If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food that comes together in one pan, Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is about to become your new go-to dinner. This cozy dish features juicy, golden chicken nestled atop creamy, garlicky rice, all infused with the richness of Parmesan and a handful of pantry staples. It’s weeknight-friendly, bursting with flavor, and destined to be a hit with the whole family. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for yourself, Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice offers incredible taste and texture with minimal fuss.

Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is wonderfully straightforward. Each item plays an important role, building flavor and texture into every bite. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts create a lean, hearty base for the dish and absorb all the delicious flavors.
Olive oil: This adds a touch of richness and helps the chicken achieve that irresistible golden sear.
Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that brings depth and classic savory notes to the meal.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and is essential for properly seasoning both the chicken and the rice.
Black pepper: Adds just the right hint of warmth and mild heat.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the rice with aromatic, savory goodness.
Long-grain white rice: The foundation of the dish, long-grain rice cooks up fluffy and absorbs every drop of flavor.
Chicken broth: Using broth instead of water gives the rice extra savoriness and a rich, rounded taste.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the rice for a creamy, nutty finish.
Butter: A couple of tablespoons add silkiness and richness to the rice.
Fresh parsley (optional): Chopped parsley brightens the finished dish with color and a pop of freshness.

How to Make Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning both sides of your chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. This simple blend gives the chicken a savory flavor and sets the stage for the entire dish. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it’s the secret to delicious, well-rounded flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the chicken breasts and sear them for 4 to 5 minutes per side. You’re looking for a gorgeous golden crust and juicy, cooked-through centers. When done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep them warm and juicy.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute. The kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma, and the butter-garlic combo acts as a flavor base for the rice.

Step 4: Toast the Rice

Add the uncooked long-grain rice directly to the garlicky butter and stir for 1 to 2 minutes. Toasting the rice slightly gives it a subtle nutty flavor and helps the grains stay fluffy and separate once cooked.

Step 5: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 to 18 minutes. The rice will absorb the broth and become tender and fragrant.

Step 6: Stir in Parmesan

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This step transforms the rice into a creamy, savory masterpiece. Make sure the cheese is fully melted and evenly distributed for maximum flavor.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the cheesy rice. Cover and let everything sit for 2 to 3 minutes – this allows the flavors to mingle and the chicken to reheat gently. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like, and serve your Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice straight from the pan for a rustic, homey touch.

How to Serve Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds an inviting burst of color and a subtle herbal note. If you’re feeling extra fancy, shave a little more Parmesan on top or add a few cracks of black pepper just before serving. These simple touches make the Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice look as wonderful as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This dish is delightfully complete on its own, but if you’d like to round out your meal, pair it with steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad. The fresh veggies balance the richness of the Parmesan rice and make dinner feel truly special.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, consider slicing the chicken and fanning it over the rice for an elegant presentation. Or, scoop individual portions into bowls and top with extra herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. However you serve it, Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is guaranteed to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice a fantastic option for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This helps revive the creamy texture of the rice and keeps the chicken moist. Stir occasionally for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and add extra juiciness to Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re fully cooked through.

Is it possible to make Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, you can skip the Parmesan and butter or substitute with plant-based alternatives. The rice will have a different texture, but the garlicky flavor will still shine through.

What’s the best way to keep the rice from sticking?

Make sure your skillet is well-oiled and keep the heat on low during the simmering stage. Stir occasionally and let the rice sit covered after cooking to help it fluff up and release from the pan.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Peas, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms would be delicious additions. Just stir them in with the rice during the last few minutes of cooking for extra color, texture, and nutrition.

How can I make this dish even creamier?

For a richer, creamier Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice, stir in a splash of heavy cream with the Parmesan cheese. It takes the dish to the next level of comfort food bliss!

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to elevate your weeknight dinner routine, Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is the answer. Every bite is full of comforting flavors and creamy textures that make you want to go back for seconds. Give this recipe a try – your family and friends will fall in love with its irresistible charm!

Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe

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4.9 from 29 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe offers a flavorful and creamy one-pan meal ideal for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are seared and nestled into fragrant garlic-infused rice, enriched with Parmesan and butter for a comforting, satisfying dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Rice and Sauce

4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 1/4 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter

Garnish

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to infuse flavor.
Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through, ensuring juicy meat. Transfer chicken to a plate and loosely cover with foil to keep warm.
Sauté garlic and toast rice: In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the rice and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to lightly toast it, which enhances the nutty flavor.
Add chicken broth and simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits off the pan’s bottom to incorporate extra flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Incorporate Parmesan: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the rice turns creamy and well combined.
Combine chicken and rice: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet on top of the rice. Cover and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes to allow flavors to meld and heat chicken through.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish if desired, then serve warm as a delicious, hearty meal.

Notes

For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream with the Parmesan cheese.
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful option.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American