Introduction
Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is an indulgent dish that combines tender chicken with aromatic garlic and zesty lemon flavors, served over creamy, cheese-infused rice. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal that impresses guests without requiring hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to prepare this delicious meal.
Ingredients
To make this dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- Chicken and Seasoning:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain rice
- 3 cups chicken broth (for cooking rice)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Preparation Method
Cooking the Rice:
- Prepare the Rice Base: In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
- Flavor the Rice: Once the rice is cooked, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter, the minced garlic from 2 cloves, and the grated Parmesan cheese until everything is thoroughly mixed and the rice has a creamy texture.
Preparing the Chicken:
- Season and Cook Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Make the Scampi Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the remaining 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the 1/2 cup of chicken broth, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the chicken to coat it thoroughly. Let it simmer together for another 2 minutes to allow the chicken to soak up the flavors of the sauce.
Serving
To serve, plate the Garlic Parmesan rice as a bed on each plate and top with a chicken breast. Spoon some of the scampi sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired to add a fresh, herbal note to the dish.
Conclusion
Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delightful dish that brings together the robust flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and lemon. It’s not only satisfying but also a visually appealing meal that could easily become a new favorite at your dinner table. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is a perfect example of how easy it can be to create a gourmet-style meal at home. Enjoy the rich flavors and hearty textures of this wonderful dish with family and friends!