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality experience right at home. Whether you’re preparing it for family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe will surely impress!

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Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

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Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken sautéed in a rich buttery garlic sauce with creamy, cheesy rice. This comforting meal is perfect for cozy family gatherings or impressing guests at dinner parties. With its mouthwatering flavors and elegant presentation, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions

1. Gather and prepare all ingredients, chopping the garlic and seasoning the chicken.
2. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of at least 165°F). Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice; simmer for approximately 5 minutes.
4. Cook rice according to package instructions in a separate pot. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese once cooked.
5. Return chicken to the skillet with the sauce; let everything simmer together for a few minutes.
6. Serve the chicken over the creamy rice, drizzled with sauce and garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, incorporate seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes into the dish. Substitute quinoa for rice for a healthier twist.