Indulge in the rich flavors of chicken scampi accompanied by the creamy texture of garlic parmesan rice. This dish combines succulent shrimp and tender chicken in a buttery, garlic sauce, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and elegant. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will impress your family and friends alike.
Ingredients
– 2 boneless chicken breasts
– 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 550 calories, 34g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until combined.
- Add shrimp to the sauce and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce.
- Serve the chicken and shrimp over garlic parmesan rice, garnished with parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier option. If you prefer a lighter dish, use half and half instead of heavy cream. Shrimp can be replaced with scallops or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the flavors perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the rice may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking shrimp will make them tough; they should be just pink.
- Don’t skip the seasoning; it enhances the flavors significantly.
- Using low-quality cheese can affect the sauce’s taste.
- Ensure the garlic doesn’t burn; it can turn bitter.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Prepare the rice ahead of time for quicker meal prep.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice before serving.
- Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh touch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with chicken scampi?
This dish goes well with garlic bread, a side salad, or even roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, include red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy garlic sauce.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream?
While heavy cream gives a rich flavor, you can substitute it with milk or half-and-half for a lighter version.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine them just before serving to keep everything fresh.
Conclusion
Chicken scampi with garlic parmesan rice is a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the combination of tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and creamy rice, making every bite a true delight.
Chicken Scampi With Garlic Parmesan Rice
Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 8 oz shrimp peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until combined.
- Add shrimp to the sauce and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce.
- Serve the chicken and shrimp over garlic parmesan rice, garnished with parsley.
