Easy Chicken Scampi With Garlic Parmesan Rice

Easy chicken scampi with garlic parmesan rice—a flavorful, creamy, and comforting dish perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, or family meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-skillet simplicity: Less cleanup and more convenience.
  • Restaurant-quality flavor: Garlic, wine, butter, and Parmesan make this dish rich and luxurious.
  • Balanced and filling: Protein, grains, and flavor all in one pan.
  • Customizable: Swap the protein or use brown rice to fit your preferences.
  • Perfect for families: Mild yet flavorful, it appeals to all ages.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken tenderloins
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 tablespoons fresh minced garlic
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio)
  • 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley

Directions

  1. Season chicken tenderloins with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove from skillet, cover, and set aside.
  3. Add 1/4 cup butter, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant (do not burn the garlic).
  4. Raise the heat to medium-high and add white wine. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes to reduce the sauce by half. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the sauce.
  5. Stir in rice and cook for 3–4 minutes to lightly toast it.
  6. Pour in chicken broth and remaining 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a gentle boil, then cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 20 minutes, stirring once or twice.
  7. Sprinkle Parmesan over the rice and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Drizzle with the reserved sauce.
  8. Cover, remove from heat, and let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Servings And Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Calories per serving: 735 kcal

Variations

  • Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer rice base.
  • Add veggies: Toss in spinach, peas, or mushrooms during the rice simmering step.
  • Swap proteins: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for variety.
  • Use brown rice: Adjust cooking time and liquid accordingly.
  • Gluten-free: Ensure broth and wine are certified gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the rice, or microwave in 1-minute intervals.
  • Freezing: Not recommended due to the texture change in rice, but can be done in a pinch. Freeze in individual portions and reheat thoroughly.

FAQs

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead Of Tenderloins?

Yes, just slice them into strips for even cooking.

What Can I Use Instead Of White Wine?

Use chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar as a substitute.

Can I Make This Without Butter?

Butter adds richness, but you can use olive oil or a dairy-free alternative.

How Do I Know When The Chicken Is Cooked?

It should be golden on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What Kind Of Parmesan Should I Use?

Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and melts more smoothly than pre-shredded.

Can I Use Instant Rice?

You can, but adjust cooking time and liquid according to the rice instructions.

Is This Dish Spicy?

It has a mild kick from red pepper flakes, which you can omit or adjust.

Can I Cook The Chicken And Rice Separately?

Yes, but combining them in one pan builds deeper flavor and saves time.

Can I Make This Ahead Of Time?

Yes, prepare in advance and reheat with a bit of added broth for moisture.

Will This Work As A Meal Prep Option?

Absolutely! Divide into containers and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is the perfect blend of savory, creamy, and satisfying—all made in one skillet. This elegant yet fuss-free dinner is perfect for a busy weeknight or cozy family meal. With classic flavors and a rich texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation.

Popular Picks to Try After Chicken Scampi

Loved our Easy Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice? Don’t stop here—check out more reader-favorite recipes that combine creamy textures, bold seasoning, and high-protein ingredients. For a quick dinner idea with an umami punch, try this flavorful Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms. If you’re into pasta with a gourmet feel, the Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a must-try. Craving a burger with a cheesy twist? Don’t miss the Juicy White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers. And for something light but surprisingly satisfying, the viral Fluffy Cottage Cheese Cloud Bread makes the perfect low-carb companion to any meal.

Print
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Skillet of golden seared chicken pieces served over creamy garlic parmesan rice and garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Easy Chicken Scampi With Garlic Parmesan Rice


  • Author: Chef Clara
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

Easy chicken scampi with garlic parmesan rice—a flavorful, creamy, and comforting dish perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, or family meals.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken tenderloins
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 tablespoons fresh minced garlic
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio)
  • 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley


Instructions

  1. Season chicken tenderloins with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet, cover, and set aside.
  3. Add 1/4 cup butter, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Increase heat to medium-high and pour in white wine. Stir and simmer for about 5 minutes, reducing the liquid by half. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the sauce for later.
  5. Stir in rice and cook for 3–4 minutes, letting it toast slightly.
  6. Pour in chicken broth and remaining 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a low boil, then cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 20 minutes, stirring once or twice.
  7. Sprinkle Parmesan over the rice and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Drizzle with reserved sauce.
  8. Cover, remove from heat, and let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for a juicier variation.
  • Substitute white wine with chicken broth if preferred.
  • For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American