Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

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This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary weeknight into something special. With juicy, pan-seared chicken bathed in a buttery garlic-lemon sauce and served over a bed of creamy, savory rice loaded with Parmesan, it’s pure comfort with a zing of freshness.

It’s a quick, skillet-style dinner that feels elevated yet unfussy—perfect for impressing without the stress. Whether you’re cooking for family or just indulging yourself, every bite bursts with rich, bold flavor.

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What Makes This Scampi Special?

Unlike traditional shrimp scampi, this version leans on juicy chicken breasts for a heartier main. But the scampi sauce keeps all its classic zing—garlic, butter, lemon, parsley, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. When poured over cheesy, garlicky rice instead of pasta, it becomes the kind of comfort food you crave again and again.

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Ingredients for the Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless, and sliced or pounded thin for quick, even cooking.
• Garlic – Minced and sautéed in butter for deep flavor.
• Butter – The base of the scampi sauce that delivers richness.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the sauce with acidity.
• Chicken Broth – Adds depth and keeps the sauce from being too heavy.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, but great for a subtle kick.
• Fresh Parsley – Adds color and a herbal finish.
• Long Grain White Rice – Acts as a buttery, cheesy bed for the chicken and sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese – Gives the rice a creamy, salty richness.
• Olive Oil – For searing the chicken to golden perfection.
• Salt & Black Pepper – To season both the chicken and the rice perfectly.

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How To Make the Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Cook the Garlic Parmesan Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of long grain white rice with 2 cups of chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for about 15 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cover and keep warm.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in 1/2 cup chicken broth, juice of half a lemon, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Finish the Chicken in the Sauce

Return the seared chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over each piece. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes so the chicken soaks up all that garlicky lemon butter goodness.

Step 5: Plate and Garnish

Scoop a generous helping of garlic Parmesan rice onto plates. Top with chicken and spoon over the remaining scampi sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a bit more grated Parmesan if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove when the sauce is buttery and warm and the rice is fluffy and cheesy. Serve it family-style on a large platter or plate each dish individually with a generous spoonful of sauce over the rice.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.

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What to Serve With Chicken Scampi and Garlic Parmesan Rice?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy and golden, perfect for mopping up the scampi sauce.

Roasted Broccolini

The bitterness of broccolini balances the richness of the butter sauce.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad adds a cool and creamy contrast.

Lemon Roasted Asparagus

Light and bright, this veggie side amplifies the lemon notes in the scampi.

White Wine (Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc)

Perfect pairing for garlic and lemon-forward dishes.

Grilled Zucchini

Adds charred flavor and a pop of green to the plate.

Parmesan Green Beans

A cheesy green side that plays off the rice’s flavor profile.

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Want More Garlic Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this scampi-inspired dish hit the spot, here are a few more garlicky favorites to check out:

• Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with Creamy Spinach
• Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Skillet
• Lemon Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• One-Pan Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken
• Crispy Garlic Chicken Cutlets

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