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
- Season chicken tenderloins with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- 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.
- 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).
- 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.
- Stir in rice and cook for 3–4 minutes to lightly toast it.
- 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.
- Sprinkle Parmesan over the rice and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Drizzle with the reserved sauce.
- 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
Easy Chicken Scampi With Garlic Parmesan Rice
- 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
- Season chicken tenderloins with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Stir in rice and cook for 3–4 minutes, letting it toast slightly.
- 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.
- Sprinkle Parmesan over the rice and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Drizzle with reserved sauce.
- 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