If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor, you simply have to try this Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken Recipe. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings together tender, juicy chicken with perfectly cooked, garlicky rice all enriched with the irresistible creaminess of Parmesan cheese. This dish is not only a feast for your taste buds but also super simple to make—even on a busy weeknight when you want something hearty without a fuss. Every spoonful delivers that perfect balance of savory, cheesy goodness with a slight hint of garlic that will have you coming back for seconds and maybe even thirds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients are the heart and soul of the dish, each playing a role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this recipe so addictive. From the savory chicken to the nutty Parmesan, every component is essential for creating that creamy, garlicky magic.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to brown the chicken beautifully and adds a subtle fruity richness.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces): Provides tender protein that soaks up all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all flavors evenly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat without overpowering.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): The star flavor that infuses the whole dish with warmth and depth.
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked): A fluffy, tender base that soaks up the savory chicken broth perfectly.
- 2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist and flavorful without being too salty.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds creamy, salty, nutty richness that defines this recipe.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Gives the rice a luscious finish and mouthfeel.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): Brightens the dish with a fresh pop of color and herbaceous flavor.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Sprinkle the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot pan. Cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until each piece is beautifully browned on the outside and cooked through. This step locks in juices and forms a flavorful crust that will make every bite delightful. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest—it’ll be mixed back in later.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, don’t clean out the flavorful bits left behind by the chicken. Add your minced garlic and cook it for just about a minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The aroma that fills your kitchen here is pure joy and a great sign that you’re on the right track. This quick sauté releases the garlic’s essential oils, which will mingle beautifully with the rice.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Next, stir in the uncooked rice directly into the skillet. Toast it for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. This toasting process adds a slight nuttiness to the rice, ensuring every grain has flavor and doesn’t become bland after cooking in broth. It’s one of those little steps that transforms a simple dish into something truly special.
Step 4: Simmer with Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a gentle stir before bringing it to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid. Let the rice cook for 15 to 18 minutes undisturbed until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. This slow, gentle cooking allows the rice to fluff up and soak in those savory, garlicky broth flavors.
Step 5: Finish with Chicken, Parmesan, and Butter
Once the rice is perfectly cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Gently fold in the cooked chicken pieces along with the grated Parmesan cheese and butter. This final step turns the rice creamy and luscious, thanks to the melting cheese and butter that coat every grain. A quick sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a beautiful green contrast and a touch of freshness to round it all out.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken Recipe look as amazing as it tastes, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top right before serving. Fresh herbs like parsley or even basil add a lovely color and a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully. For a subtle citrus note, a squeeze of lemon juice over the top brightens the dish up and balances the creaminess perfectly.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines wonderfully on its own, but if you want to build a complete meal, light and crisp sides like a simple mixed greens salad or steamed vegetables are fantastic choices. Roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans work wonderfully too, as their slight bitterness cuts through the richness, making every mouthful more exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, try plating the rice in a small ramekin or bowl, then invert it onto the plate for a lovely mound. This not only looks professional but also helps portion control. If you’re feeding a family or guests, consider serving this dish family-style in a big colorful skillet right at the table—it’s warm, inviting, and encourages everyone to dig in together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken Recipe store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the food cool to room temperature before closing the container to keep it fresher longer. The rice may firm up a bit, but that’s easy to fix when reheating.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, feel free to freeze portions in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality. When freezing, it’s best to wait until the dish has fully cooled, then portion it out into individual servings so you can thaw only what you need.
Reheating
Reheat your garlic Parmesan rice with chicken gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture. Stir frequently and be patient—this will help revive the creamy texture and prevent the rice from drying out. A quick sprinkle of fresh Parmesan or parsley after reheating can refresh the flavors nicely.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish. Just keep in mind they might require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and Parmesan cheese. It’s a fantastic option for those avoiding gluten without sacrificing taste.
Can I make this recipe without Parmesan cheese?
You can, but Parmesan adds a distinctive nutty creaminess that really defines the dish. If you’re avoiding dairy or don’t have Parmesan on hand, consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a similar savory flavor.
Can this recipe be made with brown rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and add more broth because brown rice takes longer to cook and absorbs more liquid. Plan for about 40 to 45 minutes of cooking on low heat.
What if I want to add vegetables?
Great idea! Feel free to toss in veggies like bell peppers, peas, spinach, or mushrooms along with the garlic or just before adding the broth. They’ll add color, nutrients, and even more flavor to your Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken Recipe.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to whip up this Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken Recipe because it’s truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is an easy, satisfying, and incredibly tasty way to make dinner something to look forward to. Give it a try soon—you might just have a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken is a flavorful and comforting one-pan meal featuring tender chicken pieces cooked with aromatic garlic, creamy Parmesan cheese, and perfectly tender rice. The skillet-cooked dish is easy to prepare and ideal for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken & Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Rice & Flavorings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Toast the rice: Stir in the uncooked rice with the garlic and toast it for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to coat the grains and develop flavor.
- Add broth and simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and cook for 15–18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Combine and finish: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir the cooked chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, and butter into the rice until the mixture becomes creamy and well combined.
- Garnish and serve: Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving for a fresh flavor and vibrant presentation.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sauté finely chopped onion along with the garlic at the start.
- You can substitute brown rice, but increase the cooking time and broth quantity accordingly.
- Add a splash of cream at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
- Ensure to use certified gluten-free broth and Parmesan if you need to maintain a gluten-free diet.
