Southern Chicken Scampi with Creamy Parmesan Grits

by

Introduction

Southern Chicken Scampi with Creamy Parmesan Grits is a beautiful fusion of Southern comfort and Italian-inspired flavors. Tender chicken sautéed in buttery garlic scampi sauce is served over rich, creamy grits finished with Parmesan cheese. This dish is bold, indulgent, and deeply satisfying—perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or anytime you crave soulful comfort food with a gourmet twist.

🧾 

Ingredients

For the Chicken Scampi

  • 900 g (2 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup dry white wine (or extra broth)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Creamy Parmesan Grits

  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 4 cups chicken broth or water
  • 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

  1. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
  2. Lightly dredge in flour, shaking off excess.

2. Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through.
  3. Remove chicken and set aside.

3. Make the Scampi Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter.
  2. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté briefly.
  3. Deglaze with wine and broth, scraping up browned bits.
  4. Simmer 3–4 minutes, then add lemon juice.
  5. Return chicken to pan and spoon sauce over it.

4. Make the Grits

  1. Bring broth to a boil; slowly whisk in grits.
  2. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring often, 20–25 minutes.
  3. Stir in milk, butter, and Parmesan until creamy.
  4. Season to taste.

5. Serve

  • Spoon creamy grits onto plates.
  • Top with chicken scampi and drizzle with sauce.
  • Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.

🔧 

Methods (Primary Cooking Methods)

  • Dredging method for flavorful chicken crust
  • Pan-searing method for golden texture
  • Deglazing method to build rich scampi sauce
  • Slow-simmering method for ultra-creamy grits

📜 

History

Grits are a Southern staple dating back to Native American cuisine, while scampi originates from Italian seafood dishes using garlic, butter, and wine. This recipe blends Southern comfort with Italian technique, creating a modern fusion dish rooted in tradition and flavor.

🌿 

Benefits

  • High in protein
  • Rich, comforting meal
  • Balanced textures and flavors
  • Perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners
  • Easily customizable spice level

🏗️ 

Formation (Structure & Texture)

  • Base: Smooth, creamy Parmesan grits
  • Top: Juicy, garlicky chicken
  • Finish: Buttery, lemon-bright scampi sauce

Each bite is indulgent, savory, and deeply comforting.

❤️ 

Lovers (Who Loves This Dish?)

  • Southern food lovers
  • Garlic butter fans
  • Comfort-food enthusiasts
  • Home cooks wanting something special
  • Anyone who loves creamy, savory meals

🔁 

Methods (Repeated as Requested)

  • Proper chicken dredging
  • Pan-searing for flavor
  • Sauce deglazing
  • Slow stirring of grits

🏁 

Conclusion

Southern Chicken Scampi with Creamy Parmesan Grits is the perfect marriage of comfort and elegance. Rich, flavorful, and soul-satisfying, it’s a dish that feels special while still being deeply familiar.

Leave a Comment