Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish delivers restaurant-style quality with minimal effort. The chicken is tender and full of garlicky, herby flavor, while the rice is ultra-creamy with a savory Parmesan kick. Together, they create a meal that’s hearty, elegant, and packed with comforting textures and bold flavor. Plus, it uses everyday ingredients and comes together in under an hour.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Scampi

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Garlic powder

• Paprika

• Olive oil

• Butter

• Garlic, minced

• Red pepper flakes (optional)

• Lemon juice

• Chicken broth or dry white wine

• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Long-grain white rice

• Butter or olive oil

• Garlic, minced

• Chicken broth

• Milk or half-and-half

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Optional: chopped parsley or fresh herbs for garnish

Directions

Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter or heat oil over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Stir in the rice and toast for 1–2 minutes.

4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

5. Stir in milk or half-and-half and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.

Make the Chicken Scampi:

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides.

2. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Add chicken and sear 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed, then sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 1 minute.

5. Deglaze the pan with lemon juice and chicken broth (or wine), scraping up any browned bits. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes.

6. Return chicken to the pan and spoon sauce over the top. Cook for 1–2 more minutes.

7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over the creamy garlic Parmesan rice.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Swap chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.

• Add sautéed spinach or peas to the rice for more veggies.

• Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

• Add a splash of cream to the scampi sauce for a richer finish.

• Top with extra shredded Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
Microwave reheating works too—use short intervals and stir between to avoid drying out the rice.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked rice for the creamy garlic rice?

Yes, use pre-cooked rice and stir it into the garlic, broth, and milk mixture to warm and flavor it.

What’s the best cut of chicken for this recipe?

Boneless chicken breasts or thighs work well. Thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes. Cook the rice and chicken in advance, then reheat gently and serve with fresh herbs or lemon.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s mildly spicy if you use red pepper flakes. Adjust or omit them based on your spice preference.

Can I use water instead of broth?

You can, but broth adds much more flavor. If using water, increase seasoning to compensate.

What wine is best for the scampi sauce?

A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works great.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely. Try broccoli, asparagus, or baby spinach stirred into the rice or sautéed with the chicken.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the broth and cheese you use are certified gluten-free.

Can I freeze Chicken Scampi with rice?

It’s best eaten fresh, but you can freeze it. Reheat slowly with added broth or milk to bring back the texture.

What can I serve with this dish?

A simple side salad or steamed green vegetables pair beautifully for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy nights or casual entertaining. The zesty garlic-lemon chicken paired with the indulgent, cheesy rice creates a winning combination that’s sure to become a family favorite. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.