Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

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Imagine the aroma of buttery garlic and Parmesan wafting through your kitchen, mingling with savory, pan-seared chicken and perfectly seasoned rice. This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying dish. Ideal for busy weeknights, it brings together tender, seasoned chicken and creamy, garlic-infused rice for a meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Not only does it pack in bold flavors, but it also serves as a well-rounded, filling meal that can be stored and reheated for later enjoyment. With just one skillet and some pantry staples, you can create a restaurant-worthy meal in under an hour.

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Ingredients

Let’s go through the key ingredients that bring out the best flavors in this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice:

• 1 lb. chicken tenderloins – Boneless and skinless for quick cooking; season well for maximum flavor.
• Salt and pepper – Basic yet essential for seasoning.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a subtle layer of garlic flavor to the chicken.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For searing the chicken to a golden brown.
• 1 stick butter (divided) – Adds rich, creamy texture and buttery flavor to the rice.
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic – Fresh garlic is key here, infusing the dish with robust flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes – A pinch of heat for a bit of extra depth.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt (divided) – Enhances all the flavors, ensuring a well-seasoned dish.
• 1/2 cup dry white wine – Deglazes the pan and adds a hint of acidity that balances the richness of the butter and Parmesan.
• 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice – Absorbs all the delicious flavors from the sauce, wine, and broth.
• 3 cups chicken broth – Provides a savory base for cooking the rice, adding flavor and depth.
• 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese – Melts beautifully into the rice, creating a creamy, cheesy consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

1. Seasoning: Start by seasoning the chicken tenderloins with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to add a layer of flavor that will seep into the rice later.
2. Searing the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the seasoned chicken tenderloins. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes per side or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and cover to keep warm.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Sautéing Garlic: In the same skillet, add 1/2 of the butter, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Sauté the garlic for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Make sure the garlic doesn’t burn to avoid a bitter taste.
2. Adding White Wine: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the dry white wine, stirring vigorously to deglaze the pan and incorporate any browned bits from the chicken. Let the wine mixture reduce by half, which should take around 5 minutes. This step intensifies the sauce, adding a slight tang from the wine.
3. Reserving Sauce: Once reduced, set aside 2 tablespoons of this sauce for drizzling over the finished dish.

Step 3: Toast the Rice and Simmer

1. Toasting the Rice: Add the uncooked white rice to the skillet with the remaining butter. Stir for 3-4 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast and absorb the flavors from the pan.
2. Adding Chicken Broth and Cooking the Rice: Pour in the chicken broth and add the remaining teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally during the first 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Adding Parmesan: Once the rice is tender, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top, stirring gently to melt the cheese into the rice.
2. Plating the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken tenderloins on top of the rice. Drizzle the reserved 2 tablespoons of garlic-butter sauce over the chicken and rice for added flavor.
3. Finishing Touches: Cover the skillet, remove it from heat, and let it sit for 5 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and ensures a creamy consistency.
4. Garnish and Serve: For an extra touch, garnish with more Parmesan and fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

• Substituting the White Wine: If you prefer not to use wine, replace it with an equal amount of chicken broth for a milder flavor. A splash of lemon juice can also add brightness without the wine.
• Rice Variations: Jasmine or Basmati rice work well for a fragrant twist, while Arborio rice will create an extra creamy, risotto-like texture.
• Adding Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value by adding a handful of spinach, diced bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes when cooking the rice.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

• Serving Ideas: Pair this dish with a light green salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to add a fresh contrast. A glass of dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, perfectly complements the garlic and Parmesan flavors.
• Storing and Reheating: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to maintain the rice’s moisture. Reheat in a microwave or in a skillet over medium heat.

The Delightful Experience of Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

This dish has all the comfort and appeal of a classic Italian scampi, but with an easy, one-pan approach. Each bite is filled with savory garlic, creamy Parmesan, and juicy chicken that harmonize perfectly together. The rice captures all the flavors, absorbing the buttery sauce and wine for a tender, aromatic experience that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or a special meal for friends, Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice will surely impress with its simple elegance and rich, delectable taste.