You know those nights when you need something quick, comforting, and packed with flavor? That’s exactly why my chicken scampi with creamy garlic parmesan rice became my go-to weeknight hero. I stumbled upon this combo years ago when I was desperate to whip up something impressive with pantry staples – and wow, did it deliver! The tender chicken mingles with that ridiculously creamy garlic-parmesan rice in a way that feels fancy but comes together in under 30 minutes. What I love most is how the garlic infuses every bite, while the parmesan adds that perfect salty richness. It’s become my little kitchen secret – the dish I make when I want comfort food without the fuss.
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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
This dish is my weeknight lifesaver, and here’s why it’ll be yours too:
- Quick magic: Ready in 30 minutes flat – faster than takeout!
- Creamy dreaminess: That garlic-parmesan rice is so luxurious, you won’t believe it’s homemade
- Family-approved: Even my picky nephew licks his plate clean
- One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy that second helping
- Restaurant vibes: Tastes like you fussed all day (our little secret!)
Ingredients for Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this dreamy dish – I promise it’s all simple stuff you might already have! The magic is in how we combine them:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb) – slice them into bite-sized pieces so they cook quickly and soak up all that garlicky goodness
- 1 cup uncooked white rice – regular long-grain works perfectly, no fancy rice needed
- 2 cups chicken broth – the secret flavor booster for our rice
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – makes that sauce luxuriously creamy
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese – and I mean freshly grated, the powdery stuff just won’t melt right
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – measure with your heart here, I usually add an extra clove
- 2 tbsp butter – because everything’s better with butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil – for that perfect golden sear on the chicken
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – my little flavor shortcut
- Salt and pepper – just to taste, you’re the boss here
- Fresh parsley – for that pretty green pop at the end
Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice Bliss
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A quick and flavorful dish combining tender chicken with creamy garlic parmesan rice.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add rice, Italian seasoning, and stir to coat.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese.
- Return chicken to the skillet and heat through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor.
- Adjust creaminess by adding more broth if needed.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a side salad.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
How to Make Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
Here’s my foolproof method for creating this dreamy dish – it’s easier than you think! Just follow these simple steps and you’ll have restaurant-worthy chicken scampi with creamy garlic parmesan rice faster than you can say “seconds please!”
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First things first – grab those chicken breasts and slice them into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes work great). Season them generously with salt and pepper – don’t be shy! Heat olive oil in your largest skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, then add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until you get those gorgeous golden-brown edges. Trust your nose – when it smells amazing, it’s ready!
Step 2: Cook the Rice
Remove the chicken (don’t wash that pan!) and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and stir constantly for about 30 seconds – just until fragrant but not browned. Toss in the rice and Italian seasoning, giving everything a good stir to coat those grains in all the flavorful goodness. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a lively simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low. Set your timer for 15 minutes – this is when the magic happens!
Step 3: Combine and Finish the Dish
Once the rice is tender and absorbed all that liquid, stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese until everything turns gloriously creamy. Return your cooked chicken to the party, stirring gently to combine. Let it all heat through for about 2 minutes while you chop some fresh parsley. Scoop into bowls and sprinkle with that vibrant green parsley – it adds freshness and makes it look fancy!
If you love creamy garlic chicken recipes, you’ll want to check out our Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini Recipe. It’s another fan favorite that combines juicy chicken with a velvety sauce, delivering that same irresistible balance of flavor and comfort.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
After making this dish countless times, I’ve picked up some tricks to make your chicken scampi with creamy garlic parmesan rice absolutely foolproof:
- Fresh is best: That pre-grated parmesan in the green can? Skip it! Freshly grated melts into dreamy creaminess.
- Rice check: Peek at the 15-minute mark – if it’s still crunchy, add a splash more broth and cook 2 extra minutes.
- Cream control: Want it extra saucy? Stir in an extra 1/4 cup broth when adding the cream.
- Garlic lover’s trick: Double the garlic if you’re feeling bold (I always do!).
- Rest time: Let it sit 5 minutes off heat – the sauce thickens perfectly.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
This dish shines all on its own, but here’s how I love to round out the meal: a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus make great veggie sides too – anything that lets that creamy garlic parmesan rice stay the star!
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store your chicken scampi with creamy garlic parmesan rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I prefer the stovetop – just add a splash of broth to keep it creamy and warm gently over medium heat. The microwave works too – cover and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Either way, it’ll taste just as good as the first time!
Nutritional Information for Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
While I’d love to give you exact numbers, the truth is nutrition can vary based on your specific ingredients and brands. A general estimate? One serving of this chicken scampi with creamy garlic parmesan rice has about 420 calories, with good protein from the chicken and that comforting richness from the cream and parmesan. Remember – portion sizes, cheese measurements, and even your chicken’s size can change things. For precise counts, I’d recommend using your favorite nutrition calculator with the exact brands you buy!
For more comforting, creamy dinner ideas and easy chicken inspirations, follow us on Pinterest at SconesRecipe. You’ll find endless cozy meal ideas — from garlic-infused pasta dishes to cheesy one-pan favorites your whole family will crave.
Frequently Asked Questions
I get asked about my chicken scampi with creamy garlic parmesan rice all the time – here are the answers to the most common questions from fellow home cooks:
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
You can, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time! Brown rice needs about 40 minutes and extra liquid – I’d use 2 1/4 cups broth. The texture will be chewier, but still delicious. Just be sure to keep that lid on tight!
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
In a pinch, half-and-half works (though it won’t be quite as rich), or try evaporated milk for a lighter option. For dairy-free, coconut milk adds nice flavor – just know it’ll taste slightly tropical!
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Just thaw it completely first and pat it dry – otherwise, you’ll get soggy chicken instead of that gorgeous golden sear we want.
How spicy is this dish?
Not at all by default! The Italian seasoning just adds herbiness. Want some heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you sauté the garlic – my husband’s favorite trick!
Share Your Thoughts
I’d love to hear how your chicken scampi with creamy garlic parmesan rice turned out! Leave a comment, rate the recipe, or share your tips – your feedback makes my day!