Southern Chicken Scampi with Creamy Parmesan Grits

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Southern Chicken Scampi with Creamy Parmesan Grits – A Comforting Twist on a Classic

There’s something magical about Southern comfort food—rich, hearty, and full of soul. And when you pair it with the bright, garlicky flavors of Italian scampi, you get a dish that’s both familiar and refreshingly new. This Southern Chicken Scampi with Creamy Parmesan Grits is a fusion of two beloved traditions: the bold, citrusy punch of classic scampi and the buttery, cheesy warmth of stone-ground grits.

It’s a dish that feels like home and tastes like something you’d order at a cozy bistro. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a Sunday supper, or a dinner party with friends, this recipe delivers elegance and comfort in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

  • Southern meets Italian – A unique fusion of creamy grits and garlicky chicken scampi.
  • Bright and bold flavors – Lemon, garlic, and white wine bring freshness to every bite.
  • Creamy, cheesy grits – Rich with Parmesan and butter, they’re the perfect base.
  • Quick and easy – Ready in 45 minutes with simple, wholesome ingredients.
  • Perfect for entertaining – Elegant enough for guests, cozy enough for family

Ingredients

This recipe serves 4 hearty portions.

For the Chicken Scampi

  • 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 shallot, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • ¼ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Parmesan Grits

  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 4 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Tip: Use high-quality Parmesan and stone-ground grits for the best flavor and texture.

Equipment You’ll Need

  • Medium saucepan with lid
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Whisk and wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Zester or microplane
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Serving bowls

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Start the Grits

In a medium saucepan, bring:

  • 4 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 cup whole milk

to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Slowly whisk in:

  • 1 cup stone-ground grits

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Tip: Stirring helps release the starches and creates a creamier texture.

Step 2: Finish the Grits

Once the grits are thickened and tender, stir in:

  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Cover and keep warm while you prepare the chicken.

Optional: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat:

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Add:

  • 4 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 minced shallot
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Sauté for 1 minute, just until fragrant—don’t let the garlic brown.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the sliced chicken breast to the skillet.

Season with salt and pepper.

Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed for better browning.

Step 5: Deglaze and Brighten

Pour in:

  • ¼ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Simmer for 2–3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

The sauce should reduce slightly and coat the chicken.

Stir in:

  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

Remove from heat.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Spoon a generous portion of creamy Parmesan grits into each bowl.

Top with the warm chicken scampi and a drizzle of the pan sauce.

Garnish with:

  • Extra parsley
  • Lemon wedges
  • Freshly cracked black pepper

Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting, citrusy, cheesy goodness.

Time & Yield

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Calories: ~535 kcal per serving (approximate)

Tips for Success

  • Use thinly sliced chicken for faster cooking and better flavor absorption.
  • Don’t skip the lemon zest—it adds brightness and balances the richness.
  • Stir grits often to prevent clumping and ensure creaminess.
  • Deglaze the pan thoroughly to capture all the flavor from the sautéed aromatics.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature contrast.

Variations to Try

  • Shrimp Scampi Grits: Swap chicken for peeled shrimp and reduce cook time.
  • Spicy Cajun Twist: Add Cajun seasoning to the chicken and a dash of hot sauce to the grits.
  • Roasted Veggie Version: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to the scampi.
  • Cheddar Grits: Use sharp white cheddar instead of Parmesan for a Southern-style twist.
  • Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken scampi over mashed cauliflower or sautéed greens.

Perfect For…

  • Cozy weeknight dinners
  • Southern-inspired brunches
  • Date night at home
  • Holiday entertaining
  • Comfort food cravings

Final Thoughts

This Southern Chicken Scampi with Creamy Parmesan Grits is a dish that brings together the best of two worlds—Southern soul and Italian flair. It’s rich, bright, garlicky, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re new to grits or a lifelong fan, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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