Experience tender golden chicken paired with lusciously creamy garlic-Parmesan rice, enhanced by bright lemon juice and zest. In just one skillet, olive oil and butter create a flavorful base, while aromatic garlic and zesty citrus mingle with each grain of long-grain rice. Finished with smooth cream and plenty of Parmesan, each bite delivers rich comfort balanced by the freshness of parsley. A satisfying meal that brings together savory and tangy notes, perfect for everyday dinners yet elegant enough for guests. Serve with lemon wedges for extra brightness at the table.
Chicken scampi with creamy garlic parmesan rice is a weeknight hero in my kitchen when I crave garlic parmesan indulgence and something bright from fresh lemon. The tender chicken seared with herbs folds into buttery rice that soaks up all the pan juices, making every forkful totally irresistible. Even my fussiest eater devours it without a complaint.
I stumbled on this recipe trying to make the most of what I had in my fridge. Now it is a dinner I repeat when friends or family drop by and I want to impress without stress.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Bite-sized pieces ensure even cooking and juicy bites
- Olive oil: For a golden sear and rich flavor use a fresh bottle for the best taste
- Unsalted butter: Brings a classic scampi richness and soft texture
- Italian seasoning: For deep herby flavor check your blend for freshness with a good sniff
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional but brings a gentle kick
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for coaxing maximum flavor from chicken and rice
- Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic is key for that deep warm aroma
- Lemon: For both zest and juice which deliver an unbeatable brightness try to use unwaxed lemons if possible
- Long-grain white rice: Grains stay fluffy and do not get sticky
- Chicken broth: Deepens the flavor and keeps rice tender use low-sodium if you can
- Heavy cream: Adds silkiness and a true creamy finish
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Salty nutty sharpness brings the dish together buy a block and grate for best melt and flavor
- Fresh parsley: For an herbaceous bright finish
- Extra lemon wedges: For serving add even more zest at the table
