Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Chicken Scampi paired with creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice. This delightful combination brings together tender chicken sautéed to perfection and aromatic rice infused with garlic and Parmesan, creating a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this one-pan dish offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The succulent chicken, complemented by the creamy, flavorful rice, ensures that every bite is a treat for your taste buds. Gather your loved ones and enjoy this hearty meal that promises warmth and deliciousness in every serving.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions:
- Season the chicken tenderloins with garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- In a large nonstick skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sauté until browned and cooked through, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, keeping it warm.
- In the same skillet, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for about 2 minutes, ensuring the garlic becomes fragrant but does not brown.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and pour in the white wine. Stir continuously, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet, and cook until the liquid reduces by half, about 5 minutes.
- Remove and set aside 2 tablespoons of the pan sauce for later use.
- Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the remaining pan sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir well, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the rice simmer for 20 minutes, or until tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Once the rice is cooked, stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Place the cooked chicken tenderloins back into the skillet on top of the rice. Drizzle the reserved 2 tablespoons of pan sauce over the chicken. Cover the skillet and let it rest off the heat for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 520 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
Origins of Chicken Scampi
Chicken Scampi is a variation of the classic Shrimp Scampi, an Italian-American dish that originated from Italian immigrants adapting traditional recipes to American ingredients. The word “scampi” refers to a type of small lobster, but in the U.S., it has evolved into a garlic-butter sauce dish often served with pasta or rice. Chicken Scampi follows the same preparation, substituting shrimp with tender chicken for a heartier and more widely accessible version.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
- Searing the Chicken Properly – Sauté the chicken in a hot skillet for a golden-brown crust while keeping the inside tender.
- Deglazing the Pan with Wine – Scraping up the browned bits after adding white wine enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Toasting the Rice – Lightly toasting the rice before adding broth gives it a nuttier, more aromatic flavor.
- Simmering the Rice to Perfection – Keeping the heat low and covering the pan ensures even cooking, preventing mushy or undercooked rice.
- Resting the Dish – Letting the dish sit off the heat for a few minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup makes it perfect for busy nights.
- Packed with Flavor – The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a restaurant-quality meal at home.
- Family-Friendly – Mild yet savory flavors make it appealing to both kids and adults.
- Quick and Easy – Ready in under an hour, this dish is great for last-minute meals.
Key Ingredients and Their Role
Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the signature garlicky, buttery, and slightly tangy flavor of Chicken Scampi.
- Chicken Tenderloins – These cook quickly, staying juicy and tender.
- Garlic – The star ingredient, adding deep aroma and flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese – Brings a creamy, salty umami richness to the rice.
- White Wine – Adds mild acidity to balance the richness; can be replaced with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
- Chicken Broth – Enhances the flavor of the rice as it cooks, making it extra delicious.
- Butter & Olive Oil – A classic combination that creates a rich, flavorful base for the sauce.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Gives a mild kick, enhancing the dish’s overall warmth.
- Rice – Absorbs the flavorful broth and butter, making it creamy and soft.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
- Sear the Chicken First – This locks in moisture and adds a golden-brown crust for extra flavor.
- Use Fresh Garlic – Pre-minced garlic in a jar lacks the same depth of flavor.
- Deglaze with Wine or Broth – This helps lift the browned bits from the pan, adding complexity to the sauce.
- Toast the Rice Slightly – Cooking it in butter before adding broth enhances its texture and taste.
- Simmer Gently – Cooking the rice on low heat ensures it stays fluffy, not mushy.
- Let the Dish Rest – Allowing the dish to sit off the heat for a few minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Variations and Substitutions
This dish is versatile and can be customized based on dietary needs and preferences.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in a bit of heavy cream or cream cheese for an extra luxurious texture.
- Swap the Protein: Use shrimp, salmon, or even tofu instead of chicken for a different take.
- Go Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of Cajun seasoning.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- Vegetable Additions: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing the right sides and drinks can elevate this dish even further.
- With a Side of Greens: A simple Caesar salad or sautéed asparagus complements the richness of the scampi.
- With Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
- With a Light White Wine: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the garlic and Parmesan flavors.
- With Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish.
What Makes This Dish Special?
- One-Pan Simplicity – Everything is cooked in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze.
- Rich, Garlicky Flavor – A perfect blend of buttery, garlicky goodness infused into both the chicken and rice.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home – Tastes like a dish from an Italian bistro, but made in your own kitchen.
- Family-Friendly – The creamy Parmesan rice and tender chicken make it a hit with both kids and adults.
- Customizable – Easily adaptable to different proteins, spice levels, or additional veggies.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store and reheat it with these tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the rice from drying out.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the rice may become mushy after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this dish without wine?
Yes! Simply replace the white wine with extra chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice.
2. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
You can, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Increase the broth amount and adjust the simmering time accordingly.
3. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Skip the Parmesan cheese and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Also, replace butter with dairy-free butter or extra olive oil.
4. What’s the best way to make this dish ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and rice separately, then combine and reheat before serving for the freshest texture.
Conclusion
Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a rich, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, creamy Parmesan rice, and a garlicky butter sauce, it delivers restaurant-quality taste in just one pan. Simple yet satisfying, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a comforting, homemade meal! 🍽️✨