Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

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This Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is comfort food with a gourmet twist. Imagine golden-seared chicken bites swimming in a buttery garlic-herb sauce, all served over a bed of rich, cheesy rice that practically melts in your mouth. Each bite is savory, creamy, and kissed with a hint of lemon and fresh parsley for that scampi zing.

It’s a one-pan dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen table, perfect for weeknights when you want something impressive but still easy. With minimal prep and big flavor payoff, this is the kind of recipe you’ll make on repeat.

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

This recipe delivers all the elegance of classic shrimp scampi but swaps in tender chicken for a more accessible, family-friendly take. The rice absorbs the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce like a dream, making every forkful deeply satisfying. You’ll love how fast it comes together and how well it reheats the next day.

Even picky eaters won’t be able to resist the buttery, cheesy goodness paired with lightly browned, seasoned chicken.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for This Recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe since they cook quickly and evenly. However, chicken thighs also work beautifully if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful bite. Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and absorb all that delicious scampi sauce.

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Ingredients for the Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

This flavor-packed dish comes together with simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients that elevate the final dish beautifully.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: The protein centerpiece of this dish, seared to golden perfection.
• Long grain white rice: Acts as the creamy, cheesy base that soaks up the scampi sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Bring that iconic garlicky aroma and depth to both the chicken and the rice.
• Butter: Adds richness and forms the base of the scampi sauce.
• Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken and blend flavors.
• Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with deep savory flavor.
• Heavy cream: Makes the rice creamy and indulgent.
• Parmesan cheese: Melts into the rice for a salty, nutty layer of flavor.
• Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the dish and balances the richness.
• Fresh parsley: Adds color and fresh herbal notes.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick.
• Salt and black pepper: For seasoning throughout.

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How To Make the Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and half the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Start the Rice

In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in uncooked rice and toast it lightly in the garlic butter.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in chicken broth and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Once rice is cooked, stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Mix until creamy and fully combined.

Step 5: Add Chicken Back In

Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Let everything heat together for 2-3 minutes, then finish with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Plate it up immediately while it’s warm and cheesy. Spoon extra sauce over the top and garnish with more Parmesan if you’re feeling bold.

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How to Serve and Store This Chicken Scampi

This dish serves 4 people generously and makes for a filling, flavorful meal on its own. Serve it in shallow bowls so the creamy garlic sauce can settle into the rice, and top it with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley.

If you have leftovers, transfer them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the rice before warming it up in a skillet or microwave. It’s just as delicious the next day!

Avoid freezing, as the creamy rice tends to lose its texture when thawed and reheated.

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What to Serve With Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice?

Complement this rich dish with fresh, bright, or crisp sides that balance the creamy, buttery goodness:

Steamed Green Beans with Lemon Zest

A citrusy vegetable side that cuts through the richness.

Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Nutty and crispy sprouts pair well with the creamy rice base.

Mixed Greens with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Add a cool, tangy contrast with a simple side salad.

Parmesan Crusted Asparagus

Amp up the cheese theme with this oven-baked veggie.

Toasted Baguette Slices

Perfect for scooping up leftover garlic butter sauce.

Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

An easy and nutritious side with minimal effort.

White Wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)

Bright, crisp wine enhances the scampi flavor.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you’re loving this creamy scampi-style chicken dish, try these next:

• Tuscan Chicken with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce for a rustic Italian favorite.
• Chicken Mushroom Alfredo when you’re craving bold, creamy comfort.
• Garlic Butter Meatballs with Velvety Parmesan Penne for a family-style pasta favorite.
• Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Linguine in Creamy Parmesan Sauce if you’re in the mood for heat.
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe for the ultimate date night winner.

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Let me know in the comments how your version turned out! Did you use chicken thighs? Add more garlic? Maybe a splash of wine? I love hearing all the tasty twists.

Explore more weeknight dinner inspiration, creamy comfort meals, and scampi-style favorites on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and find your next kitchen win!

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