Chicken Garlic Parmesan Rice: Creamy, Savory Comfort in Every Bite
Looking for a hearty and delicious meal that’s quick enough for weeknight dinners but flavorful enough to feel like a treat? Chicken Garlic Parmesan Rice is here to deliver just that. With tender chicken, savory garlic, and a creamy Parmesan sauce all served over fluffy rice, this dish is the perfect combination of comfort food and simple elegance. Plus, it’s all made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
The garlic infuses the chicken and rice with its rich flavor, while the butter and Parmesan turn everything into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or making something special for yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients (Serves 4):
1 pound chicken tenders (or chicken breasts, cut into strips)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 stick butter (8 tablespoons)
4 cloves garlic, minced (or more for garlic lovers!)
1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
2 cups chicken broth (or use water in a pinch)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
½ cup heavy cream (for a rich, creamy sauce)
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Chicken Garlic Parmesan Rice
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season your chicken tenders with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1–2 minutes, until it’s fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Make the Rice Base
Add the rice to the pan and stir to coat it in the butter and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the rice cook for 15–18 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Keep an eye on it, and if necessary, add a splash more broth or water during cooking.
Step 4: Add Cream and Parmesan
Once the rice is cooked, add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the pan. Stir to combine and create a rich, creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or garlic powder, if needed.
Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Rice
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice. Let everything simmer together for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to reheat. If you like a bit more sauce, feel free to add an extra splash of cream or broth to achieve your preferred consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is perfectly cooked and the chicken is hot, serve the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even some crusty garlic bread.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
One-pan wonder: Less mess and less cleanup — just cook everything in one pan!
Creamy & cheesy: The creamy Parmesan sauce is rich and indulgent, yet balanced by the savory chicken and garlic.
Quick and easy: Perfect for busy nights, it’s ready in about 30 minutes.
Flavor-packed: Garlic, butter, and Parmesan bring bold, savory flavors to the table.
Comfort food: It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’ll leave you feeling cozy and full.
Variations to Try
Chicken thighs: Swap in chicken thighs for even juicier, more flavorful meat.
Add veggies: Throw in some sautéed spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms to make the dish more colorful and nutritious.
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
Lemon zest: Brighten the dish with a little fresh lemon zest or juice before serving.
Make it lighter: Use half-and-half or skim milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Extra cheesy: Stir in a bit of mozzarella or Gouda for added creaminess and melty goodness.
Tips for Success
Don’t skip rinsing the rice — this removes excess starch and ensures fluffy grains.
Use good quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor — avoid the pre-grated stuff if possible.
Adjust the broth-to-rice ratio based on your rice type. Long-grain white rice usually requires a 1:2 ratio of rice to liquid.
Rest the chicken before slicing to lock in juices and avoid drying it out.
FAQ: Chicken Garlic Parmesan Rice
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the rice ahead of time and reheat it with a splash of broth or cream. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use a dairy-free cream (like coconut cream) and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
Q: What can I serve it with?
A: Serve this dish with a light salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Roasted asparagus or green beans pair nicely.
Q: Can I freeze this meal?
A: It’s not ideal for freezing due to the cream-based sauce, which might separate upon reheating. If you need to freeze it, consider making the chicken and rice separately, then combine after thawing.
Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
A: Absolutely! Just cut it into strips or cubes to cook evenly and quickly. You can also use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Garlic Parmesan Rice is the perfect balance of rich, creamy, and savory goodness, all in one dish. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a dish that’ll wow your guests, this meal has it all. With a quick cook time and minimal cleanup, you’ll be coming back for seconds (and thirds!).
Enjoy the creamy, cheesy perfection with every bite — it’s guaranteed to be a hit!