Introduction
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice is a quick, comforting, and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with savory garlic and parmesan flavors, all atop a bed of fluffy rice. This simple recipe is a weeknight dinner favorite that requires minimal ingredients and delivers maximum taste, making it perfect for busy families or anyone craving a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a deliciously creamy and aromatic meal that everyone will love.
The History of Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
This dish draws inspiration from classic garlic parmesan recipes, often seen in Italian-American cuisine, where garlic, parmesan cheese, and butter form the base for many flavorful sauces. The addition of rice to the dish makes it a complete meal that’s hearty and filling. The simplicity of the ingredients reflects the ease of cooking that has made this dish a popular choice in many households, with each family adding their own little twist. The concept of combining chicken and rice dates back centuries, offering a versatile and affordable meal, while the garlic parmesan combo brings a modern flair with its creamy and bold flavors.
Ingredients Breakdown
For this recipe, you’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, as they cook quickly and remain tender. The garlic and parmesan blend together to create a rich, savory sauce, and the rice serves as the perfect base to absorb all those wonderful flavors. You’ll also need butter, olive oil, and a few seasonings like salt, pepper, and dried herbs such as thyme or parsley. Fresh parsley can be used for garnish to add a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the creamy dish.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Start by seasoning your chicken with salt, pepper, and your choice of dried herbs. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add in the rice and stir to coat with the garlic butter mixture. Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat and let the rice simmer for about 15-18 minutes until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
Once the rice is ready, stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, nestling it into the rice, and cover the pan. Allow it to cook for an additional 5 minutes so the chicken absorbs the flavors of the rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
For the juiciest chicken, be sure not to overcook it—use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If you prefer a creamier sauce, feel free to add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese to the rice before adding the parmesan. Using freshly grated parmesan will give the sauce a smoother, richer texture compared to pre-grated options. Adjust the seasoning with extra garlic or cheese to your taste for a stronger flavor. For extra flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving to balance the richness.
Variations and Customizations
You can swap out the chicken for other proteins like shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. The rice can also be substituted with quinoa or couscous for a different texture. To make the dish more robust, try adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms to the skillet while cooking the rice. For a spicier kick, you can include red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce mixture. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as gouda or mozzarella, for a twist on the traditional parmesan flavor.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
While this dish offers a hearty serving of protein and carbohydrates, the richness of the butter and cheese can add up in terms of calories and fat. To make a lighter version, you can use olive oil instead of butter and reduce the amount of cheese. Brown rice or cauliflower rice can be substituted for a healthier grain option. If you’re looking to reduce sodium, make sure to use low-sodium chicken broth and adjust the seasoning as needed. This dish provides a good balance of macronutrients, but as with all rich comfort food, moderation is key to enjoying it as part of a well-rounded diet.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice separately in advance, then combine them and reheat before serving. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, you can freeze the chicken and rice together. Just allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a bit of hot sauce to the garlic butter mixture for a spicy kick.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
- 1 lb. chicken tenders
- ▢ Poultry seasoning I prefer Cajun seasoning
- ▢ 3 tablespoons minced garlic about 10 cloves, divided
- ▢ 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ▢ 1 stick butter 1/2 cup, divided
- ▢ 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ▢ 1/2 teaspoon salt
- ▢ 3/4 cup dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio
- ▢ 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice basmati, long grain, or jasmine all work
- ▢ 2 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- ▢ 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese choose a quality brand, freshly grated or shredded
- ▢ 1 tablespoon freshly minced parsley
Instructions
- Season the chicken well on both sides. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Cook the chicken for about 3 minutes on each side, flipping it only once, then reduce the heat to low.
- Once the chicken is nearly cooked through, add 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of garlic to the pan. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Toss the chicken tenders in the garlic butter, coating them evenly on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, tented with foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, increase the heat to medium-low, add 4 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the wine and let it simmer to reduce, about 3-5 minutes.
- Using a measuring cup, scoop out 1/3 cup of the pan juices and set it aside for later. Heat the pan to medium heat and add the uncooked rice. Pan-fry the rice for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add the chicken stock and 1/2 teaspoon of salt along with the red pepper flakes. Ensure the rice is fully submerged in the liquid, then bring the mixture to a low boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
- Stir the cooked rice and mix in the parmesan cheese. Dice the chicken (or leave the tenders whole) and arrange it evenly over the rice.
- In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of softened butter with the remaining garlic (about 1 tablespoon). Heat in the microwave for 15 seconds until partially melted. Stir in the reserved pan juices and mix well. Add in the parsley and stir to combine.
- Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the rice and chicken. Top with additional parmesan, if desired, and serve directly in the pan.
