Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice (Mediterranean-Style)

Description

This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice features tender pan-seared chicken in a buttery lemon-garlic sauce, finished with herbs and a splash of broth, then served over fluffy rice infused with garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan. It’s bright yet indulgent, easy enough for weeknights, and fancy enough for guests—pure Mediterranean comfort.

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Chicken Scampi

• 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets or strips

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 3 tbsp butter

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup chicken broth

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Zest of ½ lemon

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For Garlic Parmesan Rice

• 1 cup long-grain rice (basmati or jasmine works great)

• 2 cups chicken broth or water

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt, to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the Garlic Parmesan Rice

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Stir in rice and toast for 1 minute.

4. Add broth and salt. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer 15 minutes.

5. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.

6. Stir in Parmesan and cover to keep warm.

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2. Cook the Chicken

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

4. Remove chicken and set aside.

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3. Make the Scampi Sauce

1. Lower heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet.

2. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds.

3. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest.

4. Simmer 2–3 minutes, scraping up the flavorful bits.

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4. Combine

1. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over it.

2. Simmer 2 minutes until glossy and well coated.

3. Sprinkle with parsley.

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5. Serve

• Spoon garlic Parmesan rice onto plates.

• Top with chicken and drizzle generously with scampi sauce.

• Finish with extra Parmesan or lemon wedges if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Dish

• 🧄 Bold garlic-lemon flavor

• 🧀 Creamy, savory rice without cream

• 🍋 Mediterranean-inspired freshness

• ⏱ Ready in about 35 minutes

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Q & A

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs are juicier—just cook a little longer.

Q: Is this spicy?
Not at all, but red pepper flakes add a nice kick.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
Use all olive oil and skip Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

Q: What vegetables go well with this?
Spinach, asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli are perfect sides.

Q: Can I make it ahead?
Rice can be made ahead; cook chicken fresh for best flavor.