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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi Rice: Better Than Takeout

Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
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This garlic-infused Chicken Scampi transforms a restaurant favorite into a homemade masterpiece, complete with a velvety Parmesan rice that soaks up every drop of the luxurious sauce.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley
  • to taste salt and pepper

Instructions

  1. Season chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown on all sides and just cooked through.
  2. Remove chicken to a plate and reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet and once melted, add minced garlic. Sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  3. In a separate medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-18 minutes until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
  4. Meanwhile, return the chicken to the garlic butter mixture, add lemon juice, remaining Italian seasoning, and a small splash of chicken broth to create a light sauce. Toss everything together and keep warm over low heat.
  5. Once rice is cooked, stir in heavy cream and heat through for 1-2 minutes. Gradually fold in grated Parmesan until melted and creamy.
  6. Transfer the creamy Parmesan rice to a serving dish and top with the garlic chicken mixture.
  7. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

  • Temperature matters for chicken: Bring chicken to room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking.
  • Toast rice first: Briefly sauté the dry rice in a bit of butter before adding broth for nuttier flavor.
  • Control the garlic cooking: Add garlic just 30-45 seconds before you need it.
  • Finish with fresh herbs: Add chopped parsley at the very end.
  • Don’t rush the cheese melting: Remove rice from direct heat before adding Parmesan.
  • Double batch potential: This recipe scales perfectly for meal prep.

Find it online: https://www.sweethomecook.com/chicken-scampi-with-creamy-garlic-parmesan-rice/