
Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a go to dinner in my house because it is simple enough for weeknights but flavorful enough to impress guests. The buttery chicken pairs perfectly with a creamy rice that is loaded with garlic and Parmesan. This is one of those meals I reach for when everyone is hungry and I want to see clean plates at the table.
I first whipped this up on a busy weeknight when I had leftover cooked rice but now it is on steady rotation because everyone requests those leftovers for lunch the next day.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose fresh chicken for best texture and slice them evenly for fast cooking
- Olive oil: Good extra virgin olive oil gives the chicken golden color and nice fruity notes
- Butter: Unsalted lets you control the seasoning and adds that restaurant style richness
- Fresh garlic: Go for plump unblemished cloves and mince them fine for maximum aroma
- Chicken broth: Choose a low sodium broth for better seasoning control homemade if you have it is great
- White wine: Optional but adds depth a dry variety works best and make sure it tastes good enough to drink
- Lemon juice and zest: Always use fresh lemons never bottled for brightness and balance
- Italian seasoning: A mix of dried basil oregano and thyme boosts the sauce use a brand that smells fresh
- Long grain white rice: Look for unbroken grains jasmine works especially well for that fluffy texture
- Heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess try to use one with no additives for pure flavor
- Parmesan cheese: Buy a wedge and grate it yourself for best melt and sharpness avoid pre-shredded
- Parsley: For garnish fresh parsley brings color and a clean finish at the end
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Rice:
- Add rice and minced garlic to a saucepan with chicken broth and a pinch of salt Simmer on low heat covered about fifteen minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender Remove from heat
- Make the Creamy Base:
- Stir in heavy cream Parmesan cheese and butter until the cheese melts and rice is creamy Cover and keep warm off the heat to thicken slightly
- Sauté the Chicken:
- Slice chicken breasts into strips or medallions Pat them dry and season well Heat olive oil and some butter in a large skillet over medium high Once hot add chicken in a single layer Cook for about three minutes per side until golden and cooked through Remove chicken and set aside
- Build the Scampi Sauce:
- Turn the heat down to medium and add more butter Sauté minced garlic until fragrant Watch closely so it does not burn Add chicken broth white wine if using lemon juice lemon zest and Italian seasoning Simmer for about three to five minutes to reduce slightly
- Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Return chicken to the skillet Coat with sauce and simmer another three minutes so the flavors marry and everything is well glazed
- Plate and Garnish:
- Spoon creamy garlic Parmesan rice onto plates Top with saucy chicken pieces and plenty of fresh parsley Serve immediately

Parmesan is my favorite part because the smell of it melting right into the cream always brings the family running to the kitchen On my daughter’s birthday she asked for extra cheese on her portion and said it tasted like a fancy restaurant meal
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days Store chicken and rice in separate containers if possible to keep the rice creamy To reheat sprinkle a little extra broth or water over the rice cover and microwave gently stirring halfway If the chicken starts to dry add a pat of butter before reheating on the stovetop
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to skip the wine just use extra chicken broth and add a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness You can substitute half and half for the heavy cream but the finished rice will be less rich For cheese lovers a mix of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano brings extra flavor If you need this fully dairy free use olive oil only and coconut cream with nutritional yeast in the rice
Serving Suggestions
Serve this with a simple green salad and a glass of crisp white wine If you like heat a sprinkle of red pepper flakes over the finished dish adds a fun kick Garlic bread or roasted asparagus make great sides For a family style meal pile everything onto a big platter and let everyone dig in

Cultural Context
Chicken Scampi takes its inspiration from Italian American restaurant classics but swaps shrimp for chicken making it approachable for picky eaters The creamy garlic Parmesan rice is similar to risotto but easier and more consistent It is a great gateway dish for anyone wanting to cook more Italian American favorites at home
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I make the rice extra creamy?
Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese at the end of cooking to achieve a luscious, creamy texture.
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs add extra juiciness and work well in this dish. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
- → Is there a substitute for white wine?
Replace white wine with additional chicken broth to keep the flavors bright without alcohol.
- → What herbs can I use for garnish?
Fresh parsley adds color and freshness, but basil or chives also complement the flavors nicely.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.
- → Can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a bit of heat.