If you’re craving a cozy dinner that balances bold garlic, rich Parmesan, and tender chicken, look no further than this Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice. This dish blends the zesty brightness of classic scampi with the comforting allure of a creamy rice base. It feels restaurant-worthy but is entirely achievable at home.

Each bite of this meal promises tender chicken bites seared to perfection, coated in a garlicky, buttery glaze, and nestled over a bed of rice that’s luxuriously creamy and speckled with Parmesan. It’s a recipe that turns a weeknight dinner into something memorable without demanding much from your pantry.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

You’ll love this dish for its perfect balance of flavors: tangy lemon, nutty Parmesan, and that satisfying garlic kick. It combines the elegance of a classic Italian scampi with the heartiness of a creamy risotto-like rice. Plus, it all comes together in one skillet, making cleanup simple and dinner seamless.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal here. They cook quickly, absorb all that garlicky-lemony flavor beautifully, and stay tender when simmered in the creamy sauce. You could also use chicken thighs for extra richness if preferred, but keep in mind they might require a slightly longer cooking time to achieve the right texture.

Ingredients for the Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

This dish is all about rich, savory flavors balanced with brightness. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken breasts
Garlic cloves
Butter
Olive oil
Chicken broth
Parmesan cheese
Heavy cream
Lemon juice
White rice
Salt and pepper
Parsley

Each ingredient builds layers of flavor, from the seared chicken to the garlicky, cheesy rice.

How To Make the Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and a bit of butter in a skillet and sear the chicken until golden on the outside and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same pan, add more butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. This step sets the stage for the deep scampi flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Stir in the rice and toast it slightly in the garlic butter, then pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and let cook until the rice is tender and liquid absorbed.

Step 4: Make it Creamy

Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan until smooth and creamy. Add lemon juice for a fresh note.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, letting it soak in the flavors. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot and melty.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Don’t rush the garlic. Letting it slowly turn golden releases a sweetness that balances the lemon and cheese. Also, avoid overcooking the rice — it should be soft but not mushy. Adding cream and cheese before the rice is fully cooked can throw off the texture, so wait until it’s perfectly tender.

Serving and Storing Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

This recipe generously serves 4 people and makes a satisfying main dish all on its own. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen up the rice and bring it back to life.

What to Serve With Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice?

Garlic Bread

Golden and crisp, it’s perfect for scooping up the creamy rice and buttery sauce.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds a bit of crunch and a healthy green side to balance the rich rice.

Caesar Salad

Its crisp romaine, salty Parmesan, and tangy dressing make a refreshing contrast.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

The sweetness of the glaze complements the garlic notes beautifully.

Green Beans Almondine

Lightly sautéed green beans with toasty almonds offer a nutty freshness.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, basil, and juicy tomatoes are always a win with scampi flavors.

Lemon Asparagus

The citrus ties in perfectly with the lemon in the chicken.

A Glass of Chardonnay

This white wine complements the creamy and garlicky elements without overpowering them.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this creamy garlic scampi rice is your kind of comfort food, you’ll want to try these too:

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the garlic? Did you mix in extra cheese or a touch of chili flakes?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other cook better.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Nina Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is a dinner that delivers on both comfort and flavor. It feels indulgent without being complicated and satisfies with every creamy, zesty, savory bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing friends, this dish always hits the mark.

Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Ingredients for the Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice