Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice: 5 Reasons to Indulge

Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice. Seriously, this dish has it all—it’s comforting, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying! Picture tender chicken bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, served over a bed of rich, creamy garlic Parmesan rice. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a warm hug after a long day. I whip this up whenever I want to impress my family or treat myself to something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it perfect for everyone at the table. Trust me, once you try this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, it’ll become a go-to in your recipe collection!

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups rice (I prefer long-grain for this dish)
• 4 cups water (for cooking the rice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Cooking the Rice

First things first, let’s get that rice cooking! In a medium-sized pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add 2 cups of long-grain rice and a pinch of salt. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 18–20 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. Fluff it with a fork when it’s done, and set it aside while we tackle that delicious chicken!

Preparing the Chicken Scampi

Now, for the star of the show! In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. When it’s nice and bubbly, toss in 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant—oh, you’ll love that smell! Next, add the diced chicken breasts to the pan and cook them for about 5–7 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on both sides. Then, pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir it all together and let it simmer for a few minutes to meld those flavors. Finally, mix in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melty and creamy. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to your liking!

Combining and Serving

Time to bring it all together! Serve a generous scoop of that fluffy garlic Parmesan rice onto each plate, and top it off with the luscious chicken scampi. Drizzle some extra sauce over everything for good measure, and voilà! You’ve got a stunning meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation—ready in just 40 minutes!
• Flavorful garlic butter sauce that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
• Comforting and satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug.
• Gluten-free option, perfect for accommodating dietary needs.
• Ideal for family dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Tips for Success

To make sure your Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice turns out perfectly every time, here are my best tips! First, always use fresh garlic for that vibrant flavor—trust me, it makes a world of difference! When seasoning, taste as you go; everyone has different preferences, so adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Want to add a pop of color and nutrition? Toss in some fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking for a delightful twist! And don’t forget to let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving—it keeps it juicy and tender. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutrition for one serving of Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice: about 600 calories, 30g of fat, 35g of protein, and 60g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind, these values can vary based on the exact ingredients you use, but it’s a delicious and filling meal that’s sure to satisfy!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of rice? Absolutely! While I love long-grain rice for its texture, you can use jasmine, basmati, or even brown rice. Just keep an eye on the cooking times as they may vary.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can! Prepare everything and store it separately in the fridge. Just reheat the chicken and sauce on the stovetop while warming up the rice for a quick assembly!

What can I serve with Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice? This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables. A side of garlic bread would also be a fantastic addition to soak up all that delicious sauce!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you find yourself with leftovers of this delightful Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, you’re in luck! To store, simply transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it looks a bit dry. Stir it occasionally until warmed through—this helps keep everything nice and creamy. You can also use the microwave, just be sure to cover it to prevent splatters. Enjoy your tasty leftovers!

Serving Suggestions

To take your Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice to the next level, consider serving it with a light and refreshing arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens balance the richness of the dish beautifully! You could also pair it with some roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans for a pop of color and crunch. And let’s not forget a warm, crusty piece of garlic bread to soak up that delicious sauce—heavenly!

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