Name: Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 3 cups chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; ¼ cup dry white wine; ½ cup heavy cream; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Hey y'all! Craving a comforting yet flavor-packed dinner that'll impress the family or wow your guests? This Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is the perfect blend of zesty, buttery chicken and velvety rice loaded with garlic, Parmesan, and a hint of lemon. It’s a total crowd-pleaser that tastes like you fussed for hours—when it’s really weeknight easy. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Ready in about 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners.
Combines juicy, pan-seared chicken with a rich, creamy Parmesan rice.
Simple, accessible ingredients you can find anywhere.
Customizable—add veggies, swap proteins, or adjust the spice to your taste.
Great for leftovers and meal prep.

Ingredients for Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

1 ¼ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoon unsalted butter, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
½ cup chicken broth
¼ cup dry white wine (or more broth)
2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 cup long grain white rice
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Lemon slices, for serving (optional)

How to Make Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture until evenly coated.

Step 2: Pan-Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer (cook in batches if needed), searing for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove to a plate and cover loosely.

Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce

In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon butter. Add the garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in ½ cup broth, white wine, and lemon juice. Simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits. Return chicken to pan; reduce heat and keep warm.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

While the chicken cooks, melt remaining tablespoon butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic (1 clove), sautéing for 30 seconds. Add rice and toast for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden. Pour in 2 cups broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan. Continue to cook uncovered for 2-3 minutes until creamy. Adjust salt as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Spoon creamy Parmesan rice onto plates. Top with chicken scampi and generous spoonfuls of pan sauce. Garnish with parsley and lemon slices. Serve hot!

Notes for the Best Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, meltiest texture in your rice (see why here).
Don’t skip toasting the rice—it adds a subtle nuttiness and prevents mushiness.
For even juicier chicken, use thighs or pound chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking.

3 Delicious Variations for Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Shrimp Scampi Style: Swap chicken for peeled shrimp and cook just 1-2 minutes per side.
Veggie-Loaded Scampi: Add sautéed bell peppers or baby spinach to the pan for color and nutrition.
Low-Carb Option: Sub cauliflower rice for the cooked white rice and adjust cream/cheese to preference.

Equipment Needed for Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Large skillet
Medium saucepan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Tongs or spatula
Measuring cups & spoons

Storing Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the rice.
This dish isn’t ideal for freezing due to the creamy sauce texture.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings for Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in homemade vinaigrette and steamed broccoli.
Try a glass of Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing accompaniment.
Serve with garlic bread to soak up every drop of the luscious scampi sauce.

Pro Tips for Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Pat chicken dry before dredging to help it sear rather than steam (here's why).
Deglaze the pan well to incorporate all the flavorful browned bits (fond) into your sauce.
Let the Parmesan rice rest covered for 5 minutes to finish thickening and achieve the creamiest texture.

FAQ: Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?: Yes, add at the end just to warm through—avoid overcooking so it stays juicy!
What’s the best substitute for heavy cream?: Half-and-half or whole milk work, though sauce won’t be quite as rich; add more Parmesan for flavor.
Is this dish spicy?: It has a mild kick from red pepper flakes—just omit or reduce for a milder version safe for kids.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice