Description: A delectable and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken scampi in a bright, lemony garlic sauce served over creamy, flavorful garlic Parmesan rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Scampi:
- 5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips (approximately 1-inch thick and 3-4 inches long)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste (approximately 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for lightly coating the chicken)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing the chicken)
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided; 2 tablespoons for the scampi sauce, 1 tablespoon for the rice)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon; fresh is best for optimal flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or dry Vermouth) OR chicken broth (as a non-alcoholic alternative)
- Juice of 1 medium lemon (approximately 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish and fresh flavor; flat-leaf or curly parsley both work)
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing the garlic and toasting the rice)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for richness and flavor)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 teaspoon; fresh is best)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
- 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium is recommended to control the salt level)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is preferred for a better melt and flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste (approximately 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by patting the chicken strips dry with paper towels. This helps the flour adhere better and promotes browning during cooking. In a shallow dish, season the chicken strips generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Next, add the all-purpose flour to the same dish and toss the chicken strips to coat them lightly and evenly. Shake off any excess flour to avoid a gummy texture.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet (preferably a 12-inch skillet) over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once the oil is heated, carefully add the floured chicken strips to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the temperature and steam the chicken instead of browning it. If necessary, work in batches. Sauté the chicken for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, or until it is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate, covered with foil to keep it warm.
Step 3: Create the Scampi Sauce
In the same skillet (without cleaning it, to retain the flavorful browned bits from the chicken), melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to the melted butter. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Burnt garlic will impart a bitter taste to the sauce.
Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the dry white wine (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version) to deglaze the pan. Use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the skillet. These browned bits are packed with flavor and will enhance the richness of the sauce. Let the wine/broth simmer for approximately 3-4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and the alcohol (if using wine) to evaporate.
Step 5: Finish the Scampi
Stir in the fresh lemon juice into the sauce. Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet, ensuring they are well coated with the flavorful scampi sauce. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the chicken and sauce. Stir gently to combine.
Step 6: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice
While the chicken is resting, prepare the garlic Parmesan rice. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil and the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 7: Toast the Rice
Add the long-grain white rice to the saucepan and toast it for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Toasting the rice helps to enhance its flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy during cooking.
Step 8: Cook the Rice
Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly with a lid, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this will release steam and prolong the cooking time.
Step 9: Finish the Rice
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the steam to finish cooking the rice. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
COOKING Rating:
Easy to Moderate. While this recipe has several steps, each is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. Proper attention to detail and timing will yield excellent results.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a fantastic recipe for several reasons:
- Flavorful and Delicious: The combination of tender chicken, bright lemon-garlic sauce, and creamy Parmesan rice is incredibly satisfying and packed with flavor.
- Quick and Easy: It’s surprisingly quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the recipe to suit your preferences. Add different vegetables to the scampi, adjust the amount of garlic or red pepper flakes, or use different types of cheese in the rice.
- Impressive: Despite being relatively simple, this dish looks and tastes elegant enough to serve to guests.
- Family-Friendly: Most kids enjoy the flavors of chicken, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are relatively inexpensive and readily available.
Serving Suggestions:
- Spoon the garlic Parmesan rice onto plates and top with the chicken scampi and its flavorful sauce.
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans, for a complete and balanced meal.
- A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing would also complement the dish nicely.
- For a more substantial meal, add crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious scampi sauce.
- A glass of chilled white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) pairs well with the lemon and garlic flavors of the scampi.
Tips:
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Pre-minced garlic tends to lack the pungent aroma and taste of freshly minced garlic.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when sautéing the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic when making the scampi sauce. Burnt garlic will impart a bitter taste to the sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the rice. Pre-shredded Parmesan cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting properly.
- If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute chicken broth in the scampi sauce. Add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
- For a creamier scampi sauce, stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit them altogether.
- To save time, you can cook the rice ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per serving)
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 45g
- Sodium: 600mg (can vary depending on the sodium content of the chicken broth and Parmesan cheese)
Conclusion:
Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a winning combination of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. This recipe is easy to prepare, versatile, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its bright lemon-garlic sauce, tender chicken, and creamy Parmesan rice, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Questions and Answers about Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice:
Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare elements of this dish in advance. The garlic Parmesan rice can be cooked ahead of time and reheated gently before serving. You can also cut the chicken and mince the garlic earlier in the day. However, it’s best to prepare the scampi sauce closer to serving time to maintain its freshness and flavor. Avoid combining the cooked chicken with the sauce too far in advance, as the chicken might become slightly soggy.
Q2: I don’t drink wine. What can I substitute for the white wine in the scampi sauce?
A: Chicken broth is an excellent non-alcoholic substitute for white wine in the scampi sauce. It will still provide the necessary liquid to deglaze the pan and create a flavorful sauce. For an extra boost of flavor and acidity, add a splash of lemon juice or white wine vinegar along with the chicken broth.
Q3: Can I use different vegetables in the chicken scampi?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the chicken scampi to create a more complete meal. Some great options include:
- Asparagus: Add asparagus spears during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking to keep them crisp-tender.
- Broccoli florets: Add broccoli florets during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking.
- Bell peppers: Sauté sliced bell peppers along with the garlic for added sweetness and color.
- Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the garlic for a savory flavor.
- Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach during the last 1-2 minutes of cooking until wilted.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for an intense, tangy flavor.
Q4: Can I use a different type of rice for the garlic Parmesan rice?
A: While long-grain white rice is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of rice. Basmati or jasmine rice will provide a similar texture and flavor. You could also try using Arborio rice for a creamier, risotto-like texture, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly. Brown rice can also be used, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.
Q5: How can I make this recipe healthier?
A: Here are a few ways to make this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice healthier:
- Use whole-wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for coating the chicken.
- Reduce the amount of butter or use olive oil instead.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the sodium content.
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the scampi.
- Serve with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables instead of garlic Parmesan rice, or reduce the portion size of the rice.
- Use part-skim Parmesan cheese.
- Grill or bake the chicken instead of sautéing it to reduce the amount of fat.
