Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is a rich, comforting dish that pairs tender chicken in a velvety Parmesan sauce with buttery garlic rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal, this recipe is bursting with flavor and easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and flavorful: A creamy garlic Parmesan sauce elevates the dish.
Comfort food at its best: Perfect for satisfying cravings on a cozy night in.

Quick and easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Family-friendly: A crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Versatile: Customize with vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup rice (preferably jasmine or long-grain)
2 cups chicken broth (for rice)
1 tbsp butter

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil.
Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and stir in 1 tbsp butter. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat with the creamy sauce.
Let it cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Serve

Plate the garlic Parmesan rice and top with the chicken scampi.
Drizzle with extra sauce and garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Variations

Add vegetables: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for added nutrients.
Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a hint of heat.
Cheese swaps: Use Pecorino Romano or a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella.

Pasta option: Substitute the rice with pasta, such as fettuccine or linguine.
Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a non-dairy version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals.
Freezing: The rice and chicken can be frozen in separate containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and add more richness to the dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the rice and sauce separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.

How can I thicken the sauce further?

Simmer the sauce longer or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

What’s the best rice for this recipe?

Jasmine or long-grain rice is recommended for its fluffy texture and mild flavor.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Milk can be used, but the sauce will be less creamy. Consider adding a bit of cornstarch for thickness.

Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese?

Yes, Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese are good alternatives.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as written, the recipe is gluten-free. Double-check your chicken broth and Parmesan cheese labels to ensure compliance.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I add shrimp to this recipe?

Absolutely! Cook shrimp separately and add it to the sauce for a surf-and-turf variation.

How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Simmer the sauce over medium-low heat and avoid boiling to maintain its creamy consistency.

Conclusion

Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, a luxurious Parmesan sauce, and buttery garlic rice, this recipe is both comforting and elegant. Serve it for dinner tonight and enjoy the delightful flavors of this homemade masterpiece!