Chicken Scampi Garlic Parmesan Rice
Tender chicken with creamy garlic parmesan rice, fresh lemon, and herbs for a satisfying family meal.
Prep Time 15 Minutes
Cook Time 25 Minutes
Total Time 40 Minutes
By: Barbara
Category: Hearty Mains
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: Italian-American
Yield: 4 Servings
Dietary: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
→ Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Rice and Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Extra lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Heat olive oil and unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Sear the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
Lower the heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until aromatic. Pour in lemon juice and lemon zest, stirring to deglaze and scrape up any fond from the pan.
Add long grain white rice to the skillet, stirring well to coat in the aromatics and fat. Toast the rice for 1 to 2 minutes until slightly translucent.
Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes until rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Incorporate heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring gently until the cheese melts and the rice is creamy. Let sit for 1 minute for optimal texture.
Transfer creamy rice onto serving plates. Slice reserved chicken and arrange over the rice. Garnish with fresh parsley and add extra lemon wedges on the side before serving.
Notes
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs to achieve a juicier profile.
- Half and half can be used in place of heavy cream for a lighter texture.
- Hand-grated Parmesan enhances melt and flavor.
- Leftovers store well and are ideal for reheating.
Tools You'll Need
- Large skillet with lid
- Cutting board
- Sharp chef's knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
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