Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice (Printable Version)
Tender chicken paired with creamy garlic parmesan rice, delivering rich, savory flavors in every bite.
# Everything You’ll Need:
→ Chicken Scampi
01 -
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
02 -
Salt, to taste
03 -
Black pepper, to taste
04 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
05 -
4 garlic cloves, minced
06 -
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
07 -
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
08 -
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
→ Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
09 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
10 -
1 small onion, finely chopped
11 -
3 garlic cloves, minced
12 -
1 cup Arborio rice
13 -
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
14 -
0.75 cup grated Parmesan cheese
15 -
0.25 cup heavy cream (optional)
16 -
Salt, to taste
17 -
Black pepper, to taste
# Steps to Cook:
01 -
Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through, turning as needed. Work in batches if necessary. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
02 -
Reduce heat to medium. Add additional olive oil if needed. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, avoiding browning. Stir in lemon juice to deglaze the pan and loosen browned bits.
03 -
In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds. Add Arborio rice and toast for 1–2 minutes.
04 -
Gradually add chicken broth one cup at a time, stirring frequently and allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. Continue this process for approximately 20 minutes until the rice is tender and creamy.
05 -
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream if using. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
06 -
Spoon creamy rice onto plates or bowls, top with seared chicken, drizzle any pan juices over the dish, and garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
For extra vegetables, add sautéed spinach or roasted broccoli. Substitute shrimp for chicken for a classic scampi variation.