If there’s one dish that comforts the soul and excites the taste buds all at once, it’s this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi Recipe. Imagine tender, juicy chicken tenderloins cooked to perfection and nestled atop a bed of luscious, garlicky Parmesan-infused rice. Every bite bursts with rich buttery aroma, subtle heat from red pepper flakes, and just the right hint of fresh herbs. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress guests, this recipe brings together simplicity and gourmet flavors in one delicious package you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi Recipe calls for ingredients that are straightforward but essential to achieving that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in the dish. Each one plays an important role, whether it’s building the savory sauce or bringing the rice to creamy, cheesy perfection.
- Chicken tenderloins: Tender, quick-cooking pieces that soak up the sauce beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: Basic seasoning that enhances all the flavors.
- Garlic powder: Adds an extra layer of mellow garlic flavor to the chicken.
- Olive oil: For sautéing chicken and adding a subtle fruitiness.
- Butter: The base of the rich, silky sauce that defines this dish.
- Fresh minced garlic: The star ingredient in the sauce, providing that characteristic pungent, comforting aroma.
- Red pepper flakes: A gentle kick of heat to balance the buttery richness.
- Dry white wine: Adds acidity and depth, lifting the whole scampi sauce.
- Chicken broth: Builds moisture and savory flavor as the rice cooks.
- Uncooked white rice: Absorbs the sauce and becomes creamy and flavorful.
- Fresh grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the rice, adding saltiness and that unmistakable nutty tang.
- Fresh parsley: Optional garnish that brightens the dish with color and mild freshness.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi Recipe
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken tenderloins evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the chicken. Aim for a lovely golden-brown crust while ensuring the inside is cooked through, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Once cooked, remove and set aside—this will allow you to focus on the sauce without overcooking the chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Scampi Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. As soon as it’s bubbling, add the fresh minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until it releases its intoxicating fragrance. Next, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and salt to balance flavors. Pour in the dry white wine and chicken broth, allowing the sauce to come to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly so those flavors deepen nicely. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of this sauce for drizzling later—it’s pure magic as a finishing touch!
Step 3: Cook the Rice in the Sauce
Now, add the uncooked white rice directly into the skillet with the remaining sauce. Stir it briefly so every grain gets coated in that buttery, garlicky goodness. Bring this to a simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for around 18 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the liquid has melted into creamy perfection.
Step 4: Final Touches
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the fresh grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts right in, enriching the dish with its nutty and savory notes. Then arrange your cooked chicken tenderloins on top of the rice. Drizzle the reserved sauce over the chicken for extra flavor and moisture. Cover everything for a few minutes to let those layers meld beautifully. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley and extra Parmesan on top to add a pop of color and freshness before serving.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley breathes life into this dish visually and adds a mild, herbaceous contrast to the rich sauce and cheese. For a little extra indulgence, a light dusting of additional grated Parmesan cheese never hurts and complements the flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish is so satisfying on its own that you might not need much on the side. However, a simple crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables can balance the richness and add height and color to your plate. Garlic bread or crusty baguette rounds out the feast and is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that decadent sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider serving the chicken over the Parmesan rice in individual shallow bowls so everyone gets a perfect combo of chicken, rice, and sauce in every bite. Alternatively, plating with a garnish of edible flowers or microgreens adds an elegant touch. If you want a bit of crunch, toasted pine nuts over the top bring an unexpected texture contrast to the mix.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi Recipe reheats beautifully, making it a great option for leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the leftovers for longer storage. Place the cooled chicken and rice mixture in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the dish gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to heat evenly. You can add a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry. Alternatively, use a microwave, covering the dish to retain moisture and stirring midway through heating for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi Recipe?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind brown rice takes longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time accordingly and possibly add more liquid to ensure it becomes tender and creamy.
Is it necessary to use white wine in this recipe?
While white wine adds a lovely acidity and depth, you can substitute it with additional chicken broth or a splash of white grape juice if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. The sauce will still be delicious.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just gently reheat it before combining with the rice and chicken to keep the flavors fresh.
What if I don’t have chicken tenderloins? Can I use chicken breasts?
Chicken breasts work fine, but cut them into smaller, even pieces to ensure they cook quickly and evenly, similar to tenderloins.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also serve with a side of spicy marinara or a drizzle of chili oil for an extra kick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi Recipe that makes it a standout on any table. From the rich, buttery sauce to the tender chicken and cheesy rice, it’s a meal that feels both comforting and indulgent. I encourage you to make it your own, savor every bite, and share it with the people you love. Once you try this recipe, it just might become your new go-to favorite!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi is a flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender chicken tenderloins cooked in a buttery garlic and white wine sauce, served over creamy Parmesan-infused rice. Perfectly balanced with a hint of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick, this recipe is an easy yet elegant option for dinner that combines savory, cheesy, and aromatic notes in every bite.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce & Rice
- 1 stick butter (1/2 cup)
- 2 tablespoons fresh minced garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 3 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
- 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season and Cook Chicken: Season the chicken tenderloins evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the chicken until fully cooked and lightly browned, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the fresh minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in red pepper flakes, salt, white wine, and chicken broth. Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce slightly. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of the sauce for later use.
- Cook the Rice: Add the uncooked rice directly to the skillet with the remaining sauce. Stir briefly to coat the rice, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid, approximately 18-20 minutes.
- Finish the Dish: Once the rice is tender, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the rice and stir to combine. Arrange the cooked chicken on top of the rice, then drizzle the reserved sauce over the chicken. Cover the skillet and let the dish rest for a few minutes to meld the flavors. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor in the sauce.
- White wine adds depth; if you prefer, substitute with additional chicken broth.
- Make sure to stir occasionally when cooking the rice to prevent sticking.
- Letting the dish rest before serving helps the flavors meld together perfectly.
- For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
