Zippy Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe for Busy Nights

My go-to chicken with garlic parmesan rice never fails to spark dinner conversations at our table.

Aromas waft through the kitchen, promising comfort and satisfaction with every bite.

Weeknight meals can feel mundane, but this recipe breaks through culinary monotony.

Savory parmesan adds a luxurious depth that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Friends always ask for the secret behind these magical flavors.

Tender chicken nestled against creamy, herb-infused rice creates a harmonious plate that feels both elegant and approachable.

Grab your skillet and let’s make magic happen together.

Why Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Is a Flavorful Meal

• Simplify Weeknight Cooking: Prepare a delicious meal using just one skillet, minimizing cleanup and saving precious kitchen time.
• Boost Flavor Profile: Combine golden-brown chicken with aromatic garlic and rich Parmesan cheese for a mouthwatering combination that elevates everyday ingredients.
• Perfect for Skill Levels: Beginner-friendly recipe with straightforward steps that guarantee a restaurant-quality dish without complex techniques, making it ideal for home cooks of all experience levels.
• Versatile Meal Solution: Adaptable recipe that works great for family dinners, quick lunches, or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying protein and rice option that pleases multiple taste preferences.

Ingredients for Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Chicken Breast: A lean and tender protein that forms the main component of this delicious dish.

• Olive Oil: A heart-healthy oil that helps brown the chicken and adds rich flavor.
• Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the natural taste of the chicken.

• Long-Grain White Rice: A fluffy base that absorbs the delicious garlic and Parmesan flavors.
• Minced Garlic: A pungent ingredient that brings aromatic depth to the rice.
• Chicken Broth: A savory liquid that cooks the rice and adds extra flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sharp and salty cheese that creates a creamy and rich finish to the rice.

• Fresh Parsley: A bright and fresh herb that adds a pop of color and subtle herbal note to the dish.

How to Prepare Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Warm Up the Pan

Slide olive oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium warmth until it shimmers with potential.

Step 2: Transform the Chicken

Shower chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then drop them into the hot skillet. Dance the chicken around until each side turns a gorgeous golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side. Lift the perfectly cooked chicken out and park it on a nearby plate.

Step 3: Awaken the Garlic

Tumble minced garlic into the same skillet, letting its magical aroma bloom for about a minute.

Step 4: Toast the Rice

Cascade rice into the skillet and stir it around, letting each grain get a quick tan for 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Liquid Magic

Stream chicken broth into the skillet, bringing everything to a bubbling boil.

Step 6: Gentle Simmer

Lower the heat to a whisper, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the rice become tender and dreamy for 20 minutes.

Step 7: Cheese Transformation

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese into the rice, stirring until it melts into a creamy wonderland.

Step 8: Plate and Celebrate

Nestle the golden chicken atop the garlic Parmesan rice, then shower with fresh parsley for a final flourish.

Expert Tips for Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Ensure chicken is at room temperature before cooking for even browning and juicier results.
• Use fresh garlic for the most robust flavor and avoid burning by cooking it briefly.
• Choose short-grain or medium-grain rice for creamier texture when making the Parmesan rice.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like Romano or Asiago for unique flavor profiles.
• Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to retain moisture and prevent dryness.

Variations to Enhance Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Mediterranean Chicken Delight: Replace Parmesan with crumbled feta cheese, add diced tomatoes, and sprinkle dried oregano for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Spicy Cajun Chicken Rice: Coat chicken with Cajun seasoning, use long-grain rice, and mix in chopped bell peppers for a zesty Southern-style meal.
• Herb-Infused Chicken Skillet: Incorporate fresh thyme and rosemary into the rice, use white wine instead of chicken broth, and finish with lemon zest for brightness.
• Creamy Mushroom Chicken Rice: Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic, blend cream cheese into the rice, and top with chopped green onions for extra richness.

Best Pairings for Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Pair Fresh Chardonnay: Light, crisp white wine complements the creamy garlic Parmesan rice and enhances the chicken's golden-brown flavor profile.
• Serve Mediterranean Salad: Bright, tangy mixed greens with cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette cut through the richness of the dish and add refreshing contrast.
• Match Roasted Asparagus: Tender, slightly charred asparagus spears with a light olive oil and sea salt seasoning provide a perfect green vegetable side that balances the meal's creamy texture.
• Add Crusty Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy bread with a buttery garlic spread allows diners to soak up the delicious Parmesan rice sauce and complete the dining experience.

Storage Advice for Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Store leftover chicken and rice in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them separately to maintain texture. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Wrap chicken and rice individually in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freeze for maximum 2-3 months, ensuring airtight sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Place chicken and rice on a microwave-safe plate, sprinkle a few drops of water or chicken broth to prevent dryness. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring rice halfway through.
• Preheat oven to 350°F.

FAQs Regarding Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute long-grain white rice, basmati, or brown rice. Just adjust cooking time based on the specific rice variety.

• Is it necessary to use fresh Parmesan cheese?

Fresh grated Parmesan provides the best flavor, but pre-grated cheese works too. Just ensure it’s good quality for the best taste.

• How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be white throughout with no pink areas.

• Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great and can be even more flavorful. Adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked.

Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 38-39 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Mouthwatering chicken with garlic parmesan rice brings Italian comfort to weeknight dinners, blending crispy chicken and creamy seasoned rice. Savory herbs and melted cheese create a delicious symphony that draws hungry families to the table with irresistible flavor.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 lb (454 grams) chicken breast

Grains:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) white rice
• 2 cups (480 milliliters) chicken broth

Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Warm a generously sized skillet over medium flame, drizzling olive oil across the surface.
2. Liberally season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, ensuring thorough coverage.
3. Sear chicken pieces for 5-6 minutes per side until achieving a rich golden-brown exterior and ensuring complete internal cooking.
4. Transfer perfectly cooked chicken to a separate plate, keeping warm.
5. Without cleaning the skillet, introduce minced garlic, allowing aromatic oils to release for approximately 60 seconds.
6. Incorporate uncooked rice into the fragrant skillet, gently toasting grains for 2-3 minutes to enhance nutty undertones.
7. Stream chicken broth into the skillet, raising temperature until liquid reaches a vigorous boil.
8. Reduce heat to lowest setting, securely cover skillet, and allow rice to simmer for 20 minutes until grains become tender and liquid absorbs completely.
9. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese across the surface, stirring until cheese melts and creates a luxuriously creamy texture.
10. Plate golden-brown chicken atop the garlic-infused Parmesan rice, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.

Notes

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the most tender and uniform cooking result.
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden-brown crust and maximum flavor absorption.
• Toast rice briefly to enhance its nutty flavor and prevent clumping during cooking.
• For extra richness, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties for a more intense, authentic taste.
• Customize the dish by adding roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for additional nutrition and color.
• Low-sodium chicken broth works great for those watching salt intake without compromising flavor depth.
• Gluten-free option: Confirm your rice and broth are certified gluten-free for celiac or gluten-sensitive diners.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 33-34 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 368 kcal
• Sugar: 0.5 g
• Sodium: 580 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 65 mg