If you’re craving a cozy, satisfying dinner that feels like a warm hug, this Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is the answer. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings together tender, juicy chicken and creamy, garlicky rice enriched with Parmesan cheese. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of savory flavor and comforting creaminess. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for a special meal. I once made this using leftover rotisserie chicken and almond milk instead of heavy cream—it was still just as rich and flavorful. Serve it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines two comfort food favorites—juicy chicken and creamy rice—into a single, easy dish. It’s simple to prepare, made with pantry staples, and cooks up in about 40 minutes. The garlic butter base infuses every grain of rice with deep flavor, while the Parmesan adds that signature nutty richness. It’s hearty, filling, and guaranteed to become part of your regular dinner rotation.
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Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice – Creamy, Flavorful, and Irresistibly Comforting
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Tender, juicy chicken breasts served over buttery garlic Parmesan rice — a comforting, one-pan meal that’s full of rich flavor and simple to make. Perfect for weeknights when you want something hearty, creamy, and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Sear chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add rice to the pan and stir to coat with the butter and garlic, toasting lightly for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and heavy cream (if using) until creamy and well combined.
- Return chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the rice mixture over the top. Let it heat through for 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- For richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for extra tenderness.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for mild heat.
- Pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or a side salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- 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
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option or thighs for extra tenderness and flavor. Season them well and sear until golden for that beautiful crust.
Butter
Creates the rich base for the garlic sauce and adds a luxurious, silky texture to the rice.
Garlic
Freshly minced garlic infuses the rice with robust flavor and complements the Parmesan beautifully.
Long-Grain White Rice
Absorbs the flavors of the broth, butter, and garlic perfectly. You can also use jasmine rice for extra fragrance.
Chicken Broth
Adds depth and enhances the savory flavor of the rice. Low-sodium broth works best so you can control seasoning.
Heavy Cream or Milk
Provides creaminess to the rice. You can substitute with half-and-half or almond milk for a lighter version.
Parmesan Cheese
The hero of the dish. It melts into the rice, creating a creamy, cheesy finish with a subtle nutty flavor.
Salt and Pepper
Essential for balancing the flavors of the creamy sauce and chicken.
Italian Seasoning (optional)
Adds a touch of herbal aroma that pairs perfectly with the garlic and cheese.
Fresh Parsley
Sprinkle over the finished dish for a pop of freshness and color.
Directions
- Season and cook the chicken. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and a touch of Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the garlic. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the rice. Stir in the uncooked rice, coating each grain with the butter and garlic mixture. Toast for 1–2 minutes for extra flavor.
- Simmer with broth. Pour in the chicken broth, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover the pan and cook for 15–18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Add cream and Parmesan. Lower the heat, then stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Combine and serve. Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it on top of the rice. Let everything heat together for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and more Parmesan before serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people generously.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess. You can also freeze the rice and chicken separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm before serving.
Variations and Customizations
Lemon Herb Version: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a bright, zesty twist.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for heat lovers.
Vegetable Boost: Stir in sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted broccoli near the end of cooking for added color and nutrients.
Mushroom Parmesan: Add sliced mushrooms and cook them with the garlic for a deeper, earthy flavor.
Creamy Tuscan Style: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and baby spinach for a Tuscan-inspired variation.
Lighter Version: Use low-fat milk instead of cream and reduce butter slightly for a lighter, but still creamy, dish.
Garlic Lover’s Dream: Double the garlic for a bold, aromatic punch of flavor.
Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in mozzarella or provolone with the Parmesan for a gooier texture.
Herbaceous Blend: Add fresh thyme or basil for a fresh, fragrant finish.
Bacon Twist: Stir in crispy bacon pieces before serving for an irresistible smoky crunch.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but it will require more broth and a longer cooking time—about 40–45 minutes.
What type of chicken works best?
Boneless chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly, but you can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Can I make this dish without cream?
Yes, substitute with milk or even almond milk—it will still be creamy and flavorful.
How can I prevent the rice from sticking?
Stir occasionally during cooking and make sure to simmer on low heat with a tightly fitted lid.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, store it in the fridge and reheat with a splash of broth or milk to bring back the creaminess.
What sides go best with this dish?
A simple salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans pair beautifully.
Can I use instant rice?
You can, but reduce the broth amount and cooking time according to the package instructions.
What kind of Parmesan should I use?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts best and gives superior flavor compared to pre-shredded versions.
Can I turn this into a casserole?
Absolutely—layer it in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake for 10 minutes until bubbly.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the creamy and cheesy flavor makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Conclusion
Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is the kind of dish that transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. It’s rich, creamy, and deeply comforting without being complicated. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a make-ahead meal for the week, this recipe delivers every time. Serve it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it whenever you need a quick, hearty, and delicious meal.
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