This delightful dish features tender chicken cooked with fluffy rice, all flavored with buttery garlic and rich parmesan. Plus, it’s made in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze!
I love how the chicken turns out super juicy and the rice soaks up all the tasty goodness. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you want something quick but delicious! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are my favorite for their juiciness, but breasts work perfectly too. If you’re in a pinch, shredded rotisserie chicken can save time! Just add it towards the end so it warms up.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really boosts the flavor! If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon) can be a good substitute, but add it later during cooking.
Rice: Long-grain white rice keeps this dish fluffy. You can swap for jasmine or basmati rice for a slight variation in flavor. Just adjust liquid as needed if using brown rice—typically requiring more cooking time and liquid.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is essential for creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast, though the flavor will be different. Pecorino Romano is also a great alternative for a stronger taste.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream gives a rich texture, you could use milk or a non-dairy milk as a lighter option, though it won’t be as creamy. For a thicker consistency, try Greek yogurt, added just before serving.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken and Rice Are Cooked Perfectly?
The key to a successful one-pan dish is to manage the heat and timing. Start by searing the chicken to lock in juices, then adjust the heat for simmering the rice. Here’s how to get it right:
- Pat the chicken dry to ensure a good sear. Season well before adding to the hot pan.
- Sear on medium-high heat, but be careful not to cook through—just golden on both sides.
- When you add rice and broth, bring it to a boil for flavor, but then reduce to a low simmer to cook the rice evenly without burning.
- Cover the pan to trap steam, which helps the rice cook faster and the chicken stay moist.
- Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) before removing from heat.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken and fluffy rice every time!
How to Make Easy One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, totaling around 40 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown but still undercooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Add the Rice:
Add the rinsed rice to the pan and stir it well so it gets coated in the garlic oil.
5. Incorporate the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and add the remaining Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil.
6. Nestle the Chicken:
Return the seared chicken pieces to the pan, placing them on top of the rice mixture.
7. Cover and Simmer:
Cover the pan with a lid, lower the heat to a simmer, and let it cook for 18-20 minutes. The rice should be tender, and the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Add Cream and Cheese:
Once done, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream until everything is creamy and mixed well. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch, and serve warm. Enjoy your delightful one-pan meal!
Dig in and enjoy your comforting, savory dish that brings smiles to the table! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook! You’ll need to increase the cooking time to about 35-40 minutes and may need to add a little more chicken broth to fully cook the rice. Follow the package instructions for specific timing.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep it moist.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute it with half-and-half, whole milk, or even a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Just remember that the dish won’t be as creamy, but it will still taste delicious!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers. Just add them in with the rice so they have time to cook through while giving the dish extra flavor and nutrition.
