Dinner

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi with Rice Recipe

ByMarina Montclair November 21, 2025November 21, 2025

Introduction

Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is a comforting one-pan meal that combines tender chicken breasts with rich, flavorful rice. This dish is perfect for a satisfying dinner that feels special yet is simple to prepare.

A white plate holds a bed of fluffy white rice with a slightly glossy texture, topped with a generous layer of golden-brown grilled chicken pieces that appear juicy and tender. The chicken is sprinkled with finely chopped herbs and small bits of red chili, adding green and red accents. The rice underneath has some light sauce pooling around it with a mix of yellow and green hues. The photo is taken on a white marbled surface, and the lighting highlights the steam rising from the hot dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breasts
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup long-grain white rice
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and sear chicken until golden brown, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Lower heat slightly and add butter to the skillet. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Add rice and stir to coat it in the garlic butter mixture.
Step 5: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
Step 6: Bring mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook over low heat for 18–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender.
Step 7: Stir in Parmesan cheese and lemon juice.
Step 8: Return seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice. Cover and heat for 5 more minutes.
Step 9: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken with a bit of garlic and lemon juice before cooking.
You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Use low-sodium chicken broth if you want to control the saltiness.
Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter adds a subtle spicy kick.
Fresh basil or thyme can be added as alternative herbs to parsley.

Storage

Store leftover chicken scampi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain creaminess.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a dish with two layers: the bottom layer is a bed of fluffy white rice with a light sprinkling of green herbs, and the top layer consists of golden-brown grilled chicken pieces seasoned with green herbs and small bits of red chili, giving a fresh and spicy look. The chicken pieces appear juicy with a slightly crispy texture on the outside. The dish is served on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. The overall colors are warm and inviting with a mix of white, golden brown, green, and red. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly and check for doneness before serving.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before cooking with the rice?

Searing the chicken adds a nice golden crust and enhances the flavor. While you can skip this step, the dish will be less flavorful and the texture of the chicken might be softer.