Garlic Parmesan Chicken Scampi with Rice
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Scampi:
1 lb chicken breast, sliced into strips
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup chicken broth
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Directions:
Cook the Rice: Begin by melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until fragrant. Stir in the rice, letting it toast for a minute or two to enhance its flavor.
Pour in the chicken broth, add the salt and pepper, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed. Remove from heat, then stir in the Parmesan cheese. Fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.
Prepare the Chicken: In a shallow dish, mix the flour, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken strips in this flour mixture, making sure they're well-coated.
Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using), allowing the sauce to thicken. Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat.
Serve: Plate the garlic Parmesan rice, then top with the chicken scampi. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~500 per serving