Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make recipe that’s packed with flavor and sure to impress? Look no further than this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice. Whether it’s a cozy evening at home or a quick dinner after a long day, this dish is perfect for any occasion. The combination of juicy, pan-seared chicken strips coated in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, paired with fluffy jasmine rice, will transport you straight to comfort food heaven.
Inspired by the classic Italian shrimp scampi, this chicken version brings all the rich, garlicky goodness without the seafood. With a touch of red pepper flakes for a little kick and a burst of fresh parsley and lemon for brightness, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of savory and fresh. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s the perfect way to create a memorable meal with minimal effort!
Ingredients for Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients for a meal that’s bursting with flavor. This recipe serves 4 people, so it’s perfect for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or just a special treat for yourself!
For the Chicken Scampi:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
How to Make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process! This recipe is simple yet full of flavor, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights or a casual weekend dinner.
1. Season the Chicken Strips
Start by seasoning the chicken strips. In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Rub the spice mix onto the chicken strips, making sure each piece is evenly coated. This seasoning blend will add a savory depth to the chicken, ensuring every bite is flavorful and juicy.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken strips. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. The goal is to get a crispy, slightly caramelized exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Keep the skillet hot, as it will be used to create the delicious garlic sauce that will bring everything together.
3. Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Lower the heat slightly to medium. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté the mixture for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant and starts to turn golden. This will infuse the oil with garlic’s rich aroma, setting the stage for the creamy sauce to come.
4. Create the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to lift any caramelized bits left from the chicken. These bits are packed with flavor and will add richness to the sauce. Let the broth simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
Next, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens up just a bit. This creates a creamy, velvety sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.
5. Add the Chicken Back In
Once the sauce has thickened, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir the chicken into the sauce, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Add the chopped fresh parsley and lemon juice, and stir again to combine. The parsley will add a fresh, vibrant color and flavor to the dish, while the lemon juice gives the sauce a bright, tangy lift that cuts through the richness of the cream and Parmesan.
6. Serve Over Rice
Now comes the fun part! Spoon the garlic Parmesan rice onto each plate. Warm, fluffy jasmine rice is the perfect base for this dish. The rice will soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite a perfect combination of creamy chicken and tender grains.
Top the rice with the creamy chicken scampi, making sure to drizzle plenty of sauce over the chicken and rice. For an extra burst of flavor, you can sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top. Serve immediately, and enjoy!
