Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi is a savory, comforting dish combining tender chicken tenderloins sautéed to perfection, cooked with a flavorful garlic butter and white wine sauce, served over cheesy Parmesan-infused rice. It is an easy-to-make skillet recipe that brings together rich garlic, sharp Parmesan, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce
- 1 stick butter (1/2 cup)
- 2 tablespoons fresh minced garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 3 1/2 cups chicken broth
Rice and Garnish
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
- 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season and Cook Chicken: Season the chicken tenderloins evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the chicken until fully cooked through and lightly browned, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add fresh minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in red pepper flakes, salt, white wine, and chicken broth. Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce slightly, then reserve about 2 tablespoons of this sauce for later use.
- Cook the Rice: Add the uncooked rice directly to the skillet with the remaining sauce. Stir briefly to coat the rice, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid, about 18-20 minutes.
- Finish the Dish: Once the rice is tender, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the rice and stir to incorporate. Arrange the cooked chicken on top of the rice. Drizzle the reserved sauce over the chicken. Cover the skillet and let the dish stand for a few minutes to meld flavors. Garnish with additional Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Use a dry white wine like Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or Sauvignon Blanc for the best sauce flavor and avoid sweet wines.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or to accommodate dietary needs.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the chicken broth and wine are gluten-free certified.
- Letting the dish rest covered after cooking helps the flavors meld and the rice to absorb any remaining sauce.
- Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness but is optional depending on your preference.
