Introduction
Welcome to a delightful evening of comfort food! This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with the warm and inviting aromas of garlic and butter, making it impossible to resist. Imagine perfectly cooked chicken bathed in a rich, creamy sauce, served over fluffy rice that has been infused with hints of garlic and Parmesan. It’s a meal that brings everyone to the table, eager for a taste of the magic happening in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup rice
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice and finely chopped onion, then cover and simmer until the rice is cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth, creating a luscious sauce.
- In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the chicken scampi sauce, tossing well to ensure every noodle is coated in the creamy goodness.
- Serve the chicken scampi over a generous bed of garlic Parmesan rice, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Notes or Tips
For the perfect texture in your rice, make sure to rinse it under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch. This will help achieve that fluffy finish you desire! Additionally, feel free to swap out the white wine for chicken broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic option—it’s still incredibly delicious!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe uses a few essential techniques that elevate the dish. Sautéing the garlic gently releases its sweet aroma without burning it, which could make the dish bitter. Simmering the white wine reduces its acidity while enhancing the flavor profile, creating a balanced sauce that complements the rich cream. Lastly, tossing the cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet helps to thicken it and ensures every bite is bursting with flavor!
FAQ
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
No problem at all! Shrimp or scallops work beautifully in this recipe, just adjust the cooking time accordingly so they don’t overcook.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic Parmesan rice ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just plan to toss your pasta and sauce together right before serving for the best texture.
Conclusion
This Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to your dining table. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. So gather your loved ones, whip up this delicious recipe, and enjoy the fantastic explosion of flavors that is bound to create cherished memories around the dinner table!