Why Make This Recipe

Southern Chicken Scampi with Creamy Parmesan Grits is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of scampi with the comfort of creamy grits. This recipe brings a southern twist to a classic dish, making it perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. The juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, and zesty lemon blend beautifully with the smooth, cheesy grits. It’s a comforting meal that feels both luxurious and homey.

How to Make Southern Chicken Scampi with Creamy Parmesan Grits

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Creamy Parmesan Grits:
  • 1 cup grits
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste

Directions

1. In a large pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add the sliced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in the chopped parsley before serving.
4. For the creamy Parmesan grits, bring chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan. Slowly whisk in the grits and reduce to a simmer.
5. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and salt to taste.
6. Serve the chicken scampi over a bed of creamy Parmesan grits.

How to Serve Southern Chicken Scampi with Creamy Parmesan Grits

Serve this dish hot, with the chicken scampi beautifully placed over the creamy Parmesan grits. You might want to garnish with extra parsley for a touch of color and flavor. It’s perfect for plate presentation at gatherings or as a comforting family meal.

How to Store Southern Chicken Scampi with Creamy Parmesan Grits

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken scampi and grits can be kept for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water or broth to the grits to help them regain their creaminess.

Tips to Make Southern Chicken Scampi with Creamy Parmesan Grits

• Ensure the chicken is cooked through but not overcooked; it should remain juicy.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Stir the grits constantly to avoid lumps and ensure they cook evenly.
• Feel free to adjust the level of seasoning to your taste.

Variation

You can add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the chicken scampi for extra color and nutrition. If you prefer a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breast for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breast. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking.

2. What if I don’t have white wine?
If you don’t have white wine, you can replace it with chicken broth or lemon juice mixed with a little water.

3. Can I make the grits ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the grits ahead of time. Just reheat them with a bit of additional cream or broth to bring them back to a creamy consistency when you’re ready to serve.