Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

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Craving a cozy, skillet dinner that brings both comfort and flavor to your table? This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice might just become your new weeknight staple. It features juicy, seared chicken breasts nestled in creamy, garlicky rice that’s rich with savory Parmesan and fresh herbs.

The best part? It all comes together in one pan. This dish delivers big on flavor while keeping the cleanup minimal. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, it’s a go-to that checks all the boxes.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking, set yourself up with the right tools:

• Large Skillet with Lid: Essential for both browning the chicken and simmering the rice. A lid traps steam for tender rice.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping the chicken without tearing the golden crust.
• Garlic Press or Microplane: Helps you finely mince or grate garlic to infuse maximum flavor.
• Wooden Spoon: Stirring rice gently with a wooden spoon helps maintain its texture and prevents sticking.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision matters, especially for broth and cheese proportions.

Having these tools ready ensures your cooking process stays smooth and efficient.

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Ingredients for the Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Each ingredient plays a flavorful and textural role in this dish:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Tender protein that browns beautifully and soaks in all the pan flavors.
• Olive Oil – For searing the chicken and building a flavorful base.
• Butter – Adds richness and helps brown both chicken and garlic.
• Fresh Garlic – The hero aromatic, lending bold flavor throughout the rice.
• Uncooked White Rice – Absorbs the broth and garlic, turning creamy without any cream.
• Chicken Broth – Enhances depth and infuses the rice with savory goodness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, cheesy finish that melts right into the rice.
• Parsley – Optional, but fresh parsley adds a pop of color and brightness.
• Salt & Black Pepper – To season both the chicken and the rice base.

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How To Make the Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and a touch of butter in your skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden on both sides (about 4–5 minutes per side), then remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Lower the heat and add more butter. Toss in your minced garlic and stir until fragrant – about 30 seconds. Don’t let it brown.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Broth

Pour the uncooked rice into the skillet and stir to coat it in the garlicky butter. Add the chicken broth and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer and Steam

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them on top of the rice. Cover with a lid and let it cook on low heat for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan

Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle Parmesan over the rice and stir gently to combine. Let it sit for a couple of minutes with the lid on to allow everything to melt and settle.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped parsley and serve hot. You’ll get that golden chicken atop a creamy garlic rice that’s full of flavor.

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Serving and Storing Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Serve this dish hot and straight from the skillet. Pair it with a light side salad or steamed green beans to keep the meal balanced and fresh.

To store leftovers, transfer the cooled chicken and rice into an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water before microwaving to bring back the creamy texture of the rice.

You can also freeze individual portions for up to one month. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice is ideal because it cooks evenly and absorbs the broth without getting mushy. Avoid quick-cooking or instant rice for this recipe.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Boneless skinless thighs will be just as delicious and a bit juicier. Just adjust the cook time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the skillet?

Make sure your skillet is well-heated and your broth fully covers the rice when you start simmering. Stir gently once or twice if needed before adding the chicken.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the chicken and start by sautéing garlic in butter. Use vegetable broth and add sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for protein.

Is fresh Parmesan necessary?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and tastes richer, but pre-grated will work in a pinch. Avoid powdered Parmesan from a shaker.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just make sure your skillet is large enough. A deep sauté pan or Dutch oven is best if you’re scaling up for more servings.

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Want More Chicken & Rice Dinner Ideas?

If you’re into hearty one-pan dinners like this, I’ve got more you’ll love.

Try the creamy richness of my One Pot French Onion Chicken Rice Recipe or go bold with the One Pan Smoky Spicy Chicken Rice Bake.

Craving something tangier? The Spicy Honey Sriracha Chicken with Noodles brings heat and balance.

For a comforting twist, you might enjoy the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe, or go for a lighter option with the Italian Grinder Salad to round out your main dish.

For more recipe inspiration and ideas I share daily, follow along on Pinterest at LadyPlate.

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