Get ready to fall in love with the Indulgent Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe, a truly mouthwatering dish that combines tender, perfectly seasoned chicken with a rich, velvety rice infused with garlic, Parmesan, and just the right touch of cream. This recipe is like a warm hug on a plate, bringing together simple ingredients in a way that feels utterly luxurious. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this meal will satisfy cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are thoughtfully chosen for their simplicity and how wonderfully they blend to create layers of flavor and comfort. Each component plays a vital role, from the juicy chicken breast that soaks up the seasonings to the creamy Parmesan rice that steals the show with its luscious texture.
- 1.5 pounds Chicken Breast or Tenderloins: The star protein, juicy and tender, but feel free to use turkey or tofu as alternatives for variation.
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil: Adds a subtle fruity note and helps in perfectly searing the chicken; vegetable oil works well too.
- 2 tablespoons Butter: For depth and richness; substitute with extra olive oil if wanting a dairy-free option.
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that brings classic flavor—dried basil and oregano are great swaps.
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt: Essential for seasoning, adjust to your taste to balance flavors.
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds a mild heat and complexity; white pepper is a nice alternative.
- 4 cloves Garlic (Minced): This fragrant powerhouse elevates every bite with its aromatic punch.
- 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice: The creamy base of the dish; jasmine or basmati rice can add a different aroma and texture.
- 2 cups Chicken Broth: Ensures the rice cooks tenderly while adding savory depth; vegetable broth can be swapped in for vegan preferences.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: The ingredient that transforms the rice to creamy decadence; half-and-half or coconut cream lighten it up.
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: The cheesy, nutty magic that ties the dish together; nutritional yeast is a perfect vegan twist.
- 0.25 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For adding a gentle kick of heat, adjust according to your comfort.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Chopped): Adds a bright, fresh finish that balances the richness beautifully.
How to Make Indulgent Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken dry to ensure a perfect sear that locks in juices. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to give it that classic scampi flavor. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Sear for 6 to 7 minutes until each side is beautifully golden brown and smells irresistible.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Deglaze the Pan
Lower the heat to medium-low after removing the chicken temporarily. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté gently for about a minute so it releases all its aromatic goodness. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pan as you go—those browned bits carry intense flavor that will beautifully infuse the dish.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Add the rice directly to the skillet, stirring often to coat each grain in the garlicky butter mixture. Toasting the rice for 1 to 2 minutes until it just begins to turn translucent builds a nutty flavor foundation that will come through in every bite.
Step 4: Simmer the Rice in Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir to deglaze the pan fully. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the rice simmer gently for about 15 minutes, or until it’s tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, setting the stage for the creamy finish.
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Parmesan
Reduce the heat to low and slowly incorporate the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted perfectly, creating a rich, creamy sauce that envelops the rice luxuriously. This step is where the dish truly earns its indulgent title.
Step 6: Reintroduce the Chicken and Garnish
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the creamy rice. Warm through gently for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld. Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes on top for a burst of color and that subtle spicy kick. Serve while piping hot!
How to Serve Indulgent Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A final flourish of fresh parsley adds a lovely burst of color and freshness that cuts through the creamy richness perfectly. If you like a little heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes provides a lively contrast, enhancing every bite.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green vegetables like steamed asparagus or sautéed spinach, balancing the creaminess with their bright, earthy flavors. A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can add refreshing crunch and acid, making the meal feel complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the chicken atop the creamy rice in shallow bowls and garnish with parsley and a lemon wedge on the side for a zesty pop. Alternatively, try individual ramekins or cast-iron skillets for a rustic yet elegant touch that’s perfect for dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Indulgent Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making it ideal for quick reheats that don’t compromise much on taste or texture.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to save some for later. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Just be sure to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain the rice’s creaminess and prevent the chicken from drying out.
Reheating
For best results, gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if it seems thickened to restore its signature creamy texture. Microwave reheating works too—just cover to retain moisture and heat in short bursts.
FAQs
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile—you can swap chicken breast for turkey or tofu depending on your preferences. Adjust cooking times accordingly, but the creamy garlic Parmesan rice base remains the star.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use extra olive oil instead of butter, and swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based half-and-half. Nutritional yeast is a fantastic substitute for Parmesan cheese to keep that umami flavor.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely. The optional red pepper flakes provide a subtle heat, but feel free to increase the amount or add other spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder for a bolder kick tailored to your taste.
What type of rice works best for this recipe?
Long-grain white rice is preferred because it cooks up fluffy and retains a pleasant texture when cooked creamy. Jasmine or basmati rice can also work wonderfully, adding their own fragrant notes to the dish.
How do I know when the rice is perfectly cooked?
The rice should be tender but not mushy and have absorbed most of the broth liquid. Cover and let it simmer patiently; it should be ready in about 15 minutes. Taste-testing towards the end is the best way to ensure it’s just right.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Indulgent Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe that makes it a go-to for delivering comfort and elegance all on one plate. Its rich, creamy texture combined with savory, garlicky chicken creates a dish that feels both luxurious and homey at the same time. I can’t recommend trying this enough—you’re going to love every bite and may just find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Indulgent Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Indulgent Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is a comforting and flavorful one-skillet dish that combines tender seared chicken with rich garlic parmesan creamy rice. Perfect for a satisfying meal in about 40 minutes, this recipe balances creamy textures with aromatic herbs and a slight spicy kick from optional red pepper flakes.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1.5 pounds Chicken Breast or Tenderloins (Turkey or tofu can be used as alternatives)
Fats & Oils
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Can substitute with vegetable oil)
- 2 tablespoons Butter (Use extra olive oil for dairy-free option)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (Replace with dried basil and oregano if preferred)
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Adjust according to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (White pepper can be a substitute)
- 4 cloves Garlic (Minced)
- 0.25 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional, adjust based on spice preference)
Grains
- 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice (Jasmine or basmati rice can work too)
Liquids & Dairy
- 2 cups Chicken Broth (Vegetable broth is a great alternative)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (Substitute with half-and-half or coconut cream for lighter option)
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Nutritional yeast works as a vegan alternative)
Herbs & Garnish
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Chopped for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season evenly with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to build a flavorful base.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Reduce heat to medium, add the minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Use a spatula to scrape the browned bits off the bottom of the pan, incorporating flavor into the dish.
- Toast Rice: Add the long-grain white rice to the skillet. Stir to coat the rice in the oils and garlic mixture, toasting it for 1-2 minutes until the rice appears slightly translucent.
- Cook Rice: Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let the rice simmer gently for about 15 minutes until tender and fully cooked.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the mixture becomes creamy, enriching the rice with a velvety texture.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the creamy rice. Warm through for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes. Serve hot for a deliciously indulgent meal.
Notes
- Turkey or tofu can be used as alternative proteins for a different but equally delicious version.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with extra olive oil and heavy cream with coconut cream or a similar plant-based alternative.
- Vegetable broth can be substituted for chicken broth to make the recipe vegetarian-friendly.
- Adjust salt and pepper to your taste preferences.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted or adjusted based on desired spice level.
- Using jasmine or basmati rice adds aromatic depth to the dish if preferred over long-grain white rice.
