If you’re craving a dish that’s both elegant and comforting, look no further than Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice. This recipe combines succulent strips of chicken in a zesty, garlic-infused sauce with a side of aromatic garlic Parmesan rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings a touch of sophistication to your table with minimal effort.Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips: Tender chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, offering a light and juicy texture that absorbs the flavors of the scampi sauce beautifully.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and adding a hint of richness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a robust garlic flavor that’s central to the scampi sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the garlic.
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional): Enhances the sauce with a subtle complexity; can be omitted if you prefer.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For a rich and silky finish to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal note and a pop of color.
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: Provides a fluffy base for the Parmesan and garlic flavors.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Infuses the rice with a savory taste and helps it cook perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic garlic flavor to the rice.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives the rice a creamy, cheesy richness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: For seasoning and balancing the flavors.
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds a fresh touch and enhances the dish’s presentation.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Scampi
- Season and Sauté the Chicken:
- Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken strips and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Scampi Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not burned.
- Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and white wine (if using). Stir to combine and deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Finish the Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the butter until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet, coating them in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through.
- Sprinkle in the chopped fresh parsley and give everything a final stir.
2. Cook the Garlic Parmesan Rice
- Prepare the Rice:
- In a medium saucepan, heat a small amount of olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Cook the Rice:
- Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat the rice with the garlic and oil.
- Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish the Rice:
- Once the rice is cooked, remove it from heat and fluff with a fork.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the rice with chopped fresh parsley for added color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
- On a Plate: Serve the chicken scampi over a bed of garlic Parmesan rice for a complete meal. The creamy rice pairs perfectly with the flavorful chicken and sauce.
- With a Side Salad: Complement the dish with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- With Garlic Bread: For extra indulgence, serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious scampi sauce.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Scampi and Rice
- Chicken Cooking Tip: Make sure to not overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even browning.
- Rice Texture: Fluff the rice with a fork after cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy and to separate the grains.
- Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute with additional chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for added acidity.
Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delectable dish that brings together tender chicken strips and a rich, flavorful sauce with creamy, cheesy rice. Whether you’re preparing it for a special dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. With its harmonious blend of flavors and easy preparation, it’s a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal. Enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends and savor every delicious bite!
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