Description: A flavorful and satisfying dish that combines succulent chicken scampi with creamy, garlic-infused Parmesan rice. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special, offering a delightful balance of zesty lemon, savory garlic, and rich Parmesan.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Scampi:
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips Salt and pepper, to taste 2 tablespoons olive oil 4 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup chicken broth Juice of 1 lemon 1/4 cup white wine (optional, but recommended for depth of flavor) 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
1 cup long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine rice also work well) 2 cups chicken broth 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving Salt and pepper, to taste Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Preparation: Step 1: Prepare the Chicken: Begin by thoroughly washing and drying the chicken breasts. Slice them into thin, uniform strips. This ensures even cooking and allows the chicken to absorb the flavorful scampi sauce. Season the chicken strips generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning, as it will significantly enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet (preferably non-stick), heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is shimmering before adding the chicken. This indicates the skillet is hot enough for the chicken to sear properly, developing a nice golden-brown crust. Add the seasoned chicken strips to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Overcrowding the pan will cause the chicken to steam instead of sear, so work in batches if necessary. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, covering it to keep it warm.
Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. The garlic should be a light golden color and release its aromatic oils. Next, pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and white wine (if using). The white wine adds a layer of complexity to the sauce, but it’s perfectly fine to omit it if you prefer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet with a spatula or wooden spoon. These browned bits, also known as fond, are packed with flavor and will enrich the sauce. Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. This will concentrate the flavors and thicken the sauce to a desirable consistency.
Step 4: Finish the Scampi: Stir in the unsalted butter until it is completely melted and well combined with the sauce. The butter adds richness and a velvety texture to the scampi sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it gently to coat it evenly in the sauce. Ensure that each piece of chicken is thoroughly covered with the luscious sauce. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the chicken just before serving. The parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note to the dish.
Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the long-grain white rice, chicken broth, and minced garlic. Ensure that the rice is evenly distributed in the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan tightly with a lid and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is completely absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during the simmering process, as this can disrupt the cooking process and result in unevenly cooked rice.
Step 6: Finish the Rice: Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for about 5 minutes. This allows the steam to redistribute and the rice grains to fully absorb any remaining moisture. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, using a fork to fluff the rice and incorporate the cheese evenly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your personal preference.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve: Divide the garlic Parmesan rice among individual plates or bowls. Top each serving with the chicken scampi, generously spooning some of the sauce over the chicken and rice. Garnish with additional chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this delectable combination of flavors and textures.
Why you will love this recipe This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
Flavor Explosion: The combination of the zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese creates a symphony of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds. Quick and Easy: This recipe is relatively quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Versatile: You can easily adapt this recipe to your preferences by adding vegetables, using different types of pasta or rice, or adjusting the amount of garlic and lemon. Comfort Food: The creamy, savory flavors of this dish evoke a sense of comfort and satisfaction. Elegant: Despite its simplicity, this dish is elegant enough to serve to guests.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans, for a complete and balanced meal. Pair with a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing. Crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious scampi sauce. A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors of the dish beautifully.
Tips:
Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Freshly squeezed lemon juice and freshly grated Parmesan cheese make a significant difference. Don’t overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough. Cook it just until it is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Adjust the amount of garlic and lemon to your personal preference. If you don’t have white wine on hand, you can substitute it with additional chicken broth or water. For a richer flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. If you want to make this dish even healthier, use brown rice instead of white rice. To make this dish ahead of time, prepare the chicken scampi and garlic Parmesan rice separately and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat them separately before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate values per serving)
Calories: 650 Protein: 45g Sodium: 800mg (Can vary greatly depending on broth and seasoning used)
Conclusion Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delightful and satisfying meal that is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its easy preparation, flavorful ingredients, and versatile nature, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Enjoy the symphony of flavors and textures that this dish offers, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations to suit your personal tastes.
5 Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use shrimp instead of chicken in this recipe? A: Absolutely! Shrimp scampi is a classic dish, and you can easily substitute shrimp for chicken in this recipe. Simply use 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp, and cook it in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Q2: I don’t have white wine. What can I use instead? A: If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute it with additional chicken broth or water. However, keep in mind that the white wine adds a layer of complexity to the sauce. You can also add a splash of white wine vinegar for a similar tang.
Q3: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free by ensuring that you use gluten-free chicken broth and gluten-free rice.
Q4: How can I make this dish spicier? A: If you want to add some heat to this dish, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the scampi sauce or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. You can also use chili garlic sauce for an extra kick.
Q5: Can I add vegetables to this recipe? A: Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to this recipe! Some good options include broccoli florets, asparagus spears, sliced bell peppers, or spinach. Add the vegetables to the skillet along with the garlic, and cook until they are tender-crisp.
