Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is the ultimate easy dinner — juicy, golden chicken paired with buttery, garlicky rice that’s perfectly creamy and rich with Parmesan flavor. It’s one of those dishes that feels indulgent yet comes together with simple, everyday ingredients. The garlic adds depth, the Parmesan gives it a savory edge, and the chicken ties it all together in a satisfying, one-pan meal. I once made this using chicken thighs instead of breasts, and the extra richness took the dish to the next level — tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish never fails to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This one-pan Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is creamy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. The chicken is seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a garlicky, buttery sauce that infuses every grain of rice with flavor. It’s the kind of dish that tastes like comfort food but feels elegant enough for guests. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in the same skillet. If you love dishes that are both simple and satisfying, this will quickly become a regular in your dinner rotation.
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Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice – Easy One-Pan Dinner
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a flavorful one-pan meal featuring juicy, golden chicken cooked with buttery garlic rice and rich Parmesan cheese. It’s an easy, comforting dinner that’s perfect for weeknights and packed with creamy, savory goodness.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt remaining butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add uncooked rice and stir to coat it in the garlic butter for about 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15–18 minutes, until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until creamy and well combined.
- Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it on top of the rice. Cover and heat for 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, add 1/4 cup heavy cream when stirring in Parmesan.
- Use chicken thighs for more flavor and tenderness.
- Substitute brown rice, but increase broth to 2 1/2 cups and simmer for 30–35 minutes.
- Pairs perfectly with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breasts or thighs – Boneless and skinless, seasoned and seared until golden and juicy.
Olive oil and butter – The perfect combination for browning the chicken and building a flavorful sauce.
Garlic – Freshly minced, the star of this dish, giving it bold aroma and depth.
Long-grain white rice – Cooks directly in the same pan, soaking up all the buttery, garlicky goodness.
Chicken broth – Adds rich, savory flavor and cooks the rice to perfection.
Parmesan cheese – Adds creaminess and nutty flavor that ties the dish together beautifully.
Heavy cream or milk – Optional, for extra creaminess and a luxurious texture in the rice.
Salt and black pepper – Simple but essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
Italian seasoning – Adds a subtle herby touch that complements the Parmesan and garlic.
Fresh parsley – For garnish and a touch of freshness before serving.
Directions
Season the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt a little more butter, then add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the rice and toast for 1–2 minutes to enhance its flavor.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and cream (if using) until creamy and smooth. Return the chicken to the skillet and let it warm through for 2–3 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Serve hot, with extra Parmesan on top if desired.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- Large skillet with lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Tongs for flipping chicken
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: About 40 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth or milk to bring back the creamy texture. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months — thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Variations and Customizations
Creamy Spinach Parmesan Rice
Stir in a handful of baby spinach at the end for a pop of color and nutrition.
Mushroom Garlic Rice
Add sliced mushrooms when cooking the garlic for an earthy, umami-rich version.
Spicy Kick
Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for subtle heat.
Lemon Garlic Chicken
Add a squeeze of lemon juice and zest before serving for brightness and balance.
Bacon Lover’s Twist
Stir in crispy bacon bits for smoky flavor that complements the Parmesan perfectly.
Broccoli Chicken Rice
Add small broccoli florets to the pan during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a complete meal.
Cheesy Upgrade
Mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar for an extra gooey, cheesy version.
Low-Carb Option
Replace rice with cauliflower rice and reduce the broth amount — cook uncovered until tender.
Dairy-Free Version
Use olive oil instead of butter and omit the cream or cheese, substituting with nutritional yeast for flavor.
Herb Butter Rice
Mix fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary into the rice for a fragrant, herby aroma.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the broth and cook time by about 15–20 minutes.
Do I have to use cream?
No, it’s optional — the Parmesan alone creates plenty of creaminess.
What’s the best cut of chicken to use?
Both breasts and thighs work well — thighs stay juicier, while breasts are leaner.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats beautifully. Store the chicken and rice separately for the best texture.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely. Add it back into the rice during the last few minutes to heat through.
Can I use instant rice?
You can, but reduce the liquid slightly and cook for less time to prevent mushiness.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking?
Keep the heat low while simmering and don’t stir until most of the liquid is absorbed.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, peas, spinach, or broccoli all pair perfectly with the garlic Parmesan flavor.
How can I make it extra garlicky?
Add roasted garlic or a little garlic powder to the sauce for a stronger flavor.
What sides go best with this dish?
A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables complement it perfectly.
Conclusion
Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is the definition of cozy, creamy comfort food — a simple one-pan dish bursting with rich, garlicky, cheesy flavor. Every bite is satisfying, from the tender chicken to the buttery, perfectly seasoned rice. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe proves that a few simple ingredients can create something truly special. Serve it once, and it’ll quickly become one of your go-to weeknight favorites.
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