If you’re looking for a cozy, flavor-packed meal that brings pure comfort to the table, look no further than Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken. This one-pan wonder is filled with juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, fluffy rice, and a swoon-worthy Parmesan finish—all tied together with the silkiest cream sauce. Whether you’re ending a busy day or gathering the family for a special dinner, Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken always delivers hearty satisfaction with every cheesy, garlicky bite.

Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken truly lies in its simple ingredients, each one chosen with intention to maximize taste and create the perfect skillet meal. From the savory depth of the chicken to the nutty kick of Parmesan, here’s how each player contributes to the show.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts or thighs work equally well—thighs give a bit more juiciness, while breasts stay nice and tender if you don’t overcook.
Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken beautifully, adding a little richness and flavor with every bite.
Butter: A knob of butter creates a silky base for sautéing onions and increases the depth of flavor.
Onion: Finely chopped so it virtually melts into the rice while adding a subtle sweetness and aromatic base.
Garlic: The star of the show—pungent and comforting, it infuses every grain of rice with warming flavor.
Long grain white rice: Provides the perfect texture—fluffy but sturdy enough to soak up all those incredible flavors.
Chicken broth: Instead of water, using broth gives the rice an extra savory boost that ties the dish together.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty, cheesy finish that makes the dish irresistible.
Heavy cream (optional): For those who want an even creamier, silkier sauce—just a splash makes a difference.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing and elevating all the flavors—don’t forget to taste and adjust!
Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness just before serving.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Start by tossing your chicken pieces with a good shower of salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Let it sear undisturbed for a couple minutes to get that delicious golden crust, then stir and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside, letting all those pan juices hang out in the skillet—they’ll add extra flavor to the rice.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion, and let it sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes, until soft and translucent. Now comes the hero: add the minced garlic and cook just 30 seconds, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells absolutely divine!

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Pour the rice into the skillet, stirring to coat every grain in that buttery, garlicky goodness. Toasting the rice for 1 to 2 minutes helps add a subtle nutty flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy as it cooks—totally worth the extra step.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Now for the cozy part: pour in the chicken broth and bring the whole mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet, lower the heat, and let the rice cook for 15 to 18 minutes, soaking up all those beautiful flavors until it’s fluffy and tender. Open the lid and take in the comforting aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan, Cream, and Chicken

Once the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan and, if you’re feeling luxurious, the heavy cream. Gently fold in the cooked chicken and mix until it’s all creamy and heated through. Taste and adjust your salt and pepper—this is your moment to make it perfect just for you.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken

Garnishes

Top off Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and a light, herbal note. If you love a touch of brightness, add a squeeze of lemon or a pinch of crushed red pepper for a gentle kick.

Side Dishes

This dish is super satisfying on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed broccoli or a fresh green salad. A handful of roasted veggies or blistered green beans can balance the creamy richness of Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken and round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra-special touch, try serving Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken in individual bowls or wide, shallow dishes for a modern bistro feel. You can sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top, swirl in a pesto drizzle, or even spoon the mixture into halved roasted bell peppers for a fun, family-style presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken keeps beautifully! Allow leftovers to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors get even cozier as they meld together overnight.

Freezing

Want to freeze a batch for busy nights? No problem! Place cooled Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, simply spoon the rice and chicken into a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water, and warm over medium-low heat, stirring gently until heated through. You can also reheat single servings in the microwave—just loosely cover and add a spoonful of liquid to help keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and a bit more broth. The texture will be heartier, but the flavors of Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken will shine just the same.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can skip the butter, Parmesan, and cream, or opt for your favorite plant-based alternatives. The result will be a lighter version, but still packed with that signature garlic and chicken flavor.

Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?

Definitely! Chicken thighs are juicy and provide great flavor. Either cut works perfectly for Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken, so go with your preference or whatever you have on hand.

What’s the best way to add vegetables?

Stir in fresh baby spinach, peas, or even chopped roasted red peppers during the last few minutes of cooking. This gives you a fun, colorful twist and a nutritional boost to your Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken.

Can I make this recipe ahead for meal prep?

Yes! Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prepping. Portion into containers after cooling, store in the fridge, and enjoy a quick, delicious lunch or dinner all week long.

Final Thoughts

If you crave cozy, flavor-forward dinners that practically hug you from the inside out, you simply have to try Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken. With just one pan and a handful of ingredients, you’ll turn any night into a special occasion—so gather your loved ones and dig in!

Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken Recipe

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4.7 from 26 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A delicious and comforting one-pan meal, Garlic Parmesan Rice with Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, savory garlic, creamy Parmesan cheese, and fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Rice:

1 tablespoon butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long grain white rice
2¼ cups chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup heavy cream (optional for creamier texture)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Rice: In the same skillet, add butter and the chopped onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the rice and cook for 1–2 minutes to toast slightly. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Combine and Serve: Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 15–18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, heavy cream (if using), and cooked chicken. Mix until well combined and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of crushed red pepper. You can also stir in spinach or peas during the last few minutes of cooking for added veggies.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American