This Easy One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice is a winner! You get tender chicken and fluffy rice, all cooked together in one pan with tasty garlic and cheesy goodness.
Who said cooking has to be messy? I love this dish because it makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, I can just add a side salad, and dinner is done! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts work perfectly here for tenderness. If you want to save time, feel free to use thighs or even leftover rotisserie chicken. Just add them in towards the end to warm through.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really brings a punch of flavor! If you’re out, garlic powder can be used, but use about 1 teaspoon instead of 4 cloves. I always prefer fresh for the best taste!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds creaminess and a lovely nutty flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast works well as a substitute. Just sprinkle in a bit to taste.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is a staple for this recipe. If needed, swap for basmati or jasmine rice. Brown rice can be used too, but it’ll require longer cooking time and more liquid.
How Do You Cook the Chicken So It Stays Juicy?
Getting juicy chicken is all about the cooking time and heat. First, sear the chicken to lock in moisture. Use medium-high heat until golden brown, then lower the heat when you add the rice. This way, the chicken cooks through without drying out.
- Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to get that nice brown color.
- Using a meat thermometer, check that the internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness!
Why Is Garlic Important in This Dish?
Garlic isn’t just for flavor; it adds depth and aroma. Sauté it until fragrant before adding rice to enhance the overall taste. Remember, garlic can burn easily, so keep your eye on it and stir often!
Easy One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Rice:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
For Finishing Touches:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook, including the simmering time. So, in about 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to serve with minimal clean-up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts on both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This adds great flavor right from the start!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them until they are nice and golden brown on both sides, roughly 4-5 minutes each side. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, turn the heat down to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
4. Add the Rice:
Next, add the uncooked rice to the skillet, and give it a good stir to coat the rice with the garlic and oil. This will help enhance the rice’s flavor!
5. Pour the Broth and Cheese:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs to create a rich, cheesy base.
6. Return the Chicken:
Place the browned chicken breasts back into the skillet, laying them right on top of the rice mixture.
7. Cook It All Together:
Lower the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it cook for about 18-20 minutes. This is when the rice becomes tender and absorbs all the delicious flavors from the chicken. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
8. Add Butter for Creaminess:
Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the butter. This will make the dish extra creamy and rich. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Now, enjoy your comforting one-pan meal!
Bon appétit! This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household!
FAQ for Easy One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Typically, brown rice needs to simmer for about 30-35 minutes with 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth. Just be sure to check the rice for doneness before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or water. Keep in mind that the flavor may be less intense with water, so adding a pinch of salt or a splash of soy sauce can give you a nice umami boost!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on a stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas, spinach, or bell peppers. Just stir them in after adding the rice and broth, and adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through. This is a great way to make the dish even heartier and more nutritious!
