Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice: A Flavorful One-Skillet Dish

When you’re in the mood for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is the perfect solution. This rich and flavorful dish combines tender chicken, buttery garlic sauce, and creamy Parmesan-infused rice for a one-skillet masterpiece. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• One-Skillet Simplicity: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
• Rich and Creamy: The garlic butter sauce and Parmesan cheese elevate the dish to comfort food heaven.
• Customizable: Add veggies or adjust the spices to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for All Occasions: Fancy enough for a dinner party, yet easy for weeknights.

Ingredients for Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:

Core Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Chicken tenderloins	1 lb (boneless, skinless)
Salt and pepper	To taste
Garlic powder	½ tsp
Olive oil	2 tbsp
Butter	1 stick (divided)
Minced garlic	2 tbsp
Red pepper flakes	¼ tsp (optional)
Dry white wine	½ cup
White rice (uncooked)	1 ½ cups
Chicken broth	3 cups
Parmesan cheese (grated)	½ cup

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season and Cook the Chicken

• Season the chicken: Sprinkle chicken tenderloins with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
• Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and cover to keep warm.

2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

• In the same skillet, melt half of the butter over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), and ½ tsp of salt. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant.
• Deglaze the pan: Increase the heat to medium-high and pour in the white wine. Stir vigorously, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
• Let the wine reduce by half (about 5 minutes) to concentrate the flavors. Set aside 2 tbsp of the sauce for drizzling later.

3. Toast the Rice

• Add the uncooked rice to the skillet with the remaining butter. Stir for 3–4 minutes, allowing the rice to toast lightly and absorb the flavors from the garlic butter.

4. Cook the Rice

• Pour in the chicken broth and add the remaining salt. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
• Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally during the first 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.

5. Assemble the Dish

• Once the rice is tender, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and stir gently until melted and creamy.
• Place the cooked chicken tenderloins back on top of the rice. Drizzle the reserved garlic butter sauce over the chicken and rice for extra flavor.

6. Rest and Serve

• Cover the skillet, remove it from heat, and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Why This Recipe Works

1. Balanced Flavors

The buttery richness of the garlic sauce, combined with the slight tang of white wine and the nutty Parmesan, creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

2. Versatile Cooking

One skillet means the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors from the chicken and sauce, making every bite cohesive and delicious.

3. Quick and Easy

With just 30–40 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights without compromising on quality.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approx.)
Calories	480
Protein	30g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fat	22g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	720mg

Tips for the Best Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

• Freshly grated Parmesan and minced garlic make a big difference in flavor.

2. Choose the Right Wine

• Use a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for the best balance of acidity and flavor.

3. Avoid Overcooking the Chicken

• Chicken tenderloins cook quickly. Remove them from the skillet as soon as they’re done to prevent dryness.

4. Add Vegetables

• Toss in spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.

Variations to Try

1. Shrimp Scampi Rice

• Swap the chicken for shrimp, cooking them just until pink before following the rest of the recipe.

2. Lemon Garlic Twist

• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the garlic butter sauce for a zesty kick.

3. Spicy Kick

• Double the red pepper flakes for a spicier version.

4. Whole-Grain Option

• Use brown rice instead of white rice for a heartier, fiber-rich meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the creamy rice.
• Garlic Bread: Use warm garlic bread to scoop up every bit of the flavorful sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted asparagus or broccoli for a balanced meal.

FAQ: Your Questions About Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Answered

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish and reheat it in the oven or microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth to refresh the rice.

2. What if I don’t have white wine?

You can substitute white wine with chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice for acidity.

3. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Absolutely! Slice chicken breasts into smaller pieces for quicker cooking.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, freeze the cooked dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

6. What other cheeses can I use?

Asiago, Romano, or a blend of Italian cheeses work wonderfully in place of Parmesan.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in the comfort of your kitchen. Its creamy, buttery richness and tender chicken make it an irresistible choice for both casual meals and special occasions.

Are you ready to try this mouthwatering recipe? Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and impress your family or guests with this delightful dish. Don’t forget to share your creation and inspire others to enjoy the magic of this one-skillet masterpiece!

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