There is something utterly irresistible about a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken and rich, flavorful rice in one pan, and that is precisely what you get with this Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe. Imagine juicy chicken thighs perfectly seasoned and seared to golden perfection, nestled into creamy, garlicky Parmesan-infused rice that’s cooked just right—each bite bursting with cozy warmth and savory goodness. This recipe is a fantastic weeknight winner, suiting both busy schedules and moments when you want to impress without fuss. Ready to discover how simple ingredients transform into a soul-satisfying meal? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet crucial to creating the delicious layers of flavor and texture in the Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe. Each one plays a significant role, from the aromatic garlic to the creamy Parmesan and the tender, seasoned chicken thighs.
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Choose thighs for their juiciness and rich flavor, perfect for pan-searing.
- Olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps achieve that golden crust on the chicken.
- Butter: Brings creamy depth and helps soften the garlic for fragrant rice.
- Minced garlic: The star aromatics that give the rice its irresistible savory punch.
- Long-grain white rice: Provides lightness and fluffiness, absorbing all those savory liquids beautifully.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Adds a flavorful base that keeps the rice moist without overwhelming saltiness.
- Milk: Creates a creamy texture in the rice, balancing the savory ingredients.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best—it melts into the rice and adds a nutty, salty climax.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that ties the chicken and rice flavors together seamlessly.
- Paprika: Lends a subtle smoky color and warmth to the chicken seasoning.
- Salt: Enhances and balances all flavors perfectly.
- Black pepper: Adds a little heat and complexity to the overall dish.
- Chopped fresh parsley: For a bright, herbal finish and pop of color on the plate.
How to Make Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning your boneless skinless chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This mix is your flavor foundation. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then carefully lay the chicken pieces in. Sear each side for 4 to 5 minutes, until the chicken turns a gorgeous golden brown and is cooked through. Transferring the chicken to a plate will let you focus on the rice without overcooking the meat.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Toast the Rice
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Stir it around for just 30 seconds until the scent fills your kitchen—this short sauté prevents the garlic from burning and getting bitter. Next, stir in the rice, letting it toast lightly for about a minute. This step enhances the rice’s nutty flavor that will marry perfectly with the Parmesan later.
Step 3: Simmer the Rice in Broth and Milk
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and milk, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any tasty browned bits from searing the chicken. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the rice cook undisturbed for 15 to 18 minutes until tender and creamy, absorbing all the savory, comforting flavors.
Step 4: Stir in Parmesan and Return Chicken
Once the rice is tender, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into a luscious, creamy consistency. Nestle the seared chicken pieces right back into the skillet, pressing them gently into the rice. Cover again and heat everything through for 2 minutes, allowing the chicken to warm back up and the flavors to fully meld together.
How to Serve Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing brightens this dish like a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. Its vibrant green color and fresh herby bite are the perfect contrast to the creamy, cheesy rice and the savory chicken. If you want an extra dash of flavor and crunch, consider adding a few toasted pine nuts or a light drizzle of good quality olive oil just before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully hearty on its own, but pairing it with crisp roasted vegetables or a simple green salad offers a refreshing balance. Steamed asparagus, sautéed green beans, or even some roasted cherry tomatoes bring natural sweetness and texture to the meal without overshadowing your Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or simply enjoy a bit of flair, serve this dish in individual shallow bowls with a sprinkle of Parmesan or parsley on top. Alternatively, use colorful plates to make the golden tones of the chicken and the creamy rice pop visually. For a family-style presentation, bring the skillet to the table and serve directly from it—nothing beats rustic charm and easy cleanup.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The rice tends to absorb more liquid as it cools, so it might be a bit denser but still delicious. Properly stored, it will stay good for up to three days.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, removing as much air as possible. Frozen leftovers should be consumed within two months for the best quality.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the rice’s texture. Covering while reheating helps keep the chicken juicy and the rice creamy, bringing back much of the original charm.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well too, but since they cook faster and tend to dry out more easily, reduce the searing time slightly and monitor closely to maintain juiciness in your Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or oil, and use a dairy-free milk alternative and a suitable cheese substitute or nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The dish will still be flavorful, though the texture might be a bit different.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Adding fresh greens like baby spinach in the last few minutes of cooking is a lovely way to sneak in some veggies. You can also experiment with mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas—just add them according to their cooking times to maintain their texture.
What type of rice works best?
Long-grain white rice is recommended because it stays fluffy and absorbs the flavorful liquids well. While you might try other types of rice, cooking times and texture could vary, so adjustments might be needed.
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can easily elevate the heat by adding crushed red pepper flakes when seasoning the chicken or stirring some into the rice while it cooks. Fresh chopped chili peppers also work well if you want to add a punch of spicy flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe is a true kitchen gem—simple enough for busy nights but special enough to feel like a treat. It combines flavors and textures that comfort and satisfy, showcasing how a few quality ingredients can become something truly memorable. I encourage you to try it soon and enjoy the cozy, creamy, garlicky magic in every bite!
Print
Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A delicious and creamy one-pan dish featuring tender seared chicken thighs nestled in garlic-infused Parmesan rice, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Rice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning to ensure they are flavorful.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Toast Rice: Stir in the long-grain white rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to lightly toast the grains and develop flavor.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and milk, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 to 18 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Finish Rice with Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the rice mixture turns creamy and well combined.
- Return Chicken to Skillet: Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the creamy rice. Cover and heat for an additional 2 minutes to warm the chicken through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Chicken breasts can be substituted, but reduce searing time to avoid overcooking.
- Add baby spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for an easy way to include greens.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
