Golden seared chicken bites tossed in buttery garlic and pepper flakes, nestled on a bed of fluffy rice coated in creamy parmesan—this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a dinner that’s easy to love. The flavors are bright with lemon and bold with garlic, and the texture is all comfort. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting a casual dinner night, this dish promises maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

The best part? It’s a one-pan wonder for the chicken, and the rice cooks hands-off while you work. The recipe strikes that perfect balance between indulgent and fresh. A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens up the savory flavors, while parsley adds a clean, herbal note. It’s hearty, satisfying, and ready to be your next favorite weeknight classic.

What Makes This Chicken Scampi So Irresistible?

What makes this recipe shine is the simplicity of the ingredients and how they come together. Tender chicken is quickly sautéed in olive oil and finished with butter, garlic, and lemon—those scampi-style flavors that hit all the right notes. Paired with creamy, cheesy rice, it transforms into a restaurant-style dish that’s surprisingly easy to whip up at home. It’s comforting yet fresh, rich but not heavy, and made from ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients for the Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Chicken Breast – Lean and protein-packed, cut into bite-size pieces for quick cooking and better seasoning.

Olive Oil and Butter – The olive oil is for searing; the butter adds richness to the sauce.

Garlic – Freshly minced garlic gives this dish its signature aromatic base.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, but they add a subtle heat that pairs beautifully with the lemon and garlic.

Lemon Juice – A splash of acidity that balances the richness and brightens the flavors.

Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings that make every bite count.

Long-Grain White Rice – Serves as the starchy base and soaks up all the delicious juices.

Chicken Broth – Infuses the rice with deep, savory flavor.

Parmesan Cheese – Grated and stirred into the rice for that luscious, cheesy finish.

Fresh Parsley – Chopped and sprinkled on top for a fresh, herbal kick that enhances presentation and taste.

How To Make the Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Let the chicken sit at room temperature while you prepare the other ingredients to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and sear for about 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan—work in batches if needed. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and stir in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth or lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

While the chicken is resting, prepare the rice. In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add long-grain white rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 18 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Fluff the Rice

Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese. Fluff with a fork to distribute the cheese evenly. Taste and adjust salt if needed.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

Return the cooked chicken to the garlic butter skillet and toss to reheat and coat with the sauce. Serve the chicken over a generous scoop of garlic parmesan rice. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with chopped parsley.

How to Serve and Store Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

This dish is best served warm straight from the skillet, allowing the buttery garlic sauce to soak into the rice for full flavor impact. Garnish with extra parsley and a lemon wedge for brightness. For an elegant touch, pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini.

To store leftovers, transfer the cooled chicken and rice to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back moisture, then warm it in the microwave or a skillet over medium heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking. Once the chicken is golden and no longer pink in the center, remove it from heat. Cutting it into even-sized pieces also helps it cook uniformly.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly for best results.

What other cheese can I use besides parmesan?

Pecorino Romano or Asiago can be excellent substitutes if you prefer a sharper flavor.

Is this recipe spicy?

The crushed red pepper flakes add a mild kick, but you can adjust the amount or omit them entirely based on your heat preference.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely. Just warm it through in the garlic butter sauce at the end. Keep in mind it may not absorb flavors as deeply as freshly cooked chicken.

How do I make it creamier?

Add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese to the rice after it’s cooked for an ultra-creamy twist.

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Description

This savory skillet meal features golden chicken bites in a buttery garlic lemon sauce, served over creamy parmesan rice. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and bright.

Instructions

Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken pieces for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter, garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds.
Deglaze with lemon juice, scraping up browned bits. Remove from heat.
In a separate saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Stir in rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes.
Once rice is tender, stir in parmesan cheese and fluff with a fork.
Return chicken to skillet to warm through. Serve over parmesan rice.
Garnish with parsley and a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner

Want More Dinner Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, don’t miss these other savory stars from the blog:

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for a cozy, hearty pasta night.
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet if you love sizzling skillet meals.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for bold flavor in every bite.
One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for an easy weeknight go-to.
Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce for a protein-packed garlic lover’s dream.

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