Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Rice

This creamy chicken scampi with garlic parmesan rice brings restaurant flair straight to your dinner table in less than forty minutes. Each bite combines juicy seared chicken with ultra-creamy, fragrant garlic parmesan rice, fresh lemon, and a sprinkle of herbs. It is the perfect answer when you want cozy comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen.

I first made this when my youngest had a tough day at school and we both needed a little pick-me-up. Now it is our go-to meal for any night we want extra comfort.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: provide lean protein and soak up the seasoning nicely. Choose breasts that are firm and pink with no graying
• Olive oil: brings richness to both searing and flavoring the rice. Look for a fruity extra virgin olive oil for subtle depth
• Unsalted butter: softens the rice and gives the dish that restaurant-level silkiness
• Italian seasoning: adds fragrant herbal notes. Pick a blend with oregano and basil for true Italian aroma
• Crushed red pepper flakes: offer a gentle kick. Use sparingly for family-friendly spice or more for heat seekers
• Salt: brings all the flavors into balance. Always taste and adjust as you cook
• Black pepper: rounds out the spices with gentle heat and aroma
• Garlic cloves: infuse the dish with essential flavor. Use firm, fresh cloves and chop right before cooking
• Lemon: provides fresh zest and juice that brightens every bite. Choose lemons that feel heavy and glossy
• Long grain white rice: gives you the perfect silky, fluffy base for the sauce. Use a high-quality, name brand for consistent results
• Chicken broth: cooks the rice and boosts umami. Go for low sodium for more control over seasoning
• Heavy cream: is the secret to rich, lush texture in the rice. Choose one with at least thirty six percent milk fat for best creaminess
• Grated Parmesan cheese: melts for salty, nutty finish. Freshly grated delivers pure flavor and ease of melting
• Fresh parsley: adds a pop of color and delicate herbal notes. Choose crisp bunches with bright color

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare and Season the Chicken:

Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Pat very dry with paper towels so the edges brown well. Combine in a bowl with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Rub seasoning over all the chicken pieces and set aside to marinate briefly

Sear the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until butter is melted and foamy. Add chicken in a single layer with space between pieces. Let cook without moving for two to three minutes until golden. Flip and cook until cooked through with no pink in the center. Transfer chicken to a clean plate

Bloom the Garlic:

Reduce skillet heat to medium. Add chopped garlic and stir constantly. Let cook about thirty seconds until fragrant but not brown. This helps the garlic gently flavor the butter without burning

Deglaze and Lift Flavor:

Pour in lemon juice and add lemon zest. Scrape up the brown bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. These bits deepen the flavor of the rice

Toast the Rice:

Pour dry rice into the skillet and stir to coat in the butter, oil, and garlic. Cook for one to two minutes as you stir so all grains become glossy and a little nutty in aroma. Toasting is key for flavor and perfect texture

Simmer the Rice:

Add chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer then immediately lower heat to the lowest setting. Cover tightly with a lid and let cook undisturbed for eighteen to twenty minutes. Rice is ready when tender and all the liquid is absorbed

Cream and Cheese Time:

Remove lid and stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow to melt together so the rice is velvety and creamy. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed

Serve and Finish:

Spoon the creamy rice onto plates. Top generously with seared chicken and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Add lemon wedges on the side and an extra grating of parmesan if you like

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Storage and Reheating

Let leftovers cool completely then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the creamy rice before microwaving or gently warming on the stove. Avoid freezing since cream sauces can split after thawing

Ingredient Swaps

You can substitute boneless chicken thighs for extra moisture and flavor. Arborio rice makes the dish even creamier thanks to its extra starch. For dairy free options try coconut cream and a vegan parmesan

Serving Ideas

Serve with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some simply steamed green beans. Crusty bread makes a great side for scooping up the extra creamy rice. It is also delicious topped with a few paper thin slices of fresh basil or a drizzle of chili oil if you like a spicier kick

The Inspiration

Chicken scampi might sound Italian but the classic American restaurant version is a pure comfort dish Gently creamy with a punch of garlic and lemon it evolved from the Italian American love for butter rich pan sauces with pasta or rice When I started making it at home a touch of lemon zest made all the difference

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy and flavorful?

Pat chicken dry before seasoning. Sear it in a hot skillet until golden, and remove promptly to avoid overcooking. Resting the chicken briefly keeps it tender.

→ Why should I toast the rice before simmering?

Toasting rice in butter and oil helps deepen its flavor and creates a slightly nutty aroma, adding extra dimension to the finished dish.

→ Can I use a different type of rice?

Arborio rice will yield a creamier texture, while jasmine or basmati offer unique aromas. Adjust liquid and cook times as needed for different varieties.

→ What herbs can I add for extra flavor?

Fresh parsley is classic, but chopped basil or chives provide a lovely, bright finish. Sprinkle right before serving for best results.

→ How can I make this dish even more comforting?

Add extra Parmesan, a splash more cream, or swap in boneless chicken thighs for a richer taste and texture.