Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a simple, delicious, and comforting meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. The chicken is tender and juicy, while the garlic parmesan rice is creamy, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s a fantastic recipe that brings together the perfect combination of savory flavors with minimal ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Full of flavor: The garlic, parmesan, and chicken are a winning combination.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your preferences by adding veggies or swapping out the protein.
• One-pan meal: Fewer dishes to wash as everything cooks in one skillet or pan.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts (or thighs)
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves
• Chicken broth
• Rice (long-grain or jasmine)
• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Rice: Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir it with the garlic for another minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it’s melted and well-combined with the rice.
5. Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 4 servings.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can easily add vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli to the rice while it’s cooking for a more balanced meal.
• Swap the Protein: Instead of chicken, you can use shrimp, pork chops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Herbs and Spices: Add some extra herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to the rice for more flavor depth.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

How can I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?

Make sure you have enough liquid and keep the heat low while the rice simmers. Stirring occasionally can also help.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook and may require more liquid.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be prepared ahead of time. Just store the chicken and rice separately and combine them when reheating.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well, but you can use bone-in chicken too. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the steps. Add pre-cooked rice after sautéing the garlic, along with the chicken broth, just to heat everything through.

Can I freeze this recipe?

It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the rice may become mushy after thawing. Freshly made or refrigerated leftovers are best.

How do I keep the chicken moist?

Make sure not to overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute parmesan with pecorino or romano, though the flavor will differ slightly.

What can I serve with this dish?

A light side salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans would complement this meal nicely.

Conclusion

Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and versatile enough for any night of the week. With tender chicken and creamy, garlicky rice, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Enjoy it as-is or add your own twist to suit your taste!

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