Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a cozy, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a warm, satisfying dish with minimal cleanup. Juicy chicken is seared to golden perfection, then simmered with garlic-infused rice and finished with a generous sprinkle of nutty Parmesan cheese. The best part? It all comes together in one pan, making it a practical and delicious choice for any home cook.
Let’s dive into how to make this easy and irresistible meal from scratch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (1.5–2 lbs total)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for depth)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Garlic Parmesan Rice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine/basmati)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Season the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika if using. This step ensures your chicken is flavorful throughout and sears beautifully.
Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Place the chicken into the hot pan and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet—it will finish cooking with the rice.
Cook the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add butter and the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Sauté the chopped onion for about 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn. This step builds a rich, savory base.
Toast the Rice
Stir the rice into the onion and garlic mixture.
Toast it gently for 1–2 minutes to coat the grains and bring out their nutty flavor. Don’t skip this step—it gives the rice a deeper, more complex taste.
Simmer with Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan to deglaze.
Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, letting it rest on top of the rice. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer.
Cover and Cook
Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid.
Simmer on low for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Avoid lifting the lid during cooking—it traps steam and ensures even cooking.
Add Parmesan and Garnish
Once everything is cooked through, remove the pan from the heat.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s evenly melted into the rice, giving it a creamy, cheesy finish.
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of freshness and color.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pan Simplicity
This recipe keeps things easy with just one skillet for cooking both the chicken and rice. Fewer dishes mean less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
Rich, Bold Flavors
The garlic, onion, and Parmesan create a deeply savory combination that elevates the simple ingredients. Add in juicy chicken and you’ve got a dish that’s both comforting and crave-worthy.
Family-Friendly and Versatile
Kids love it. Adults love it. You can swap the protein or add vegetables to suit everyone’s preferences.
Tips for Success
- Use an oven-safe skillet: For even better flavor and texture, you can finish the dish in the oven. Once it’s covered and simmering, transfer the whole pan to a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–15 minutes.
- Don’t skip the sear: Browning the chicken locks in moisture and adds a ton of flavor. That golden crust is worth the extra few minutes.
- Adjust the cheese level: Parmesan adds umami richness, but if you’re a cheese lover, feel free to stir in more or add a mix of cheeses (like mozzarella or cheddar).
- Let it rest: After cooking, let the dish sit off the heat for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the rice firm up and intensifies the flavor.
Ways to Enjoy Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Make It a Full Meal
Pair this dish with a crisp side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots for a well-balanced dinner.
Add Variety
- Swap chicken for sausage, shrimp, or tofu to change things up.
- Stir in frozen peas or spinach at the end of cooking for a pop of color and nutrition.
- Add a touch of lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness.
Great for Meal Prep
Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the fridge.
To reheat, add a splash of broth or water and microwave or reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time (around 40–45 minutes) and possibly more broth. Adjust the liquid as needed.
Is it okay to use bone-in chicken?
You can use bone-in thighs or drumsticks, but they will need to cook longer. Consider par-cooking them before adding them to the rice.
What kind of Parmesan is best?
Freshly grated Parmesan from a block offers the best flavor and texture. Avoid pre-shredded versions, which may not melt as smoothly.
Can I freeze leftovers?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, as rice can become mushy when frozen. If you do freeze it, reheat in a skillet for better texture.
How do I make it creamier?
Stir in a tablespoon or two of cream or cream cheese along with the Parmesan for an extra luscious result.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is everything you want in a one-pan dinner—easy, delicious, and deeply satisfying. With tender chicken, garlicky rice, and a touch of cheese, it’s a comfort food staple you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish has you covered.