Delicious Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

🧄 Ingredients

For the Chicken Scampi:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, thinly sliced

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional for heat)

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1/4 cup white wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp chopped parsley

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice

• 2 tbsp butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken Scampi:

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add chicken slices, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown on both sides.

3. Add minced garlic and red chili flakes; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Pour in chicken broth and wine (if using). Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes.

5. Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan cheese. Toss until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.

6. Sprinkle with parsley and remove from heat.

2. Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice:

1. In a separate pot, melt butter and sauté garlic until aromatic.

2. Add rice and toast for 1 minute.

3. Pour in chicken broth and cook on low heat until rice is tender (about 15 minutes).

4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; mix until creamy.

5. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Serve:

• Spoon the creamy rice onto a plate, top with juicy chicken scampi, and drizzle extra sauce over it.

• Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

🍽️ Serving Suggestion

Pair it with garlic bread, roasted veggies, or a fresh green salad.

💬 Q&A

Q1: Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?
A: Yes! Just cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side instead of chicken — it turns this dish into a restaurant-style Shrimp Scampi.

Q2: What if I don’t have heavy cream?
A: Use milk mixed with a teaspoon of butter or a bit of cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.

Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can cook the rice and chicken separately and combine before serving. Just reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.

Q4: Is this dish spicy?
A: Not by default — the spice only comes from red chili flakes, which you can skip if you prefer a mild flavor.

Q5: How can I make it more Mediterranean-style?
A: Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or spinach to the chicken scampi for a Mediterranean twist.