This One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice is a tasty and simple meal. Juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a burst of garlic flavor combine in one dish, making cleanup a breeze!
Who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself? I can just walk away while it simmers, and the smell brings everyone to the table. Perfect for busy nights when I want delicious without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great, but you can use thighs for more flavor. They also cook nicely and stay juicy.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is traditional, but you can substitute with brown rice. Just remember to adjust the cooking time and liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds that creamy flavor, but you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free option if you’re vegan.
Heavy Cream: This makes the dish extra creamy, but you can replace it with half-and-half, whole milk, or even a plant-based cream if you prefer a lighter option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. About 1 teaspoon of powder can work instead of 4 cloves.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken just right is key for this dish. You want it golden on the outside while being juicy inside. Here’s how:
- Start by heating the pan well before adding the oil and chicken. This helps create a nice sear.
- Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side without moving it around too much. This helps with that golden crust.
- After removing the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This keeps it juicy!
How to Make One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Rice and Flavor:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried basil
For Creaminess:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
For Garnishing:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 10 minutes for preparation and another 25-30 minutes for cooking. So, in total, it’s about 40 minutes from start to finish for this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This helps to add flavor to the meat.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and let them cook until they are golden brown on both sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes for each side. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
4. Add Rice and Broth:
Add the uncooked rice to the pan, stirring it to coat with the oil and garlic. Then, pour in the chicken broth and stir in the Italian seasoning.
5. Nestle the Chicken Back In:
Return the chicken breasts to the pan, placing them in the rice mixture. This will allow the chicken to cook thoroughly while infusing flavor into the rice.
6. Cook Everything Together:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
7. Stir in Cream and Cheese:
After cooking, remove the pan from the heat. Now, stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream until everything is creamy and well-combined.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley and, if you like a little heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, garlicky, Parmesan-infused chicken and rice!
Dig in and relish this comforting and satisfying meal made all in one pan!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but be aware that it requires more cooking time. Brown rice typically takes about 40-45 minutes to cook, so you’ll need to adjust the chicken broth and simmering time accordingly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can work as a substitute. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk or a plant-based cream substitute, adding a bit of seasoning to enhance flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes when cooking or stirring in a pinch of cayenne pepper with the chicken broth. You can also serve with a spicy sauce on the side!
