Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

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Golden seared chicken cutlets simmered in a buttery garlic sauce, paired with a rich and velvety parmesan rice — this Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is the definition of comfort food with flair. Inspired by Italian-American flavors, this dish brings together tender protein, decadent sauce, and herby freshness for an unforgettable weeknight dinner or an easy entertaining main course.

This recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something restaurant-worthy but without the fuss. The creamy garlic rice acts like a savory canvas for the zesty lemon-garlic chicken, creating a dreamy balance of flavors. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing guests, this one is guaranteed to satisfy.

What Kind of Rice Should I Use for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice?

For that luxuriously creamy consistency, medium or short-grain rice like Arborio works best. However, long-grain white rice or jasmine rice can also be used if that’s what you have in your pantry. The trick is to let the rice simmer gently in a mix of broth and milk, absorbing all that liquid while releasing some of its starch to create a luscious texture.

Ingredients for the Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Chicken Breast Cutlets
Thinly sliced chicken breasts cook quickly and soak up the buttery garlic-lemon scampi sauce beautifully.

Fresh Garlic
A must for both the scampi sauce and the rice base. It infuses the dish with deep, aromatic flavor.

Butter and Olive Oil
The butter adds richness while the olive oil helps sear the chicken without burning the dairy.

Lemon Juice and Zest
These brighten up the entire dish, balancing out the creaminess of the rice with a punch of acidity.

Chicken Broth
Used in the rice and scampi sauce to enhance the savory depth.

Heavy Cream and Milk
The cream gives the rice its luscious finish, while milk keeps the texture smooth without overwhelming.

Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated parmesan melts into the rice, bringing that salty, nutty character.

Parsley and Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
Fresh parsley for garnish and a pinch of heat from pepper flakes to round out the flavor.

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How To Make the Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season your chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, and a light dusting of flour. Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a mix of butter and olive oil. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Scampi Sauce

In the same skillet, add more butter and fresh minced garlic. Cook until fragrant. Deglaze with a splash of chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up the flavorful bits from the pan. Let it simmer until slightly reduced. Add lemon zest and crushed red pepper flakes for that signature zing.

Step 3: Start the Garlic Parmesan Rice

In a separate saucepan, sauté minced garlic in butter until soft. Stir in uncooked rice and toast for 1-2 minutes. Add chicken broth and milk, bring to a simmer, then cover and cook on low until the rice is tender and creamy.

Step 4: Finish the Rice

Once the rice has absorbed most of the liquid, stir in heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until fully melted and velvety. Adjust salt to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Place the seared chicken over a bed of creamy garlic parmesan rice. Drizzle with the lemony scampi sauce, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the harmony of creamy and zesty in every bite.

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How to Serve and Store Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Serve the chicken scampi hot, straight from the stove, over a generous scoop of creamy garlic parmesan rice. It’s best enjoyed immediately when the textures are perfect and the flavors are at their peak. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the rice’s creamy consistency.

What to Serve With Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice?

Roasted Parmesan Green Beans

These crisp, cheesy green beans bring texture and freshness to balance the creamy rice. Try our Roasted Parmesan Green Beans for a perfect pairing.

Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls

Mop up every drop of scampi sauce with warm, fluffy bread.

Simple Arugula Salad

A lightly dressed arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds brightness.

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Double up on the protein with our Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders for a family-style dinner.

Roasted Broccoli and Sweet Potatoes

This colorful combo roasts beautifully and makes the meal more filling.

Buttery Asparagus

Quickly sautéed or roasted, asparagus adds elegance and a clean, green flavor.

Strawberry Spinach Salad

If you want a touch of sweetness, this salad delivers both freshness and color.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice, here are more comforting chicken dinners to explore next:

• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for that same garlic punch in a skillet version.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole if you’re craving cheesy, baked goodness.
• Marry Me Chicken with sun-dried tomatoes and a dreamy sauce.
• Chicken Pomodoro for a tomato-forward Italian-inspired favorite.
• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli that sneaks in veggies and comfort in one pan.

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you serve it with crusty bread or a salad? Add a splash of white wine to your sauce? I’d love to hear your twist on it.

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