Looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that combines the zest of lemon, the aroma of garlic, and the richness of Parmesan? Look no further than our Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering with family and friends. The tender chicken strips cooked in a savory lemon-garlic sauce, paired with creamy garlic Parmesan rice, will leave your taste buds craving more. Let's dive into the ingredients that make this dish truly exceptional.
Ingredients
Gathering fresh, high-quality ingredients is key to creating a meal that stands out. Here's what you'll need for both the chicken scampi and the garlic Parmesan rice:
For the Chicken:
- Chicken Breasts: 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced.
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup.
- Lemon Juice: Juice of 1 lemon.
- White Wine: 1/4 cup (optional).
- Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons.
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped, plus more for garnish.
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- Long-Grain White Rice: 1 cup.
- Chicken Broth: 2 cups.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup, grated.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious and perfectly cooked Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice:
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat the Olive Oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Cook the chicken strips for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan: Add chicken broth, lemon juice, and white wine (optional) to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits.
- Reduce the Sauce: Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in butter until melted. Return chicken to coat in the sauce.
- Add Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the chicken before serving.
Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine rice, chicken broth, and minced garlic.
- Bring to a Boil: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Simmer the Rice: Cook for 15-20 minutes until tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in Parmesan: Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
- Season: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions: Serve the chicken scampi over the garlic Parmesan rice. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Pair with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
Storage Instructions: Cool leftovers completely before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.
Helpful Notes and Variations
Customize this dish with these variations:
- Vegetable Additions: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added color and nutrition.
- Protein Alternatives: Use shrimp or scallops instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
- Grain Substitutions: Swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Herb Substitutions: Try thyme or oregano in place of parsley for a different flavor.
Chef's Tip: Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.