Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

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If you’re looking for a dinner that’s equal parts easy and indulgent, this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is your answer! Tender chicken strips are seared to golden perfection, then tossed in a luscious garlic butter sauce with a kick of red pepper flakes. Paired with creamy, cheesy jasmine rice, it’s a match made in heaven. I love how fast it comes together—25 minutes from start to finish—making it perfect for busy nights when you still want something special. Let’s whip up this garlicky, comforting delight!

Ingredients

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

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips – Juicy and quick-cooking.
  • 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper – A classic warm kick.
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Savory depth for the chicken.
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder – A subtle sweet note.
  • ½ teaspoon paprika – Adds color and a mild smokiness.
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil – For searing and sautéing.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced – The star of the scampi show.
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – A gentle heat boost.
  • ½ cup chicken broth – Builds the sauce base.
  • ½ cup heavy cream – Creamy richness that ties it together.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Nutty, cheesy goodness.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – A fresh, bright finish.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice – A zesty pop to balance the richness.
  • 2 cups cooked jasmine rice – Fragrant and fluffy, ready to soak up the sauce.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re set for a delicious meal!

Prep Time & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes – Quick slicing and seasoning.
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes – Fast cooking and simmering.
  • Total Time: 25 minutes – A speedy path to comfort food!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s make this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice in a flash—here’s how:

  1. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika until evenly coated.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant—watch it closely so it doesn’t burn!
  4. Build the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the skillet bottom.
  5. Make It Creamy: Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes velvety.
  6. Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy garlic sauce. Add the chopped parsley and lemon juice, stirring well to coat everything in flavor.
  7. Serve It Up: Spoon the chicken and sauce over warm jasmine rice. Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley if you’re feeling fancy, and serve hot!

Tips & Tricks

Make this dish even better with these simple pointers:

  • Chicken Cut: Slice the breasts thin for quick, even cooking—pound them lightly if they’re thick.
  • Spice It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for more heat.
  • Rice Prep: Cook the jasmine rice ahead of time to save a step—leftovers work great!
  • Cheese Swap: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different cheesy vibe.
  • Add Veggies: Toss in spinach or cherry tomatoes with the sauce for extra color and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

This scampi is a meal on its own, but these sides elevate it:

  • Garlic Bread: Crusty bread to mop up that creamy sauce.
  • Green Salad: A simple salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut the richness.
  • Sautéed Zucchini: Light, garlicky veggies to complement the flavors.
  • White Wine: A crisp Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly with the garlic and cream.

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to enjoy leftovers (if you’ve got any!):

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes. Or microwave in 30-second bursts until hot.
  • Freezing: Not ideal—the cream sauce may separate. If you must, freeze for up to 1 month, thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat gently.

Nutrition Info

This dish is indulgent yet balanced! Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings, with rice):

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Protein: 28g – From the chicken and cheese.
  • Fat: 26g (Saturated Fat: 12g) – From the cream, cheese, and oil.
  • Carbohydrates: 20g – Mostly from the rice.
  • Fiber: 1g – A little from the rice.
  • Sugar: 2g – Naturally occurring in the broth and cream.
  • Sodium: 900mg – Varies with broth and salt; adjust to taste.

Note: Values are estimates and depend on specific brands or portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a quick, creamy dream of a dish—garlicky, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a restaurant treat but comes together with pantry staples in no time. Perfect for a cozy night in or when you want to impress without the stress, it’s a winner every time. Give it a whirl, and let me know how it turns out—or if you add your own twist! Happy cooking!

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