Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice

1. Sauté the garlic: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
2. Add the rice: Stir in the uncooked rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted.
3. Add the broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Finish the rice: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, season with salt and black pepper to taste, and add fresh parsley if using. Keep warm.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Scampi

1. Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Deglaze with wine: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook until the liquid is reduced by half, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce has slightly thickened.
5. Return the chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, along with any accumulated juices. Stir to coat the chicken in the sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
6. Finish the sauce: Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using), fresh parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed.

Step 3: Serve

1. Plate the dish: Serve the chicken scampi over a bed of garlic Parmesan rice. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
2. Enjoy: Enjoy this delicious and comforting meal!

Tips for Perfect Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

1. Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, parsley, and lemon juice add vibrant flavors to the dish.
2. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, especially the salt and pepper.
3. Rice consistency: Make sure the rice is tender and fluffy by not overcooking it.
4. Customize: Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the chicken scampi for extra nutrition and color.

Conclusion

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and tender chicken with a creamy, comforting rice. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy making and savoring this delicious meal!