Introduction

Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is a flavorful and comforting dish perfect for any night of the week. Juicy chicken seared to perfection is simmered in a garlicky, buttery sauce and served over rich, cheesy rice. This recipe brings together simple ingredients for a delicious meal your family will love.

A white plate filled with a bed of fluffy white rice topped with multiple golden-brown grilled chicken pieces that shine with a light glaze. The chicken is sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs, and a creamy yellow sauce with green herb flecks surrounds the rice at the base of the plate. The dish sits on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and fresh background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into chunks

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

3 tbsp butter, divided

1 tbsp olive oil

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

1 tbsp chopped parsley (fresh or 1 tsp dried)

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup milk or cream

1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice or jasmine

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Heat olive oil and 1.5 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Add chicken and sear until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 5: Stir in red pepper flakes, parsley, and lemon juice or a splash of chicken broth. Simmer for 2 minutes.

Step 6: Return chicken to the skillet and coat in the sauce. Simmer another 2–3 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 7: In a separate saucepan, bring chicken broth and milk or cream to a simmer.

Step 8: Add rice, cover, and cook until tender according to package instructions, typically about 15-20 minutes.

Step 9: Stir in Parmesan cheese and a pinch of garlic powder until the rice becomes creamy.

Step 10: Serve the chicken over a bed of creamy garlic Parmesan rice. Garnish with additional parsley or Parmesan as desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra richness, use heavy cream instead of milk in the rice.

Add steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a complete meal.

Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier texture or use turkey for a leaner option.

If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.

Use fresh lemon juice for a bright, tangy finish or skip it for a milder flavor.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly to ensure the rice is tender and creamy.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

While the chicken and sauce freeze well, the creamy rice can change texture after freezing. It’s best to freeze them separately and reheat carefully, adding extra cream or broth to restore creaminess.