Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Deglaze and simmer: Pour in white wine (or chicken broth), lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce reduces slightly.
5. Add butter and finish: Stir in the butter until melted. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and coat with the sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Start the rice: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
7. Cook the rice: Add the rice and stir to coat. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
8. Finish the rice: Stir in Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve: Plate the garlic parmesan rice and top with the chicken scampi. Spoon extra sauce over the chicken and garnish with chopped parsley.

Variations :

• Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the skillet for extra nutrition and color.
• Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp or tofu for the chicken if preferred.
• Grain Options: Serve over orzo, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes as a hearty alternative to rice.
• Wine Upgrade: Use a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for deeper flavor in the sauce.

Tips :

• Pan Sear Perfectly: Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing chicken to ensure a proper golden crust.
• Fresh Garlic Matters: Use fresh garlic for the most robust flavor, especially in the scampi sauce.
• Cheese Quality: For best results, grate Parmesan fresh instead of using pre-shredded varieties.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Both the chicken and rice can be made ahead and reheated for a quick lunch or dinner later.