Buttery Garlic Chicken Scampi with Creamy Parmesan Rice

Introduction

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a plate of Buttery Garlic Chicken Scampi paired with creamy Parmesan rice. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken strips sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce and served over a bed of cheesy, creamy rice that soaks up every bit of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser.

The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a deep, savory taste, while a hint of lemon adds a fresh brightness that balances the richness. It’s a dish that feels luxurious yet is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

My recipe story

I first created this recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted something warm and comforting but also quick to prepare. I had a few chicken breasts in the fridge and a block of Parmesan cheese, and I thought, why not turn it into a rich, garlic-forward dish? The result was an absolute hit—creamy, buttery, and packed with flavor. Ever since, it has become a staple in my household and a go-to recipe when I need a meal that impresses without hours in the kitchen.

Over time, I’ve experimented with different variations, sometimes adding herbs like thyme or parsley for extra depth, or finishing the dish with a splash of white wine to elevate the flavor. Each tweak has made this recipe even more indulgent and versatile, perfect for adapting to your taste preferences.

Ingredient breakdown

The heart of this dish is the chicken scampi. Using boneless, skinless chicken breast ensures that each bite is tender and juicy. Olive oil and butter are essential here—they create a rich base for sautéing the chicken while giving the sauce a luscious texture. Garlic is, of course, the star, providing aromatic depth and that unmistakable savory punch.

For the creamy Parmesan rice, you’ll need long-grain rice, chicken broth, and heavy cream. These ingredients combine to make rice that is soft, rich, and flavorful. Parmesan cheese is stirred in at the end, melting into a velvety, cheesy consistency that complements the buttery garlic chicken perfectly. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the dish, balancing the richness and elevating the flavors.

Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme are optional but recommended, adding a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning, bringing all the flavors together. The beauty of this recipe is that it relies on simple, everyday ingredients, yet delivers a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.

Equipment you’ll need

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Medium saucepan for the rice
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Grater for Parmesan cheese
• Mixing bowl

Step-by-step directions

1. Prepare the chicken: Slice 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips. Season lightly with salt and black pepper. This will ensure even cooking and allow the flavors of the garlic butter to shine.
2. Sauté the chicken: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the chicken strips and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 30–45 seconds until fragrant. Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, then return the chicken to the pan, coating it well in the sauce.
4. Prepare the creamy Parmesan rice: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of long-grain rice with 2 cups of chicken broth and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Add Parmesan and finish the rice: Remove the rice from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The cheese will melt, creating a smooth, creamy texture.
6. Combine and serve: Plate the creamy Parmesan rice and top with the garlic butter chicken. Spoon extra sauce over the top and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme. Serve immediately for best results.

Variations & substitutions

You can make this recipe your own by adding or swapping ingredients. For example, shrimp can replace chicken for a seafood twist. You can also incorporate vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrients. Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, and experiment with different cheeses such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a slightly different flavor profile.

For a low-carb alternative, serve the garlic butter chicken over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice. If you like heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick to the sauce without overpowering the dish.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and rice in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to maintain creaminess. While not ideal for long-term freezing due to the creamy rice, the chicken and rice can be frozen separately for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently for best texture.

You can also make components ahead of time. Cook the rice and chicken separately, then assemble just before serving. This is perfect for meal prep or for preparing a quick weeknight dinner.

Serving ideas & pairings

Serve this garlic chicken scampi with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the garlic butter flavors. For a heartier meal, add roasted potatoes or garlic bread to soak up the sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs and a wedge of lemon to brighten the dish before serving.

FAQ

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and provide a slightly juicier and richer flavor.
2. Can I make this dish gluten-free? Absolutely. Ensure the chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are gluten-free. Most long-grain rice is naturally gluten-free.
3. How do I prevent the garlic from burning? Sauté garlic over medium heat for just 30–45 seconds until fragrant. Burning garlic will turn it bitter.
4. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can cook the chicken and rice separately and assemble just before serving to maintain the best texture.
5. Can I add vegetables? Definitely. Asparagus, spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes are excellent additions and can be cooked in the same pan or steamed separately.
6. How do I reheat leftovers without drying out the chicken? Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a little broth or cream to maintain moisture.
7. Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan? While possible, freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides superior flavor.

Final thoughts

Buttery Garlic Chicken Scampi with Creamy Parmesan Rice is a recipe that combines comfort, elegance, and simplicity all on one plate. It’s versatile enough to adapt to your preferences, whether that’s adding vegetables, swapping proteins, or adjusting seasonings. The dish demonstrates that with a few high-quality ingredients and a bit of love, you can create a meal that rivals restaurant-quality flavors at home.

Buttery Garlic Chicken Scampi with Creamy Parmesan Rice

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Tender chicken strips sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, served over creamy, cheesy Parmesan rice. A comforting and flavorful meal.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced into strips

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 cup long-grain rice

• 2 cups chicken broth (for rice)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Slice the chicken breast into strips and season with salt and black pepper.

2. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Sauté minced garlic in the same skillet for 30–45 seconds. Add 1/2 cup chicken broth and lemon juice, simmer 2–3 minutes. Return chicken to the pan and coat with sauce.

4. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup rice, 2 cups chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15–18 minutes until tender.

5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Serve the chicken over the creamy Parmesan rice, spoon sauce on top, and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the sauce or include vegetables like spinach or asparagus. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American