If you’re craving something cozy yet sophisticated, Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice delivers comfort and elegance in one pan. Tender, golden-seared chicken bites are drenched in a buttery, garlicky sauce with fresh herbs and a hint of spice, then served over a bed of creamy rice infused with parmesan and rich cream. Every bite is a velvety burst of flavor, perfect for a family dinner or a romantic night in.

What sets this dish apart is the balance of textures and flavors. The chicken is crisp on the edges but juicy inside, the rice is soft and creamy without being mushy, and the sauce ties everything together with its bold garlicky punch and subtle parmesan undertone. Whether you’re new to cooking or looking to impress, this is one of those recipes that makes you feel like a chef in your own kitchen.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the magic of flavors, it’s important to get your setup ready. Here’s what you’ll need to prep this savory dish to perfection:

1. Cast Iron or Stainless Steel Skillet: This ensures even browning and crisping of the chicken, creating that perfect golden sear that locks in juices and flavor.

2. Medium Saucepan: Ideal for cooking your creamy garlic parmesan rice. It allows the rice to simmer slowly and absorb every bit of the broth and cheese.

3. Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: Crucial for chopping your chicken into bite-sized pieces and mincing fresh garlic and herbs. Sharp tools make for safe and efficient prep.

4. Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Helps stir without scratching your pans, especially important when you’re folding cheese into hot rice.

5. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy matters when dealing with cream, cheese, and spices. The right balance brings harmony to the final dish.

With these tools on hand, you’ll breeze through prep and cooking, making the process as enjoyable as the end result.

Ingredients for the Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Chicken Breast or Thighs (boneless, skinless): The protein star of the dish. Chicken thighs add more flavor, while breasts are leaner. Both work well with the garlicky scampi sauce.

Garlic (freshly minced): The foundation of scampi flavor. Don’t skimp—it builds boldness into the sauce and rice.

Unsalted Butter: Creates a rich base for the sauce and enhances the creamy texture of the rice.

Olive Oil: Helps to sear the chicken evenly and adds a light fruity depth to the dish.

Chicken Broth: Used in the rice to deepen the flavor. It infuses every grain with savory goodness.

Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated): Essential for a creamy, nutty flavor in the rice. Melts into the sauce for luscious richness.

Heavy Cream: Turns the rice from basic to luxurious. Adds body and smoothness to the texture.

Cooked White Rice: The comforting base of this dish. Long-grain or jasmine rice holds up best.

Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Adds a gentle heat that balances the buttery richness.

Italian Seasoning: Brings together the herbs that highlight the scampi profile.

Salt and Black Pepper: Fundamental for seasoning both the chicken and the rice to taste.

Fresh Parsley (chopped): Adds color and a fresh, bright finish to the dish.

How To Make the Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat a mix of olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then sear until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add more butter and the freshly minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a kick. Stir and simmer to blend the flavors.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Rice

In a separate saucepan, bring chicken broth to a light boil. Stir in cooked rice, heavy cream, and parmesan. Reduce heat and stir continuously until the rice becomes creamy and the cheese is fully melted.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece in the buttery, garlicky goodness.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Spoon a generous portion of creamy parmesan rice onto a plate or shallow bowl. Top with the hot scampi chicken, drizzle extra sauce, and sprinkle chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.

How to Serve and Store Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Serve this dish piping hot, straight from the skillet. The best way to enjoy it is by spooning the creamy garlic parmesan rice onto a plate and topping it generously with the juicy scampi chicken and buttery sauce. For extra flavor, garnish with a touch of extra parmesan and a fresh squeeze of lemon.

Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a full meal, and a glass of chilled white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) if you’re feeling fancy.

To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess. Microwave works too, but stir halfway through to heat evenly.

Avoid freezing, as the creamy rice may become grainy when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of rice works best for this recipe?

Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice are ideal. They hold their shape well and absorb the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Just skip the searing step and add the chicken to the garlic butter sauce to warm through before combining with the rice.

Is there a dairy-free alternative to the cream and parmesan?

Yes. For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened coconut cream or oat milk and substitute nutritional yeast for parmesan. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?

It’s mild with a gentle warmth. You can adjust the amount to your heat preference or leave it out entirely if you prefer a milder profile.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare both the chicken and rice components separately ahead of time and store them. When ready to serve, warm them up and combine for a fresh finish.

Does this recipe work for meal prep?

Yes! This dish holds up well in the fridge, and the flavors actually deepen over a day or two. Just reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice, here are some other irresistible meals you’ll want to try next:

Sweet and Savory Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe for a sticky, bold flavor profile.
Smothered Chicken and Rice Recipe if you’re craving another comfort classic with rich, homestyle vibes.

One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta for a bold, meaty twist on creamy garlic goodness.
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet to recreate restaurant-style indulgence at home.
Garlic Chicken Lo Mein if you’re in the mood for something with an Asian-inspired flair.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it any time: Follow me on Pinterest at Life With Olivia.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the garlic or lighten up the spice? Maybe you added mushrooms or spinach?

I love hearing how others bring their own twist to these comfort food favorites. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask—we’re all about helping each other cook better at home!

Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice is a rich and flavorful dish made with golden-seared chicken tossed in a buttery garlic sauce, served over a bed of creamy parmesan rice. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressive weeknight meal.

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

2. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in red pepper flakes if using. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes.

3. In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a gentle boil. Add cooked rice, heavy cream, and butter. Stir in parmesan cheese and mix continuously on low heat until creamy. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Cook together for 2 more minutes.

5. Spoon rice onto plates, top with chicken and sauce, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve hot.