Eating something hot , yummy can feel like you’re travel into an old Italian kitchen . Our Chicken Scampi flips the classic shrimp idea by using chicken instead . It swims in a garliс and white wine sauce to bring bоld flavor bursts . Fusion foods like this are getting more popular these days , letting cooks try new tricks with simple meals .

This guide will walk you through making Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice step by step . You’ll find tips to keep things easy and make it look nice on the plate . We’ll also tackle some common questions so you don’t hit roadblocks . Whether you’re just starting or you’ve cooked before , this recipe will bring a bit of fancy comfort to your table . Get ready to wow your friends and family with a dish that’s not just tasty , but also feels special .

What is Chicken Scampi?

Chicken Scampi is a twist on the old Italian dish that used to mean shrimp or shellfish . Now cooks swap in chicken breasts because they’re cheap and soak up the sauce well . It gives you that garliс , lemony punch without any fishy taste .

By using chicken instead of seafood , this dish works for folks who don’t like shrimp . The chicken soaks up the garlic , lemon juice , and wine to make every bite rich and tasty . A sprinkle of parsley and a pinch of red pepper adds color and a tiny kick .

Ingredients for Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

For the Chicken Scampi:

2 chicken breasts , boneless and skinless
2 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoon butter
4 cloves garlic , minced
½ cup white wine or chicken broth
2 tablespoon lemon juice and zest
¼ cup fresh parsley , chopped
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice:

1 cup Arborio rice (or any short-grain rice)
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
4 cloves garlic , minced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoon butter
Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Prep Everything

Get all your ingredients out first . Mince the garlic , zest and juice the lemons , then cut chicken into bite-sized chunks . Having it ready saves time and stress later .

Step 2: Make the Rice

Heat chicken broth in a pot , keep it warm . In another pan , melt butter and add garlic until you smell it , about 1 min . Stir in rice so it’s coated . Add warm broth by ladle , stirring each time until it’s absorbed . After 15–20 min , when rice is creamy and almost done , mix in cream and Parmesan . Season with salt and pepper , then turn heat to low .

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet , heat oil and butter over med-high heat . Add chicken pieces , season with salt and pepper , and cook till golden brown , about 6–8 min . Take chicken out and set aside .

Lower heat in the same pan and add garlic , cook until it smells good . Pour in wine or broth and scrape up browned bits from the bottom . Let it simmer 2–3 min . Stir in lemon juice , zest , parsley , and red pepper flakes . Put chicken back in and mix well , cooking another 2 min so flavors blend .

Step 4: Plate It

Scoop rice onto each plate , top with chicken scampi and spoon extra sauce over it . Sprinkle a bit more parsley or red pepper if you like . Those bright greens and reds make it look as good as it tastes .

Cooking Tips

Use chicken breasts for a lean meal or thighs for richer taste . Taste sauce as you go : more lemon brightens it , a splash of broth mellows it . Swap heavy cream for low-fat if you want lighter food . Serve with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc to match the garlic and lemon .

Variations

If you’re feeling bold , swap chicken back to shrimp and follow the same steps . For veggies only , cook mushrooms , zucchini , and spinach instead . Toss in sun-dried tomatoes or olives if you want a new twist .

Storage & Reheating

Let leftovers cool . Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days . To reheat rice , add a bit of broth or cream and warm it on the stove , stirring so it stays creamy . Avoid the microwave if you can , it can make rice rubbery .

FAQs

What’s the main change in Chicken Scampi?
It uses chicken instead of shrimp but keeps the same garliс and lemon sauce .

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes , just thaw it fully so it cooks evenly .

Is it spicy?
Not unless you add the red pepper flakes . You can skip them or add more if you like heat .

What if I have no wine?
Chicken broth works great as a substitute and still makes a tasty sauce .

Can I make rice ahead?
Sure . Store it in the fridge and reheat with a splash of liquid to keep it creamy .

Conclusion

Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is a simple way to make dinner feel special . The garliс sauce , tender chicken , and creamy rice come together in every bite . Try it at home and share how it goes in the comments below !

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