This easy one-pan dish features tender chicken cooked in a warm garlic and Parmesan sauce, all mixed with fluffy rice. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without all the mess!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer boneless skinless chicken thighs for their juicy texture, but breasts work well too. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, go with chicken breasts. You can also use tofu or seitan for a vegetarian version.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is my go-to. If you need a healthier choice, brown rice is great, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Quinoa can be a fun alternative too, providing extra protein!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon) can substitute, but fresh is always preferable. Love garlic as much as I do? Feel free to add more!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice creaminess. Grated Parmesan is ideal, but shredded works too. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese can stand in just fine.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly in This Dish?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is key. You want it browned on the outside for flavor, but still juicy inside. Here’s how:
- Season the chicken really well with salt, pepper, and spices. This enhances the overall taste.
- Heat the oil until it shimmers before adding the chicken. This helps create a nice sear.
- Don’t rush! Browning for about 3-4 minutes per side gives a great golden color.
- Always let it rest after cooking! This keeps your chicken moist and tender.
Easy One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll have it on the table in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Make sure to coat the chicken well so it’s tasty all the way through.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken and brown it on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This will give it a nice color and flavor. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.
4. Add the Rice:
Next, stir in the uncooked rice and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. This helps the rice absorb all that lovely garlic flavor.
5. Incorporate the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. This will help the rice cook perfectly.
6. Simmer:
After it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
7. Stir in Cheese and Butter:
Once everything is cooked, take the skillet off the heat. Stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese. The heat will melt them, creating a creamy sauce that coats the chicken and rice.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a bit of color and freshness. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious one-pan garlic Parmesan chicken and rice!
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 note that it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid—about 3 cups of broth and an additional 10 minutes of simmering. Just be sure to adjust as needed!
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor that works well, or you can try vegan Parmesan if preferred.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it from drying out.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can stir in some frozen peas, spinach, or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking. Just add them right after you return the chicken to the skillet to ensure they stay bright and slightly crisp.
