35 Minute Chicken Scampi Recipe with Decadent Garlic Parmesan Rice

Oh my gosh, you have to try my Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice! This dish became my weeknight hero when I desperately needed something fast but didn’t want to sacrifice flavor. The garlicky chicken paired with that creamy, cheesy rice? Absolute perfection in under 35 minutes. I’ll never forget the first time I made it – my kitchen smelled like a fancy Italian restaurant, and my family practically licked their plates clean. What I love most is how simple ingredients transform into something spectacular. The golden chicken strips soak up all that garlic butter goodness while the rice cooks right in the same pan, absorbing every bit of flavor. Trust me, this one’s a keeper!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

This dish checks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight meal:

• Ready in just 35 minutes – faster than takeout!
• Bursting with garlicky, cheesy flavor that feels restaurant-worthy
• Only one skillet needed – less cleanup means more relaxation
• Simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen
• The rice cooks right in the pan, soaking up all that delicious chicken flavor

I make this at least twice a month because it never fails to impress, even though it’s so easy. The way the parmesan melts into the rice? Pure magic.

Ingredients for Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavor-packed dish (and trust me, every ingredient plays a special role!):

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – sliced into ½-inch strips (they cook faster and get more golden edges this way)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice – the perfect texture for soaking up all that garlicky goodness
• 2 cups chicken broth – makes the rice extra flavorful (I swear by Swanson’s)
• 4 cloves garlic – minced (fresh is best – no jarred stuff for this recipe!)
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese – the real stuff, not the powdery kind
• 2 tbsp butter – because everything’s better with butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil – for that perfect chicken sear
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley – chopped (the pop of green makes it pretty)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional but recommended if you like a little kick)

See? Nothing fancy – just simple ingredients that create something magical together!

Equipment You’ll Need

You probably already have everything you need for this recipe right in your kitchen! Just grab:

• A large skillet (I use my trusty 12-inch one)
• Wooden spoon (perfect for stirring without scratching)
• Measuring cups (for perfect rice-to-broth ratio)
• Sharp knife (makes quick work of chicken slicing)

That’s it – no fancy gadgets required for this delicious meal!

How to Make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Okay, let’s get cooking! This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, and I’ll walk you through each one. The magic happens when the chicken and rice cook in the same pan – all those flavors mingle together beautifully!

Cooking the Chicken

First, heat that olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat – you want it nice and hot before adding the chicken. Carefully lay in your chicken strips (listen for that satisfying sizzle!) and let them cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes per side. We’re going for golden perfection here – those crispy edges add so much flavor. Don’t crowd the pan, or they’ll steam instead of brown!

Preparing the Garlic Parmesan Rice

Now for my favorite part! Remove the chicken and melt the butter in that same skillet (all those tasty browned bits stay right where we want them). Add the garlic and stir for just 30 seconds – you’ll smell when it’s ready! Toss in the rice and stir to coat every grain in that garlic butter. Let it toast for about a minute – this gives the rice incredible depth of flavor.

Pour in the chicken broth, salt, and pepper, then bring it to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. No peeking! That steam is doing important work. When the rice is tender and all liquid absorbed, stir in the parmesan and half the parsley – watch how it transforms into creamy, cheesy perfection.

Combining and Serving

Time to reunite the chicken with its rice! Nestle those golden strips back into the skillet to warm through – about 2 minutes does the trick. Sprinkle with remaining parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Serve immediately while it’s piping hot – that first bite of garlicky chicken with cheesy rice is pure comfort food heaven!

Tips for Perfect Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

After making this dish dozens of times, I’ve picked up some tricks that take it from good to “wow!” every time:

• Fresh garlic is non-negotiable – that pre-minced stuff just doesn’t give the same punch of flavor
• Adjust the heat to your taste – start with ¼ tsp red pepper flakes and add more if you like it spicy
• Chicken broth makes all the difference – water works in a pinch, but broth gives that rich depth of flavor
• Let the rice rest – after cooking, leave it covered for 5 minutes off heat for perfect texture

These little touches make this simple dish taste like something from your favorite Italian spot!

Ingredient Substitutions and Notes

Life happens, and sometimes you need to improvise! Here’s how to adapt this recipe when your pantry isn’t cooperating:

• Broth substitute: Water works fine, but add an extra pinch of salt and maybe a teaspoon of garlic powder for flavor
• Parmesan alternatives: Pecorino Romano or Asiago add similar salty richness
• Rice options: Jasmine rice cooks beautifully here, though timing may vary slightly

The key is keeping that garlicky, cheesy essence – everything else can bend a little!

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

This dish shines all on its own, but I love rounding it out with some simple sides! Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus add fresh crunch – just drizzle with olive oil and lemon. For carb lovers, warm crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that garlicky sauce. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness beautifully too. Honestly though? My family usually just wants seconds of the main event!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers? Lucky you! Store this chicken scampi airtight in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to bring back that creamy texture – microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between. The garlic actually gets more flavorful overnight!

Frequently Asked Questions

I get so many questions about this recipe – here are the ones that pop up most often from friends and readers!

Can I use frozen chicken? Absolutely! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking. Wet chicken won’t get that gorgeous golden crust we love. If you’re in a pinch, you can quick-thaw in cold water – just change the water every 30 minutes.

How can I make it spicier? Oh, I love this question! Beyond adding more red pepper flakes, try stirring in a pinch of cayenne with the garlic. For real heat lovers, top with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of chili oil before serving.

Can I use brown rice? You can, but it needs some adjustments. Increase broth to 2½ cups and cooking time to 40-45 minutes. The texture will be chewier, but still delicious! Just keep an eye on liquid levels as it cooks.

Nutritional Information

Just a quick note – these nutritional values are estimates based on standard ingredients. Your exact numbers might vary depending on brands and any substitutions you make!

Estimated Nutrition per Serving

Each delicious serving of this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice contains approximately:

• 450 calories
• 15g fat (6g saturated)
• 30g protein – hello, muscle fuel!
• 45g carbohydrates
• 90mg cholesterol
• 600mg sodium

Not bad for a meal that tastes this indulgent, right? The chicken keeps it protein-packed while that garlic parmesan rice satisfies those carb cravings!

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