Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

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Golden, seared chicken bites drenched in a buttery garlic herb sauce layered over creamy garlic Parmesan rice—this is comfort food with flair. Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice blends everything we love about cozy weeknight meals with restaurant-style flavor. Each bite is juicy, bold, and silky from the garlic cream base, and the rice underneath? It soaks up every last drop of that luscious sauce.

If you’re craving a hearty dinner that comes together in under an hour, this dish delivers. It looks impressive, tastes even better, and feels like a hug in a bowl. The rich sauce, with flecks of red chili, parsley, and melted butter, clings to the perfectly seasoned chicken. Add fluffy rice cooked in a garlic-Parmesan cream and you’ve got a dinner that’s both bold and soothing.

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What Makes the Best Chicken for Scampi?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for this dish. Breasts give you lean, tender chunks that hold their shape, while thighs offer extra juiciness. The key is to cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces so they sear evenly. A quick marinade or seasoning with Italian herbs, garlic powder, and a pinch of crushed red pepper adds depth.

Cooking the chicken in a hot skillet ensures you get those delicious golden edges that lock in flavor and give the scampi sauce something to cling to.

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Ingredients for the Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Chicken Breast or Thighs – Tender protein base that crisps beautifully when seared.

Butter – Adds rich flavor to the sauce and helps brown the chicken.

Garlic – Minced fresh garlic infuses every layer with robust aroma and taste.

Crushed Red Pepper – A pop of heat that enhances the savory notes.

Italian Seasoning – The herb blend that ties everything together.

Chicken Broth – Deepens the sauce and cooks the rice with added flavor.

Heavy Cream – Makes the rice luscious and velvety.

Parmesan Cheese – Grated cheese melts into the rice, creating that creamy tang.

Jasmine or Long Grain White Rice – Cooked slowly to soak up the creamy garlic sauce.

Parsley and Diced Red Chili (optional) – Fresh garnish for color and a subtle kick.

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How To Make the Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized chunks. Pat them dry, then season generously with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of butter and sear the chicken in batches until golden and cooked through. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add a bit more butter and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté just until fragrant, then pour in the rice and toast it slightly. Add chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Cover and cook the rice until tender, about 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Once the rice is cooked, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, a splash of broth will help loosen it up.

Step 3: Prepare the Scampi Sauce

In a separate small pan, melt more butter with minced garlic, red chili flakes, and a sprinkle of parsley. Cook until bubbly and aromatic, then return the cooked chicken to this pan. Toss everything together until the chicken is coated in the buttery scampi glaze.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Spoon a generous serving of the creamy garlic Parmesan rice onto a plate. Top it with the golden chicken pieces and drizzle any remaining scampi sauce over everything. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if you’d like.

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Serving and Storing Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

This dish is best enjoyed hot off the stove when the creamy rice is at its peak silkiness and the chicken is still glistening in its buttery scampi sauce. Serve it in shallow bowls to hold the sauce, and add a wedge of lemon for a bright zing if you like a citrus twist.

Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for balance, and a glass of chilled white wine for a cozy dinner night.

To store leftovers, let the chicken and rice cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to bring back the creamy texture. Avoid microwaving too long, as the chicken can dry out.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

It has a subtle warmth from the crushed red pepper, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can reduce or omit the chili if you’re sensitive to heat.

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Yes! While freshly seared chicken gives the best texture and flavor, pre-cooked chicken can work in a pinch. Just warm it in the scampi sauce before serving.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can swap it with half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version. The richness will change slightly but still taste delicious.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based butter and coconut cream instead of dairy, and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan alternative. The flavor will have a different twist but still satisfying.

What’s the best rice to use?

Jasmine or long grain white rice is perfect for soaking up the sauce while staying fluffy. Avoid quick-cooking rice, which can turn mushy in the creamy base.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can cook the rice and chicken separately and combine them before serving. The scampi sauce is best fresh, so reheat it gently and mix everything just before plating.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice hit the spot, you’ll love diving into these other savory meals from the blog:

• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta
• One Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta Dinner
• Sweet Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Each recipe offers its own delicious take on chicken with creamy or bold flavor combos, perfect for busy nights or weekend indulgence.

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And don’t forget to tag me or leave a comment if you make it! Did you add extra chili? Try a different cheese? I’d love to hear how you made it yours.

For more of my favorite everyday recipes, follow along on Pinterest: Life with Nina

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