
This luxurious chicken scampi with garlic Parmesan rice transforms ordinary chicken into a restaurant-worthy meal with minimal effort. The buttery garlic sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken strips while the creamy Parmesan rice absorbs all those wonderful flavors for a complete dinner that looks and tastes impressive.
I first made this dish when I needed to impress my in-laws without spending all day in the kitchen. They were so amazed by the depth of flavor that my mother-in-law asked for the recipe before dessert was even served. Now it's my go-to when I want something that feels special without requiring special skills.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Thin strips allow for quick, even cooking and better sauce absorption
- Olive oil: Provides the perfect base for sautéing with a mild flavor that complements the garlic
- Fresh garlic cloves: Fresh provides significantly more flavor than jarred garlic; look for firm bulbs with tight skin
- Chicken broth: Forms the base of the sauce; choose low sodium to control saltiness
- Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the entire dish and balances the richness; always use fresh, not bottled
- White wine: Adds complexity to the sauce; a dry variety like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works best
- Unsalted butter: Creates the silky texture that defines scampi sauce; use European style for extra richness
- Fresh parsley: Adds color and a fresh herbal note; select bunches with bright green leaves
- For the Garlic Parmesan Rice
- Long grain white rice: Provides the perfect texture that stays fluffy; rinse before cooking for best results
- Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with flavor from the beginning
- Garlic: Creates aromatic foundation
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated provides the best flavor and meltability; avoid pre-shredded
- Salt and pepper: Always taste before adding more as the broth and cheese contain salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Chicken:
- Season chicken strips generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of flavor. Take a moment to ensure even coverage, allowing the seasoning to adhere to the slightly moist surface of the meat.
- Sauté the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet until it shimmers but does not smoke. Add the seasoned chicken strips in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Allow them to cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until a golden crust forms before flipping. Cook another 3-4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The chicken should have a beautiful golden exterior while remaining juicy inside.
- Create the Scampi Sauce:
- Remove chicken to a plate and add minced garlic to the same skillet. Cook for exactly one minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant and just barely start to turn golden. Immediately add chicken broth, lemon juice, and wine (if using). Use a wooden spoon to scrape all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan; these contain concentrated flavor that will elevate your sauce.
- Finish the Sauce:
- Allow the liquid to simmer for 3-4 minutes, reducing by about one-third. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon but still remain pourable. Add butter and swirl the pan gently until completely melted and incorporated, creating a silky emulsion. This technique creates the signature scampi sauce texture.
- Prepare the Rice:
- While the chicken cooks, combine rice, chicken broth, and minced garlic in a medium saucepan. Bring to a full boil, then immediately reduce to the lowest possible heat. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and allow to cook undisturbed for 15-20 minutes. The steam inside the pot does the work, so resist the urge to peek.
- Complete the Rice:
- Once the liquid has been fully absorbed, remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish steaming and ensures perfect texture. Gently fluff with a fork, then fold in the Parmesan cheese, which will melt into the hot rice, creating a creamy consistency.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the chicken to the scampi sauce, turning to coat each piece thoroughly. Mound the Parmesan rice on plates, creating a bed for the chicken. Arrange chicken strips over the rice and spoon additional sauce over both components. Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley, which adds color, brightness, and a final layer of flavor.

Garlic is truly the star ingredient here and I've learned that the method of preparing it drastically affects the final flavor. I crush my garlic cloves with the side of my knife before mincing, which releases more of the allicin compound responsible for garlic's powerful flavor. My grandmother taught me this technique and insisted it makes all the difference between a good scampi and a memorable one.
Make-Ahead Options
The chicken and sauce can be prepared up to two days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat gently in a covered skillet adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to revive the sauce. The rice is best made fresh but can also be prepared ahead and reheated with a tablespoon of water to restore moisture. This makes the recipe excellent for busy weeknights when time is limited but you still want something special.
Perfect Pairings
This chicken scampi calls for simple sides that complement without competing. A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette provides refreshing contrast to the rich main dish. Steamed asparagus or broccoli also work beautifully and can be prepared while the rice cooks. For a truly indulgent meal, serve with warm crusty bread for soaking up every last bit of the garlic butter sauce. My family particularly enjoys a chilled glass of the same white wine used in the sauce to complete the dining experience.

Customization Ideas
The basic recipe provides an excellent foundation that can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. For a lighter version, substitute olive oil for the butter in the sauce and use brown rice instead of white for the base. Seafood lovers can replace chicken with large shrimp or scallops, reducing the cooking time accordingly. Vegetarians might enjoy substituting firm tofu or simply increasing the vegetables by adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. The versatile garlic sauce works beautifully with any protein choice, making this recipe endlessly adaptable.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute white wine in the scampi sauce?
Yes, you can use additional chicken broth or a splash of white vinegar and lemon juice as a substitute for white wine.
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Make sure not to overcook the chicken strips. Cook them just until golden brown and remove them from the skillet to prevent drying out.
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and amount of liquid as brown rice requires more time to cook and absorb liquid.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
This dish can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain flavor and texture.
- → What can I pair with this meal?
This dish pairs well with a light green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete, balanced meal.
- → What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
You can use Pecorino Romano or a plant-based Parmesan alternative for a similar flavor profile.