If you’re searching for a cozy, flavor-packed meal that feels like an indulgence but comes together effortlessly, Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is your new best friend. Imagine juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken nestled on a bed of creamy, garlicky rice, finished with a generous shower of Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This one-pan wonder is weeknight friendly, impressive enough for company, and has comfort written all over it. Every bite delivers the savory notes you crave, and you’ll want to make this Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice on repeat.

Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is refreshingly simple, but each item works hard. A few staples, a little love, and you’ll have a meal that dazzles with richness and just the right touch of freshness.

Chicken thighs or breasts: Choose boneless, skinless pieces for quicker cooking and juicy, tender results.
Italian seasoning: This blend gives the chicken herby complexity and a beautiful aroma.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the other flavors to life.
Olive oil: Adds depth and helps the chicken brown deliciously in the skillet.
Fresh garlic: Four cloves, minced, infuses the rice with unmistakable savory warmth.
Long-grain white rice: Absorbs all those wonderful flavors and turns luscious and creamy.
Low-sodium chicken broth: The key to a savory rice foundation that doesn’t overwhelm with salt.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the rice for luxe creaminess and salty, nutty goodness.
Unsalted butter: Rounds everything out and makes the rice glossy and rich.
Chopped fresh parsley: Optional, but so worth it for a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness.

How to Make Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by sprinkling your chicken generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a big skillet over medium, then add your chicken. Let it sizzle until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 6 to 7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Once done, move your chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep it warm while you prep the rice.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Toast Rice

Keep the flavorful bits in the pan! Add your minced garlic to the drippings and stir for about 30 seconds—just until you can smell that irresistible aroma. Dump in the dry rice and stir it around for a minute or two, letting it soak up all those garlicky flavors and toast ever so slightly for added nuttiness.

Step 3: Simmer the Rice

Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir, scraping up any delicious bits from the bottom. Bring it to a boil, then turn the heat down low and cover the pan. Let it bubble gently for 18 to 20 minutes, until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed. Patience is key for perfect, fluffy rice!

Step 4: Stir in the Parmesan and Butter

Once the rice is cooked, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and butter until they’re fully melted and the rice looks irresistible—silky, creamy, and packed with cheesy flavor. This transforms your rice from simple to spectacular, binding everything together.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Nestle the browned chicken back into the skillet right on top of the rice, then sprinkle everything with a flurry of chopped fresh parsley. Serve it right from the pan for a comforting, family-style feel that shows off every golden piece of Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice.

How to Serve Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Garnishes

A final touch of fresh parsley adds brightness, while a little extra grated Parmesan on top never hurts for cheese lovers. A drizzle of good olive oil or a crack of black pepper is also a fabulous way to finish off the Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice just before serving.

Side Dishes

Since Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is hearty on its own, keep sides simple: a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli complement the flavors beautifully. For a festive twist, pair it with garlicky sautéed spinach or a tangy tomato salad to balance out the creaminess.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice family-style straight from the skillet, or scoop individual helpings into shallow bowls and top with ribboned basil for a fragrant twist. If you’re entertaining, serve with lemon wedges for squeezing to add a bright, fresh note.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for meal prep or easy next-day lunches.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to two months, but for the best texture, freeze the chicken and rice separately. Let them cool completely, then pack into individual freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For gentle reheating, warm Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the rice if needed. Alternatively, microwave in covered short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Once your rice is finished, simply stir in the pre-cooked chicken just to warm it through. This makes Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice even quicker on busy nights.

Can I substitute brown rice or another grain?

You can substitute brown rice for a nuttier flavor and extra nutrition, but you’ll need to increase the broth and cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook. You can also experiment with orzo or quinoa for a creative twist.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a certified gluten-free chicken broth, Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is naturally gluten-free, making it great for those watching their gluten intake.

What vegetables can I add to the rice?

Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas are wonderful stirred into the rice right before serving. They add pops of color and extra nutrients without overpowering the star flavors.

Can I make this dish creamy with no dairy?

For a creamy, dairy-free version, skip the Parmesan and butter and instead stir in a splash of canned coconut milk at the end. The flavor profile changes a bit, but it’s still rich and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a no-fuss, all-in-one meal that still sparkles on the plate, give Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice a try. It’s the kind of feel-good dish you’ll reach for over and over, whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself to a comforting night in. Happy cooking!

Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe

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4.9 from 14 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 is a flavorful and comforting dish that is easy to make in just one skillet. Tender chicken is seasoned and seared to perfection, then paired with creamy Parmesan rice for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Rice:

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

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Instructions

Season the Chicken: Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the chicken and sear on both sides until golden brown and cooked through.
Cook the Rice: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic, then stir in the rice. Add chicken broth, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer until rice is tender.
Finish the Dish: Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan cheese and butter until creamy. Return chicken to skillet, sprinkle with parsley, and serve.