This easy chicken scampi is a tasty treat with juicy chicken, lots of garlic, and a splash of lemon. It’s all cooked up together to create a warm and wonderful meal!
The garlic parmesan rice is the star here; it absorbs all those yummy flavors. I could eat it by itself! Just cook the chicken, mix it up, and dinner is ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you want a lighter option, chicken thighs are a great substitute as they’re more flavorful and tender.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that robust flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use garlic powder (about 1/4 teaspoon per clove) but fresh really is best for taste!
Chicken Broth or White Wine: Either works for adding depth to your dish! If you don’t have either, vegetable broth or even water can suffice, though the flavor may be milder.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan really enhances the rice. If you’re lactose-intolerant, try a nut-based cheese instead, or skip it for a lighter version.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives control over saltiness. If you want a dairy-free option, use olive oil or a plant-based butter replacement.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky. Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and not overcooked:
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
- If the chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, consider pounding them to a uniform thickness for even cooking.
With these tips, your chicken will be cooked to perfection every time! Enjoy making this tasty dish.
Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Scampi:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meal will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the rice and chicken, with cooking time for the chicken being around 12-15 minutes. The rest of the time is for simmering your scampi sauce and bringing it all together. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant—this should take about 1 minute. Then, mix in the rice, stirring well to coat it with the garlic butter. Pour in the water or chicken broth, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. After it boils, cover the pot, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Once done, remove it from heat and gently stir in the Parmesan cheese. Keep it covered to stay warm.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Now, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add in the chicken breasts and cook until they’re golden brown and cooked through—this takes about 5-6 minutes per side, depending on how thick your chicken is. Once they’re done, take them out of the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Scampi Sauce:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell the aroma. Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) and add the fresh lemon juice, making sure to scrape any tasty browned bits off the bottom of the pan to enhance the flavor. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes so it reduces slightly and thickens up.
4. Finish the Sauce:
To make your sauce creamy and delicious, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Now, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Allow everything to cook together for an additional minute to heat through.
5. Serve:
It’s time to enjoy your creation! Take a scoop of the garlic Parmesan rice and plate it beautifully. Top it with the chicken scampi, and don’t forget to spoon over some of that tasty sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The safest way is to thaw them overnight in the fridge, or you can place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for faster thawing.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine in the Scampi Sauce?
If you prefer not to use white wine, chicken broth works perfectly as a substitute. If you’d like a non-alcoholic option, simply use an equal amount of extra broth or even a splash of apple cider vinegar mixed with water for a bit of acidity!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth or water if needed to loosen the rice and sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and scampi sauce in advance, then store them separately from the rice. Just heat everything together before serving for a quick dinner. The rice is best made fresh as it can become mushy when stored.
