Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Golden seared chicken resting over a bed of creamy garlic parmesan rice—this dish is comfort food with a gourmet twist. Every bite of juicy, seasoned chicken is perfectly complemented by the rich and cheesy rice, infused with the unmistakable aroma of garlic and fresh herbs. It’s the kind of meal that feels both indulgent and soul-warming, all while being surprisingly simple to make on a weeknight.

The creamy rice soaks up the flavor from the pan-seared chicken, creating a one-skillet masterpiece that’s as satisfying as it is easy to clean up. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting guests, Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is one of those recipes that makes you look like a pro—without spending hours in the kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

• One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
• Weeknight-friendly: Ready in under 45 minutes from start to finish.
• Crowd-pleaser: Kids and adults alike can’t get enough of the creamy, cheesy rice and tender chicken.
• Versatile: Serve it with veggies, salad, or just as is—it's a complete meal.
• Great for leftovers: The rice gets even more flavorful the next day.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Their Importance)

Getting everything ready before you start cooking this Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice will make the process smooth and stress-free. This dish comes together quickly, so prepping your tools and ingredients ahead of time is key.

Here are the essential tools you'll need:

• Large Skillet with Lid: Since this is a one-pan recipe, your skillet is the hero. Choose one that’s wide and deep enough to cook both the chicken and rice evenly, and preferably nonstick or stainless steel for a perfect sear. The lid is important for simmering the rice properly.
• Tongs or Spatula: For flipping the chicken without tearing it. Tongs also help to avoid splashes and burns from hot oil.
• Cutting Board and Knife: You’ll need these for trimming the chicken and mincing garlic or parsley.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters when it comes to getting that creamy rice texture and the right garlic-parmesan balance.
• Grater or Microplane: Essential for freshly grating Parmesan cheese, which melts better and gives a much richer flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
• Whisk or Wooden Spoon: Useful when stirring the rice as it simmers with broth, cheese, and cream.

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Preparation Tips

• Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a golden, crispy sear when cooking.
• Season generously, but taste as you go—especially with parmesan, which can be salty.
• Use warm broth when adding it to the rice to maintain consistent cooking temperature and prevent clumping.
• Grate the Parmesan fresh—pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty.
• Let the chicken rest after cooking to retain juices, then slice it over the rice for a beautiful presentation.
• Keep the rice covered while simmering to trap moisture and cook evenly.
• If your rice begins to dry out, add a splash of broth or water and stir gently.

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Ingredients for Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this creamy, savory one-skillet masterpiece. Each ingredient plays a key role in building rich flavor and texture.

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter

For the Garlic Parmesan Rice:

• 1 tablespoon butter (additional)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
• 2¼ cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
• ½ cup heavy cream or half & half
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Make sure to use freshly grated Parmesan and real garlic rather than garlic powder in the rice—this brings out the creamy, cheesy, and garlicky essence of the dish.

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside—keep it warm.

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Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add 1 tablespoon of butter, then stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn.

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Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat it in the garlicky butter. Let it toast lightly for 1–2 minutes; this step enhances the flavor and helps the rice hold its shape while cooking.

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Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a light boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the rice simmer for about 18–20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

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Step 5: Stir in Cream and Parmesan

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts and the rice becomes creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

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Step 6: Return Chicken to the Skillet

Nestle the cooked chicken back into the skillet over the rice. Spoon a little of the creamy rice over the top of the chicken. Let it warm through for 2–3 minutes on low heat.

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Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot, straight from the skillet for maximum comfort and flavor.

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Notes

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly and can result in a grainy texture.
• Adjust creaminess to taste: If you prefer a thicker rice, reduce the cream slightly. If you want it saucier, add a splash of extra broth or cream before serving.
• Customize the protein: This recipe also works great with boneless pork chops or shrimp if you want to mix things up.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the sear: Not properly searing the chicken means missing out on rich, caramelized flavor. Make sure your pan is hot before adding the chicken.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks quickly—too much heat or not stirring enough can make it bitter. Sauté it gently.
• Using cold broth: Adding cold broth can drastically lower the skillet’s temperature, interrupting the rice’s cooking. Always use warm or room-temperature broth.
• Overcooking the rice: Keep a close eye once most of the liquid has absorbed. Overcooking can turn it mushy and sticky.
• Underseasoning: Cream and cheese mellow out the flavors, so be sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Skipping the resting time: Letting the chicken rest after searing keeps it juicy. Don't skip this easy step!
• Crowding the skillet: Cook chicken in batches if needed to ensure proper searing. Overcrowding causes steaming instead of browning.
• Not stirring the rice occasionally: While simmering, a light stir now and then prevents the rice from sticking and scorching at the bottom.

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What to Serve With Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

While this dish is hearty and flavorful on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate the entire meal. Here are some complementary options that bring freshness, texture, or a bit of brightness to balance the creamy richness of the rice.

8 Recommendations

1. Steamed Broccoli

Lightly steamed broccoli adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color, plus it soaks up the garlicky sauce beautifully.

2. Garlic Butter Green Beans

Crisp-tender green beans tossed in garlic butter mirror the flavors in the main dish without overpowering it.

3. Simple Garden Salad

A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the cheese and cream.

4. Roasted Asparagus

Earthy, roasted asparagus spears bring a touch of bitterness that contrasts well with the creamy rice.

5. Sauteed Spinach with Lemon

Spinach lightly sautéed in olive oil and finished with a splash of lemon juice adds a bright, healthy touch.

6. Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast

Perfect for scooping up every last bit of cheesy rice and sauce—bread is a must for carb lovers.

7. Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Sweet and tangy carrots balance the savory tones of the chicken and parmesan.

8. Grilled Zucchini or Squash

Adds a smoky flavor and soft texture that pairs well with the creamy consistency of the rice.

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Storage Instructions

Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice stores beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep. Follow these tips to keep it tasting fresh:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Let the dish cool completely before sealing.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the rice if it’s thickened too much in the fridge.
• Freeze (with caution): The rice’s creamy texture may change slightly after freezing. If needed, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx. 4 servings)

• Calories: 565
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 140mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Serving Size: 1 plate (¼ of the full recipe)
• Category: Main Course
• Method: One-Pan / Skillet
• Cuisine: American-inspired comfort food
• Diet: Contains dairy, gluten optional (check broth and Parmesan source)

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and add more broth, since brown rice takes longer to cook and absorbs more liquid. Expect an additional 15–20 minutes.

2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half & half, whole milk, or even a mix of milk and a tablespoon of cream cheese or Greek yogurt. The texture may be slightly less rich, but still delicious.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, swap the butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free cream (like cashew or oat cream) and vegan Parmesan. The result won’t be quite as rich, but it will still be flavorful.

4. Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be! Just ensure your chicken broth and Parmesan are certified gluten-free. The core ingredients—rice, chicken, garlic, and cream—are naturally gluten-free.

5. Can I make it ahead of time?

Definitely. You can cook the full dish, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when ready to serve. Just add a bit of liquid when reheating to bring back the creaminess.

6. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer for best accuracy—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should also run clear when the chicken is cut.

7. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Thighs tend to be more flavorful and remain juicier, especially with longer cooking. Adjust cook time as needed based on thickness.

8. Can I add vegetables to the rice?

Yes! Add peas, spinach, or mushrooms toward the end of cooking for a boost of nutrients and texture. Just don’t overcrowd the skillet or the rice may cook unevenly.

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Conclusion

Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is the kind of recipe you’ll want in your permanent rotation. It’s rich, flavorful, and comforting—yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner. With tender seared chicken and ultra-creamy garlic parmesan rice, this dish checks every box for a satisfying meal that feels both homey and elevated. Try it once, and it just might become your new favorite skillet dinner.

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