This tasty chicken scampi features juicy chicken in a buttery garlic sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner. It also comes with creamy parmesan rice that makes it a comforting meal!
I love how the garlic and parmesan flavors blend together. Plus, who can resist that creamy rice? It’s my go-to recipe when I want something easy yet fancy. Give it a try! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with. If you prefer dark meat, thighs work wonderfully too. They add more flavor and stay moist during cooking.
Olive Oil: It’s great for cooking, but feel free to use butter or avocado oil if that’s what you have on hand. Buttery flavor would match the dish nicely!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is crucial for flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder (about 1/4 teaspoon per clove) can substitute, but fresh is best for that punch you want.
Red Pepper Flakes: If you don’t like spicy, you can leave these out. Alternatively, you could add black pepper or a dash of hot sauce later for a milder kick.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half. Coconut milk would be a dairy-free option but might alter the flavor slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds depth. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or even a similar hard cheese works well! Vegan cheese is a great substitute too.
How Do I Get My Chicken to Cook Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but perfectly cooked chicken is all about timing and temperature. Here’s how to ensure it turns out juicy:
- Start with chicken at room temperature. This helps it cook evenly.
- Heat your skillet before adding the oil; this ensures a good sear!
- Cook the chicken undisturbed for 5-6 minutes on each side. This forms a nice crust.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer—165°F (75°C) is the target.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
Easy Chicken Scampi With Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Scampi:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black 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)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients, and then about 20 minutes on cooking. Quick enough for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Then, add the rice, stirring well to coat it with the garlic and butter.
Next, pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover it with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste, and keep it warm.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the rice is cooking, season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Scampi Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until it becomes aromatic. Then, pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, using a spatula to scrape any bits off the bottom of the pan. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, letting it reduce slightly. Now, stir in the unsalted butter until it melts and the sauce is smooth.
4. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning some of that flavorful sauce over the top. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for some fresh flavor and color. Serve each chicken breast over a generous bed of the creamy garlic Parmesan rice, and enjoy this delightful and easy dish!
Enjoy your delicious and easy Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice! Bon appétit! 😊
FAQ for Easy Chicken Scampi With Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just be sure to thaw them completely beforehand, ideally overnight in the fridge. If you’re short on time, you can submerge the sealed chicken in cold water for about an hour to thaw it quickly.
What Are Some Alternatives to Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for lighter options, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut milk or a plant-based cream. Just be aware that the flavor and texture might vary slightly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of additional chicken broth or cream to keep everything nice and creamy.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the scampi sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it on the stovetop before adding the chicken. Freshly cooked chicken is best for optimal flavor and texture.
