Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

If you’re craving a flavorful and comforting chicken dinner that’s quick enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for company, this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is your new go-to. Inspired by the zesty flavors of shrimp scampi, this version uses tender chicken breasts paired with a creamy, garlicky rice that’s bursting with Parmesan goodness. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy, but is secretly super easy to make—perfect for when you want something hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Scampi:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Juice of 1 lemon
¼ cup chicken broth (or dry white wine for a more classic scampi flavor)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:

1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 cup long-grain white rice
2½ cups chicken broth
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the uncooked rice and stir it around to toast slightly for 1–2 minutes. This helps bring out a rich, nutty flavor.

Add 2½ cups of chicken broth, garlic powder, and salt, then stir to combine. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15–18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Once cooked, stir in the Parmesan cheese, a crack of black pepper, and parsley if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Cover and set aside while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the rice is simmering, season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. If your chicken breasts are thick, consider slicing them in half horizontally or pounding them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F / 74°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate. Tent with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Scampi Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—careful not to burn the garlic.

Add the lemon juice and chicken broth (or wine) to the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly, then stir in the butter until melted and glossy.

Return the chicken to the pan and spoon the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for another minute or two to warm the chicken and allow the flavors to meld. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley just before serving.

How to Serve

Spoon a generous portion of the garlic Parmesan rice onto each plate, then top with a juicy piece of chicken. Drizzle some of that zesty scampi sauce over the top and around the rice—don’t waste a drop! Garnish with a bit of extra Parmesan or parsley if you’d like.

Tips & Variations

Chicken swaps: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe too—just adjust cooking time slightly.

Add veggies: Toss in a handful of spinach, steamed broccoli, or sautéed zucchini into the rice for a built-in veggie boost.

Creamy option: Want it creamier? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of cream cheese into the rice for extra richness.

Make it spicy: Add a bit more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the scampi sauce for a spicy kick.

Rice alternatives: This dish also works great with orzo, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Why This Recipe Works

This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice works because it’s the perfect balance of fresh, tangy, buttery, and savory. The chicken is seared until golden, locking in all the juices, while the scampi sauce adds just the right amount of acidity and richness. The garlic Parmesan rice is simple but packed with flavor—it soaks up the sauce beautifully and makes each bite ultra-satisfying.

What makes this dish even better is that it all comes together with basic pantry ingredients, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or when you want to cook something special without a trip to the grocery store.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Weeknight Dinner: Comes together in 30–40 minutes and feels way more special than takeout.
Date Night In: With the lemon-butter sauce and flavorful rice, it’s romantic, without being fussy.
Family Favorite: Kid-friendly, yet adult-approved—especially if you keep the spice level low.
Meal Prep: The chicken and rice both reheat beautifully, making this a great option for lunches or meal prepping.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the rice if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is one of those meals that proves you don’t need fancy ingredients to create something absolutely delicious. It’s simple, comforting, and filled with flavors that keep you coming back for more. Serve it with a side salad or some roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make.