Description
This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe features tender, perfectly seared chicken breasts simmered in a flavorful garlic lemon butter sauce, paired with creamy garlic parmesan rice. It’s a delicious and elegant meal that combines bright, zesty flavors with comforting cheesy rice, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Scampi
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 7 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season evenly on both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This seasoning enhances flavor and prepares the chicken for searing.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Make Scampi Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low and melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze and loosen browned bits.
- Simmer Sauce & Coat Chicken: Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly reduced and flavorful. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat. Stir in lemon zest, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes if using for a touch of heat.
- Prepare Garlic Parmesan Rice: Meanwhile, in a separate saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the white rice and toast it by stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes.
- Cook Rice: Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Finish Rice: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, mixing well to create a creamy and flavorful rice side dish.
- Serve: Plate the chicken breasts topped with the garlic lemon butter sauce alongside a generous serving of garlic parmesan rice. Garnish with additional parsley if desired and enjoy your meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless thighs if preferred, adjusting cooking time as needed.
- For a spicier sauce, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for best flavor and melting quality in the rice.
- Make sure to toast the rice before cooking for a nuttier taste and better texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
