Name: Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American Italian
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon paprika; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 garlic cloves, minced; ½ cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tablespoon butter; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

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Introduction

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a deliciously comforting dish featuring tender pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a garlicky lemon-butter sauce. Paired with creamy parmesan-infused rice, it’s a perfect meal for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

The image shows a close-up of a white plate filled with a bed of fluffy white rice topped with several grilled chicken pieces. The chicken has a golden-brown color with slight char marks and looks juicy. Cherry tomatoes are scattered among the chicken, adding bright red color to the dish. The dish is garnished with finely chopped green herbs sprinkled evenly on top. The overall texture of the chicken is slightly crispy on the outside, while the rice looks soft and fluffy. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
3 tablespoons butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon butter (for rice)
2 garlic cloves, minced (for rice)
1 cup white rice
2 cups chicken broth (for rice)
½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for rice)

Instructions

Step 1: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter and garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. Add lemon zest and simmer for 3–4 minutes.
Step 5: Return chicken to the pan, spoon sauce over it, and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Step 6: In a medium saucepan, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté briefly.
Step 7: Stir in white rice and toast for 1 minute.
Step 8: Add chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
Step 9: Remove from heat. Stir in parmesan cheese and parsley.
Step 10: Serve chicken over rice with sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with extra parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.

Tips & Variations

Let the chicken rest a few minutes before slicing to lock in moisture.
Use fresh garlic and freshly grated parmesan for the boldest flavor.
Add a splash of cream to the sauce for an extra luscious touch.
Swap white rice for linguine or angel hair pasta to create a classic scampi pasta.
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, richer taste, adjusting cooking time accordingly.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The rice may absorb some sauce, so when reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to preserve the sauce’s texture.

How to Serve

A white plate holds grilled chicken pieces with a slightly charred, golden-brown surface, topped with finely chopped green herbs and halved cherry tomatoes scattered over the chicken. Beneath the chicken, there is a bed of fluffy white rice mixed with small bits of herbs, giving subtle green specks throughout. The colors contrast nicely, with the warm tones of the chicken and tomatoes sitting on fresh white rice, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F. You can also slice into the thickest part—if the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink, it’s fully cooked.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs provide a juicier bite and richer flavor. Make sure to adjust cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked through.

Is it okay to use pre-minced garlic?

Fresh garlic delivers the best flavor, but pre-minced garlic works in a pinch. Just note that the flavor might be milder.

Can I swap rice with pasta?

Yes! Linguine or angel hair pasta pairs wonderfully when tossed in the scampi sauce before adding the chicken.

What type of parmesan cheese should I use?

Freshly grated parmesan is ideal for better melting and flavor. Avoid pre-shredded parmesan that contains anti-caking agents.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Chicken and sauce freeze well, but rice may have a poorer texture when thawed. Reheat gently to maintain sauce quality.