Golden-seared chicken bites glazed in a rich garlic butter sauce, layered over creamy Parmesan rice, make this Chicken Scampi a dinner you’ll want on repeat. This recipe takes simple ingredients and transforms them into something irresistibly comforting with a restaurant-quality finish. The buttery sauce is loaded with fresh herbs and red pepper flakes for a little kick, balanced perfectly by the creamy, cheesy rice base.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or satisfy your weeknight cravings, this dish brings the best of bold flavor and creamy comfort together. It’s fast, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, especially when served with a side of roasted veggies or a crisp green salad.

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

One-pan wonder: The chicken and sauce come together quickly in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Deep flavor payoff: The garlic butter sauce is rich, vibrant, and finished with a touch of lemon and spice.
Creamy rice perfection: The Parmesan rice is luscious and cheesy, a perfect contrast to the zesty chicken.
Crowd-pleasing: This is the kind of meal that wins over picky eaters and foodies alike.
Meal prep friendly: Leftovers taste just as amazing the next day.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin, gather the right tools for efficiency and better results:

Heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan: This is key to getting that golden crust on the chicken while evenly distributing heat for the sauce.
Medium saucepan: Essential for preparing the Parmesan rice to a creamy, smooth consistency.
Sharp chef’s knife: For clean, even chicken bites that cook uniformly.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Helps stir the sauce without scratching your pans.
Microplane or fine grater: Perfect for freshly grating Parmesan, which melts better than pre-shredded.

Having everything prepped ahead of time (mise en place) will help you flow smoothly from searing to saucing to plating. This dish comes together fast, so being organized pays off!

Ingredients for the Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Chicken breast or thighs: Tender and juicy, these form the flavorful foundation.
Garlic: Adds depth and bold aroma to both the chicken and rice.
Parmesan cheese: Aged, salty, and rich, it gives the rice its creamy body.
Butter: The backbone of the scampi sauce, delivering richness.
Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken and adds a subtle earthiness.
Red pepper flakes: Brings a gentle heat that balances the richness.
Parsley (fresh or dried): Brightens the final dish and gives it a pop of green.
Chicken broth: Enhances the rice and keeps it savory and moist.
Milk or cream: Used in the rice to achieve that ultra-creamy texture.
Salt and black pepper: For seasoning every layer of flavor.
Lemon juice (optional): Adds zing and elevates the butter sauce.

How To Make the Chicken Scampi with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season chicken chunks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and half the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and sear until golden brown on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in red pepper flakes and parsley, then deglaze with a splash of lemon juice or chicken broth. Simmer for 2 minutes.

Step 3: Return Chicken and Coat

Add the cooked chicken back to the pan and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and flavors meld.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Rice

In a separate saucepan, bring chicken broth and milk (or cream) to a simmer. Stir in rice and cook covered until tender. Fold in freshly grated Parmesan and a pinch of garlic. Stir continuously until rich and creamy.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Spoon a generous bed of creamy rice onto each plate and top with hot chicken and sauce. Garnish with extra parsley or Parmesan if desired.

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

This meal is best served immediately, piping hot, with an extra drizzle of the garlic butter sauce over the top. For a well-rounded plate, pair it with roasted green beans, sautéed spinach, or even a light cucumber salad.

To store leftovers, place them in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The rice reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up. The chicken stays tender and flavorful even after reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and even more flavorful. Just trim the excess fat for a cleaner bite.

How spicy is this dish?

The red pepper flakes give it a gentle kick. If you’re spice-sensitive, simply reduce the amount. Or skip it for a totally mild experience.

What kind of rice should I use?

Long-grain white rice or jasmine works best for a creamy texture. Avoid instant rice for this recipe.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use plant-based butter and coconut milk or oat milk, and skip or substitute the Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese.

Can this be prepped ahead of time?

You can cook the rice and chicken separately ahead of time and store them. When ready to serve, reheat and combine with fresh garlic butter sauce.

Does this freeze well?

It’s not ideal for freezing due to the creamy rice, which can change texture. But it stores great in the fridge for several days.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you’re loving this chicken scampi, don’t miss these comforting and flavorful dishes next:

Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps – for something handheld and loaded with flavor.
Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce – crispy and creamy all in one.
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders – zesty and oven-baked.
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese – ultimate comfort food in a bowl.
Tzatziki Chicken Veggie Naan Pizza – for a Mediterranean twist.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra garlic? Try a squeeze of lemon? I love hearing how you make these dishes your own.

For more comfort food inspiration, check out my daily kitchen adventures over on Pinterest @ Americanrecipesbyheart.