Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice: A Deliciously Easy Dinner

Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, garlicky rice base. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, offering a balanced meal with minimal effort. The chicken is seared to perfection and served over a savory garlic Parmesan rice that absorbs all the delicious flavors of the broth and cheese. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding the whole family, this dish is sure to satisfy with its comforting textures and rich taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you need a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal prep time.

2. One-Pan Meal

Everything is cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. The chicken is cooked right alongside the rice, allowing all the flavors to meld together for a seamless dish.

3. Rich, Creamy Rice

The garlic Parmesan rice is flavorful and creamy, thanks to the chicken broth and Parmesan cheese. It’s the perfect complement to the juicy, tender chicken.

4. Customizable

This dish can be easily customized. Add vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color. You can also adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more garlic or Parmesan if desired.

5. Family-Friendly

Both kids and adults will love this dish. It’s mild enough for younger eaters while still offering rich flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• White rice
• Chicken broth
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Variations

1. Add Vegetables

For a more well-rounded meal, stir in vegetables like peas, spinach, or mushrooms into the rice before simmering. They’ll cook with the rice and add extra flavor and color.

2. Use Brown Rice

If you prefer a whole-grain option, swap the white rice for brown rice. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts, as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

3. Add Cream for Extra Richness

For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of butter along with the Parmesan cheese.

4. Make it Spicy

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small diced jalapeño along with the garlic for a little heat.

5. Use Chicken Thighs

If you prefer chicken thighs over breasts, feel free to substitute. Chicken thighs will provide even more flavor and juiciness.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. This helps infuse the oil with garlic flavor, which will be absorbed by the rice.

Step 3: Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Stir in Parmesan

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The cheese will melt into the rice, giving it a creamy texture.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Slice the cooked chicken breasts and serve them over the garlic Parmesan rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will give a stronger, more aromatic flavor than pre-minced garlic.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Chicken: Be sure to sear the chicken without overcrowding the pan so it can brown properly. You may need to cook it in batches if your skillet is small.
• Let the Rice Rest: After cooking, let the rice sit for a few minutes before stirring in the Parmesan. This helps the rice firm up and ensures it absorbs all the flavors.
• Use Low-Sodium Broth: If you’re watching your salt intake, consider using low-sodium chicken broth to control the level of salt in the dish.

How to Serve

Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for extra nutrients. A simple glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay, will complement the richness of the garlic Parmesan rice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out.

Freezing

While this dish can be frozen, it’s best to store the rice and chicken separately if possible. Freeze them in individual portions for easy reheating later. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop with a little chicken broth to bring the rice back to life.

Reheating

Reheat leftover chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a small amount of chicken broth or water to keep the rice moist while reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a slightly different flavor.

3. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to increase the cooking time and possibly the liquid. Brown rice takes about 40-45 minutes to cook.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the rice ahead of time and reheat it with the chicken. It’s best to cook the chicken fresh for optimal flavor.

5. How do I prevent the rice from being too sticky?

Make sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch. This will help the rice stay fluffy and not clump together.

6. Can I make the garlic Parmesan rice without chicken?

Yes, the garlic Parmesan rice can be made as a vegetarian dish. You can add vegetables or serve it as a side dish.

7. What if I don’t have chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or even water, although the flavor will be milder.

8. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken in place of fresh chicken breasts. Add it to the skillet when you stir in the garlic and let it warm through.

9. Can I add more garlic?

Absolutely! If you love garlic, feel free to add more cloves to suit your taste.

10. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Conclusion

Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a comforting and easy dish that delivers on both flavor and convenience. With its savory garlic-infused rice and tender chicken breasts, this meal is sure to become a family favorite. The rich, creamy Parmesan rice pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken, creating a satisfying dish that is both simple and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a dish that will impress guests, this recipe is a winner every time.

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