Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Scampi:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup flour (for dredging)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

For the Chicken Scampi:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
   • Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Scampi Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
   • Pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using). Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, reducing slightly.
   • Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine.
   • Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, coating them with the sauce. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Finish the Dish:
   • Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:

1. Cook the Rice:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
   • Add the rice and stir to coat with the butter and garlic.
   • Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
   • Cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 18-20 minutes.
2. Finish the Rice:
   • Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
   • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

To Serve:

• Plate the Garlic Parmesan Rice and top with a chicken breast.
• Spoon some of the scampi sauce over the chicken and rice.
• Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice!