Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a bright and tasty dish that brings together tender chicken, garlic, lemon, and a touch of butter for a classic scampi flavor. The…

By Julia • December 19, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

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Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a bright and tasty dish that brings together tender chicken, garlic, lemon, and a touch of butter for a classic scampi flavor. The chicken is cooked just right and served alongside warm, creamy rice infused with parmesan cheese and garlic, making every bite comforting and full of flavor.

I love making this meal when I want something quick but special. The garlic parmesan rice feels like a little hug on the plate—it’s cheesy without being too heavy, and the garlic adds just the right kick. One of my favorite tips is to squeeze some extra lemon over the chicken before serving to make the flavors pop even more.

This dish is perfect for dinner nights when you want something cozy but not too complicated. I like to pair it with a simple green salad or steamed veggies to keep things fresh and balanced. Every time I make this, it feels like a little celebration at home, and it’s always a hit with family and friends.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: You can use thighs or breasts here. Thighs stay juicy and flavorful, while breasts cook faster and are leaner. If you want a lighter option, turkey breast works well too.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for strong, natural flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can work but use less—start with half a teaspoon.

Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. Bottled lemon juice is okay for convenience but fresh always tastes fresher. Lime juice can be a fun twist.

White Wine or Broth: White wine adds depth but chicken broth is a great non-alcoholic substitute. Use a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for the best flavor.

Parmesan Cheese: Real Parmesan adds nuttiness and creaminess. Pecorino Romano is a saltier alternative. For low-dairy diets, nutritional yeast offers a cheesy feel.

How Do I Make Perfect Garlic Parmesan Rice Every Time?

Cooking flavorful rice requires attention to detail. Here’s what works best:

• Sauté Garlic First: Start by melting butter and lightly cooking garlic until fragrant but not browned—about 1 minute.
• Toast the Rice: Stir rice in the garlic butter before adding liquid. This coats the grains and helps keep them separate and fluffy.
• Use Broth for Flavor: Cooking rice in chicken broth, rather than plain water, adds savory depth.
• Don’t Lift the Lid: After boiling, keep heat low and cover tightly. Avoid peek until the rice is done to trap steam and cook evenly.
• Stir in Parmesan Last: Mix cheese after cooking so it melts evenly without clumping.

This method gives you rice that’s soft, tasty, and perfectly cheesy every time.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet – perfect for cooking the chicken evenly and making the scampi sauce right in the pan.
• Medium saucepan – great for cooking the garlic parmesan rice without sticking or burning.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – lets you stir rice and sauce gently without scratching your pans.
• Measuring cups and spoons – help you get the right amounts of broth, butter, and seasonings for best flavor.
• Knife and cutting board – for chopping garlic, parsley, and cutting chicken into pieces.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap chicken for shrimp to make a classic shrimp scampi with garlicky Parmesan rice. It cooks fast and adds a nice seafood touch.
• Add sautéed spinach or asparagus for extra green veggies that pair well with lemon and garlic flavors.
• Stir in red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat when you want a spicier version.
• Mix in sun-dried tomatoes with the rice for a sweet, tangy burst that complements the savory chicken and cheese.

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken Scampi:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
• 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Garnish:

• Lemon wedges
• Additional fresh parsley

How Much Time Will You Need?

It takes about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients, 20 minutes to cook the rice and chicken, and a few minutes to finish the sauce and assemble. Plan for about 30-35 minutes total from start to finish—perfect for a tasty weeknight meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice:

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it smells wonderful but hasn’t browned yet. Then, add the rice and stir to coat each grain with the garlic butter. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper, cover again, and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken Scampi:

While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside. Lower the heat to medium, then add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

3. Make the Scampi Sauce and Finish:

Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) and fresh lemon juice into the skillet, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to lift all the tasty browned bits. Stir in the butter and let the sauce bubble and thicken for 2 minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce, coating all the pieces well.

4. Serve:

Plate a generous scoop of the garlic Parmesan rice, top with the chicken scampi, and drizzle any extra sauce over the dish. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and lemon wedges for a fresh burst of flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?

Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better browning.

Can I Substitute the White Wine in the Sauce?

Absolutely! If you prefer to avoid alcohol, use chicken broth instead. It keeps the sauce flavorful while giving a similar depth without the wine’s acidity.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the rice feels dry.

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice and cook the chicken ahead, then store them separately. Reheat both gently and toss the chicken in the sauce fresh before serving to keep everything flavorful.