Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe

If you’re ready to awaken your weeknight dinner routine, Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is here to steal the show! This dish brings together juicy, golden brown chicken tenderloins, the brightness of white wine and garlic, and fluffy rice, all brought into perfect harmony with a generous dusting of parmesan cheese. Everything comes together in one pan, producing subtly layered flavors and a cozy aroma that will have everyone gathering around the table. It’s fantastic for company, simple enough for a quick family meal, and utterly irresistible for anyone who loves comfort food with a little gourmet flair.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice so special? Every ingredient is simple, easy to find, yet undeniably essential. Each one adds a little spark: flavor, texture, creaminess, or a gorgeous pop of color. Here’s what you’ll need and why each is important:

• Chicken tenderloins: Quick to cook and always tender, these are perfect for juicy bites throughout the dish.
• Salt and pepper: The foundation of balanced flavor, so don’t skip accurate seasoning.
• Garlic powder: Adds a base layer of savory warmth before fresh garlic takes over the spotlight.
• Olive oil: Creates golden, crisp edges on the chicken and carries all the delicious aromas.
• Butter (divided): Lends a velvety richness to both the sauce and the rice, making everything taste restaurant-worthy.
• Minced garlic: The star scent and flavor; freshly minced is best for big garlic punch.
• Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch adds excitement and depth without overwhelming heat.
• Salt (divided): Season in layers for maximum flavor development in every bite.
• Dry white wine: Adds brightness and acidity that keep the entire dish tasting fresh and vibrant.
• White rice (uncooked): Simple, fluffy, and perfect for soaking up all of those savory flavors.
• Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with savory, comforting depth—so much more flavor than plain water.
• Fresh grated parmesan cheese: The finishing touch, offering salty, creamy richness that ties everything together.

How to Make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Sear and Season the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken tenderloins dry. Give them a generous sprinkle of salt, pepper, and garlic powder on all sides. Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, and cook the chicken until each tender is golden and just cooked through, about 3–4 minutes per side. Once finished, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it to keep warm—this keeps the meat juicy for later.

Step 2: Build the Aromatic Base

In the same skillet (don’t wipe it clean—you want those tasty bits!), melt half of the butter. Toss in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir and sauté gently for about 3 minutes, making sure your garlic stays fragrant and soft, but doesn’t turn brown or burn.

Step 3: Deglaze and Reduce the Sauce

Raise the heat to medium-high and pour in your dry white wine. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty pieces from the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture bubble and reduce by half, stirring occasionally—this should take about 5 minutes. When it looks glossy and slightly syrupy, spoon out 2 tablespoons of the pan sauce and set it aside for later.

Step 4: Toast the Rice

Add the uncooked white rice to the pan, stirring to coat every grain with that garlicky, buttery goodness. Cook for 3–4 minutes, letting the rice get just a hint of color and nutty aroma. This step builds amazing depth into the final Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice.

Step 5: Simmer to Fluffy Perfection

Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the remaining teaspoon of salt. Bring everything to a low boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Let the rice cook gently for 20 minutes, lifting the lid to stir once or twice during the first 15 minutes—no more, to keep the rice fluffy and light. The aroma at this stage is simply irresistible!

Step 6: Add Parmesan and Chicken, Then Rest

Once your rice is soft and the liquid absorbed, scatter half the parmesan over the top of the rice. Arrange the chicken tenders on top, and drizzle them with the reserved pan sauce. Top with the rest of your parmesan, cover again, and let everything rest off the heat for 5 minutes. This finishing touch melts the cheese, soaks up all the flavors, and ensures each bite of Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is as luscious as possible.

How to Serve Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Garnishes

Finish your platter with a final flurry of freshly grated parmesan and a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. The cheese adds even more savory depth, while parsley brings a pop of color and just the right amount of freshness to cut through the richness.

Side Dishes

While Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a satisfying one-pan meal, it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette, or a batch of roasted asparagus. Don’t forget a hunk of warm crusty bread—perfect for mopping up any extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For something a little fancy, serve the chicken sliced over the rice and drizzle with extra reserved sauce. You can also spoon the rice into individual bowls and lean a couple of chicken tenders against the rim, then top each with parmesan and a tiny lemon wedge for a fresh look. If you’re entertaining, a big family-style serving dish set in the center feels cozy and inviting!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container. The combination keeps well in the fridge for up to three days—great for meal preppers or anyone who loves getting ahead on weeknight dinners!

Freezing

To freeze, portion the cooled Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice into freezer-safe containers. It will keep its best taste and texture for about one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge to avoid mushy rice.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of extra chicken broth or water to loosen the rice and keep everything moist. Stir as you heat so the cheese melts evenly, and your Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice feels just as fresh as day one.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts or thighs instead of tenderloins?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be sliced into strips, or you can use boneless, skinless thighs. Adjust your cooking time to suit the cut you choose; just make sure the chicken is cooked through but still tender.

Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for the wine?

Yes, substitute an equal amount of extra chicken broth plus a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. You’ll lose a bit of that signature scampi tang, but you’ll still enjoy a delicious sauce filled with garlic and savory goodness.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Brown rice can be used, but it will need a longer cooking time and possibly more liquid—check your rice package instructions and adjust as needed. The nutty flavor pairs well with the garlic and parmesan, turning Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice into a slightly heartier dish.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh garlic?

While fresh garlic gives the best aroma and flavor, you can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder per tablespoon of minced garlic in this recipe. Just use it in the butter stage, and your sauce will still be packed with garlicky charm.

Is it possible to make Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice dairy-free?

Yes, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast in place of the regular cheese. The results are still deliciously rich and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meal that feels luxurious but is easy enough for any night, Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is your answer. The combination of garlicky, buttery sauce, tender chicken, and creamy parmesan rice is simply irresistible. I hope you give this recipe a try and fall in love with it as much as I have!

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