Chicken Scampi Creamy Garlic Rice

Introduction

When it comes to hearty yet elegant meals, Chicken Scampi Creamy Garlic Rice sits at the top of the list. This dish features tender chicken breast pieces seared to perfection, tossed in a luscious garlic cream sauce, and served over velvety rice infused with herbs and butter. The result is a one-pan meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting guests, this recipe delivers big flavors with minimal fuss.

My recipe story

This recipe was inspired by my love for Italian-American comfort food. Scampi dishes are usually known for their shrimp variations, but I wanted to create something equally rich while highlighting chicken as the star. One evening, after craving creamy garlic pasta but not wanting pasta, I decided to swap in rice. The result was beyond my expectations—a comforting, creamy chicken dish layered with garlic and herbs that has since become a family favorite. Over time, I refined the recipe to strike the perfect balance between creaminess and flavor depth, and now it’s one of the most requested meals in my kitchen.

Ingredient breakdown

The beauty of Chicken Scampi Creamy Garlic Rice is that it relies on simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. Each one plays a key role in building the dish’s depth of flavor.

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the perfect choice for this recipe. Cut into bite-sized pieces, they cook quickly while staying tender and juicy. If you prefer dark meat, boneless chicken thighs are also an excellent option for a richer flavor.

Olive oil and butter: The combination of olive oil and butter ensures the chicken sears beautifully while creating a base of richness for the garlic cream sauce. Butter adds creaminess while olive oil prevents it from burning during high-heat cooking.

Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are a must. They bring the classic scampi flavor to life, infusing the dish with an irresistible aroma and savory depth.

Italian seasoning and herbs: A blend of dried oregano, basil, and thyme provides that authentic Italian-inspired flair. Fresh parsley or basil added at the end gives a fresh, vibrant finish.

Rice: Long-grain rice is ideal, as it cooks up fluffy yet soaks in the creamy sauce beautifully. Jasmine or basmati rice can also be used if you prefer a more aromatic dish.

Cream and Parmesan: Heavy cream makes the rice luxuriously creamy, while Parmesan cheese adds saltiness and depth. These two create a sauce that clings to every grain of rice and piece of chicken.

Equipment you’ll need

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rice cooker or saucepan with lid
• Grater for Parmesan cheese

Step-by-step directions

Step 1: Prepare the rice
Start by cooking your rice in a rice cooker or saucepan. Use chicken broth instead of water if you’d like to boost the flavor. Once cooked, keep it warm and fluffy, as it will absorb the creamy garlic sauce later.

Step 2: Season and sear the chicken
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet, then sear the chicken until golden brown on all sides. This step locks in juices and builds a flavorful foundation.

Step 3: Sauté the garlic
In the same pan, add more butter if needed and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—golden and aromatic is what you’re after. This step is what makes the dish taste like classic scampi.

Step 4: Create the creamy sauce
Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer with the garlic, stirring gently. Add grated Parmesan and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and velvety. The cream and cheese will thicken naturally, creating the base for your garlic rice.

Step 5: Combine everything
Add the cooked rice to the pan with the creamy garlic sauce and stir well to coat every grain. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together until it’s fully incorporated and heated through.

Step 6: Finish and serve
Top with freshly chopped parsley and a final sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve immediately while hot, allowing the creaminess of the rice and juiciness of the chicken to shine.

Variations & substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, making it easy to tweak based on your preferences or what you have in your kitchen.

• Protein swap: Use shrimp, salmon, or even tofu in place of chicken for a different spin.
• Rice alternatives: Swap rice for orzo pasta, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
• Dairy-free version: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Extra veggies: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or chicken broth to bring back the creamy consistency before warming on the stovetop. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to avoid the sauce separating. You can also prepare the rice and chicken in advance, then combine with the sauce just before serving for a quicker weeknight meal.

Serving ideas & pairings

Chicken Scampi Creamy Garlic Rice is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with sides and drinks for a full dining experience:

• Serve with a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Pair with roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini.
• A crusty loaf of garlic bread makes an indulgent side.
• White wines such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complement the creamy, garlicky flavors.
• For a non-alcoholic pairing, try sparkling water with lemon or iced herbal tea.

FAQ

Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?
Yes! Leftover rice works perfectly. Simply add it to the creamy garlic sauce and let it warm through before mixing with chicken.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook the chicken and rice separately, then prepare the sauce when ready to serve. Combine everything just before serving for the freshest flavor.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half or evaporated milk can work, but for the creamiest results, stick with heavy cream.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free as long as your broth and seasonings don’t contain hidden gluten.

Can I add vegetables directly to the dish?
Definitely. Add spinach, peas, or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking to bulk it up with nutrients.

Final thoughts

Chicken Scampi Creamy Garlic Rice is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s a dish that brings the family together around the table while still being elegant enough for entertaining. With its versatile ingredients, customizable options, and foolproof cooking method, this recipe is bound to become one of your go-to favorites. Give it a try the next time you’re craving something indulgent yet easy to prepare, and enjoy every garlicky, creamy bite.

Chicken Scampi Creamy Garlic Rice

---

• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

 A rich and comforting dish of tender chicken and fluffy rice coated in a creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

---

Ingredients

• 450 g chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked
• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

---

Instructions

1. Cook the rice in chicken broth until fluffy, then set aside.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet, then sear chicken until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant.

4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir, then add Parmesan cheese until a smooth, creamy sauce forms.
5. Stir the cooked rice into the sauce until well coated. Return chicken to the skillet and toss everything together.

6. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving hot.

Notes

 For extra flavor, add spinach or mushrooms. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American