Description
This Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is a flavorful and comforting dish featuring tender chicken in a creamy scampi sauce over garlic-infused rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup rice (jasmine or long-grain preferred)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
For the Chicken Scampi:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Additional Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Rice:
- Bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15–18 minutes, or 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.
- 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 for 6–8 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Scampi Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth and simmer for 2–3 minutes, scraping any browned bits from the skillet.
- Add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes to thicken.
- Combine:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it with the creamy scampi sauce. Allow it to simmer for another 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
- Serve:
- Plate the garlic Parmesan rice and top it with the chicken scampi. Drizzle with extra sauce and garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Rice Alternative: Swap the rice for pasta or mashed potatoes for a delicious variation.
- Cheese Options: Add shredded mozzarella for an extra cheesy sauce.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the rice and sauce in advance; combine when ready to serve.