Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
A delightful dish that combines succulent chicken, aromatic garlic, and rich parmesan for a cozy Italian experience.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Scampi
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
- ½ cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
- 1 cup Arborio rice (substitute with jasmine rice for a lighter texture)
- 3 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium canned)
- 1 cup heavy cream (Greek yogurt can be used for a healthier version)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. This ensures a smooth cooking experience without any interruptions.
Sauté the Chicken
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until they're golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and let them rest.
Create the Scampi Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the red pepper flakes, stirring well before pouring in the white wine. Let it simmer for about 3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to meld.
Finish the Chicken
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, squeeze in the lemon juice, and coat the chicken with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes and garnish with fresh parsley.
Cook the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
- In a separate pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until aromatic. Toss in the Arborio rice, stirring for about 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the chicken broth while stirring continuously.
Add Cream and Parmesan
- Once the rice is creamy and tender, reduce the heat, add heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Season with a pinch of salt to taste.
Serve
- Plate the creamy rice and top it generously with the chicken scampi. Serve warm while it's rich and inviting!
Notes
Store leftover Chicken Scampi and Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, use a low setting in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of broth to retain moisture.