Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe

Few dishes are as comforting and satisfying as Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice. This beloved recipe deftly combines golden-seared chicken breasts with irresistibly creamy parmesan-studded rice, all infused with the warmth of fresh garlic and a touch of Italian seasoning. The whole meal is cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze while delivering maximum flavor and that dreamy “just one more bite” effect. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to a cozy night in, Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice always delivers a delicious and memorable result.

Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how you can achieve such incredible flavor with simple, easy-to-find ingredients. Each component is chosen to complement the others, building layers of taste, texture, and aroma in every forkful.

  • Chicken breasts: Lean and juicy, they brown beautifully and serve as the hearty protein centerpiece of this dish.
  • Olive oil: Helps to sear the chicken, adding a subtle richness while keeping everything from sticking.
  • Unsalted butter: Divided for both searing and giving the rice an irresistibly creamy texture and buttery flavor.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for that signature aroma and bold flavor punch.
  • Long-grain white rice: Absorbs all the savory flavors in the pan, turning fluffy and delicious.
  • Low-sodium chicken broth: Infuses the rice with depth and means you can control the saltiness perfectly.
  • Parmesan cheese: The cheese melts into the rice, creating a creamy texture with a sharp, nutty edge.
  • Salt: Seasons every element, so the overall dish tastes vibrant, not bland.
  • Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat and balance to the other seasonings.
  • Italian seasoning: Brings a subtle, herby note that pairs perfectly with garlic and parmesan.
  • Fresh parsley: Sprinkled on at the end, parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, light finish to your plate.

How to Make Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry, which helps them sear to a gorgeous golden brown. Generously season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning—this simple step infuses the chicken with flavor that’s detectable in every bite. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, combine olive oil and one tablespoon of butter. Once the pan is hot and the butter is melted, add the chicken. Sear each side for about 5–6 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has that irresistible crust. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside for now.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Keep all those tasty pan juices—don’t clean your skillet! Lower the heat to medium, and melt the remaining two tablespoons of butter. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. This is the flavor base for Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice, so enjoy that incredible garlicky aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Stir the uncooked long-grain rice into the garlicky butter. Give it a quick toast, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes, so the grains get coated and start to take on a light golden color. Toasting the rice is a secret step that adds nutty flavor and keeps the final dish from turning mushy.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—those are pure flavor! Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then immediately lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let the rice simmer on low for 18–20 minutes. By the end, the grains will be tender and fluffy, each one infused with garlicky, savory goodness.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan

Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir through the hot rice until it melts, creating a creamy, luxurious texture. At this stage, the kitchen smells absolutely mouthwatering—good luck resisting a taste!

Step 6: Return the Chicken and Serve

Nestle the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some rice and sauce over the top to warm them through. Finally, sprinkle everything with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Your Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is ready to be served piping hot!

How to Serve Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Finish off your Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice with a flurry of chopped fresh parsley or even a few extra shavings of parmesan right before serving. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of lemon zest or a few turns of freshly ground black pepper can really make the flavors pop and add that restaurant-quality touch at home.

Side Dishes

This dish stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a simple green side salad tossed in lemony vinaigrette or some steamed green beans or broccoli makes for a perfect, balanced meal. Crusty bread is a delicious option too—great for mopping up any cheesy garlic rice left on the plate!

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, try slicing the chicken breasts and fanning them over a bed of garlic parmesan rice, letting the creamy grains peek through. If you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping, you can assemble individual bowls layered with rice, sliced chicken, and garnishes for a build-your-own dinner party vibe. This lively presentation invites everyone to dig in and appreciate the beautiful simplicity of Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), allow the food to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days when refrigerated. Keeping the chicken and rice together helps maintain the flavors, so you’re never sacrificing taste.

Freezing

To freeze, portion the chicken and rice into individual airtight freezer-safe containers. This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture, and enjoy a homemade comfort meal on busy nights.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice again, gently reheat it in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen up the rice, if needed. You can also microwave it in short bursts, covered, pausing to stir so everything heats evenly without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe, giving you a juicier, more flavorful dish. Just follow the same steps, but extend the cooking time by a couple of minutes if the thighs are on the thicker side.

Can I prepare Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice ahead of time?

Yes! This dish can be made ahead, stored in the refrigerator, and then reheated gently. The flavors actually deepen a bit after a day, making leftovers even more crave-worthy.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely. Just ensure the chicken broth you use is certified gluten-free and you’ll be able to enjoy this Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice without any concerns.

What’s the best way to add vegetables?

You can stir in chopped spinach, frozen peas, or even steamed broccoli florets during the last 5 minutes of the rice’s cooking time. The extra veggies turn this into a one-pan complete meal with minimal effort.

How do I keep the chicken juicy?

The key is not to overcook the chicken breasts. Sear on medium-high heat until just cooked through, then let them rest while the rice cooks. Returning them to the pan at the end lets them warm up without drying out, ensuring every bite stays tender.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving an easy, cozy meal that feels special and delivers every time, you can’t go wrong with Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice. With its creamy texture, perfectly seasoned chicken, and bold garlic-parmesan flavor, this is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try soon and watch everyone at your table fall in love!

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Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe

Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe


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4.7 from 16 reviews

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

Description

This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe is a delightful one-pan meal that combines tender chicken breasts with flavorful garlic Parmesan rice. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Rice:

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear the chicken in a skillet until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside.
  2. Make the Garlic Parmesan Rice: In the same skillet, cook minced garlic in butter. Add rice and toast until coated. Pour in broth, bring to a boil, then simmer until rice is tender. Stir in Parmesan cheese until creamy.
  3. Finish and Serve: Return chicken to the pan to warm through. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the rice before adding broth.
  • This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a side salad.
  • Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier option.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with rice
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 620 mg
  • Fat: 17 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

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