Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken

Creamy garlic butter chicken scampi with Parmesan rice brings restaurant-style comfort straight to your kitchen using simple yet bold flavors. Golden-seared chicken mingles with zesty lemon garlic sauce and creamy Parmesan rice for a dish that dazzles on weeknights and impresses for special dinners. This easy yet elegant recipe promises to satisfy anyone craving a cozy and delicious meal.

I first cooked this after a long workday needing something comforting and rich without a fuss It instantly became a family favorite and now we crave its creaminess and lively flavors when we want a treat at home.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose plump and firm cuts for the most tender bites
• Garlic: Go for fresh cloves that feel heavy and tight for that punchy flavor
• Olive oil: Use extra virgin for its fruity depth and subtle richness
• Unsalted butter: Adds velvety body and lets you control the salt level better
• Fresh lemon juice: Brightens everything Skip bottled and squeeze it fresh for zestier taste
• Chicken broth: Opt for low sodium or homemade to balance the sauce and rice
• Parmesan cheese: Choose block Parmesan you grate yourself for real nutty savory depth
• Heavy cream: Enriches the rice making it decadently creamy
• Long-grain white rice: Fluffy grains soak up all the goodness Jasmine or basmati work well too
• Fresh parsley: Lively color and herby bite Snip just before using for best flavor
• Salt and black pepper: Season generously and taste as you go
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional for subtle heat Use as much or as little as you prefer

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized strips then season all sides with salt pepper and crushed red pepper flakes if using This step ensures flavorful chicken bites that stay juicy

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high When shimmering add chicken in batches This avoids steaming Let each piece sizzle undisturbed three to four minutes per side until deep golden outside and moist inside Transfer to a plate to rest

Sauté the Garlic:

Lower the heat to medium-low Add remaining butter to the skillet When melted add minced garlic Stir constantly for about one minute just until fragrant This unlocks the aromatic flavor without burning

Deglaze with Lemon and Broth:

Pour in lemon juice and a portion of chicken broth Scrape all golden bits off the pan bottom with a wooden spoon These bits give your sauce intense flavor Let the sauce simmer three to five minutes to reduce slightly and thicken

Cook the Parmesan Rice:

In a separate saucepan combine rice with remaining chicken broth Bring to a boil over medium then reduce to low Cover and let it cook fifteen to eighteen minutes until rice is tender and brothy liquid is absorbed Fluff with a fork

Finish the Rice:

With the heat off stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese into the hot rice Mix until completely creamy and cheese is melted Taste and adjust seasoning Enjoy that rich creamy aroma

Combine and Heat:

Add the seared chicken back to the skillet with the simmering lemon garlic butter sauce Toss gently to coat every strip well Let it simmer on low for two more minutes so flavors blend and chicken heats through

Serve:

Spoon creamy Parmesan rice onto plates Top with sumptuous garlic butter chicken Use plenty of sauce Spoon extra over rice if desired Garnish with more chopped parsley and a little extra Parmesan for a beautiful finish

Pin it

I always look forward to the parmesan rice It is so creamy and soulful that my kids ask for it even by itself This recipe instantly takes me back to cozy family nights when everyone runs to the table for seconds and fights over the last chicken piece

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days The rice will soak up more sauce as it sits so add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating for best texture Warm gently on the stovetop or in short bursts in the microwave stirring often to prevent drying

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken with shrimp for a classic seafood twist If you prefer a lighter meal use half and half instead of heavy cream Leftover rotisserie chicken works well in a pinch Swap parsley for fresh basil or chives Use brown rice if you want more fiber and bite

Serving Suggestions

This dish stands on its own but pairs beautifully with buttered green beans simple roasted asparagus or a crisp lemony salad On special occasions I serve it with crusty bread to mop up all that lovely sauce For a deeper garlicky punch add a garlic confit drizzle before serving

Cultural and Historical Context

Chicken scampi is inspired by Italian American flavors echoing the famous shrimp scampi with its garlicky lemon butter sauce While rice is not traditional in scampi classic Italian cooking celebrates creamy risotto and Parmesans so this pairing bridges homestyle comfort with a restaurant flair

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

→ What's the best way to prevent the garlic from burning?

Keep the heat at medium-low and stir the garlic constantly while sautéing. You can also add a tablespoon of chicken broth to the pan to help prevent burning.

→ Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is recommended for its flavor and melting properties. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.

→ How can I make the sauce thicker?

Allow the sauce to simmer for a longer period to reduce and thicken naturally. You can also whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) for a quicker thickening effect.

→ Is there a good vegetarian option for this dish?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with pan-fried or grilled tofu or tempeh. You could also add sliced mushrooms to the garlic butter sauce.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken and rice in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to the chicken if it seems dry.