Description
This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe offers a flavorful, one-pan meal featuring tender seared chicken breasts nestled over savory garlic-infused Parmesan rice. Perfect for an easy yet impressive dinner, this dish combines simple seasoning, aromatic garlic, and creamy Parmesan cheese to create a comforting American classic that’s both gluten-free and satisfying.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Rice and Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Garnish (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to build a flavorful crust.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until aromatic but not browned, enhancing the rice’s flavor.
- Toast the rice: Stir in the long-grain white rice and toast it for 1 to 2 minutes in the skillet, coating it with the garlic and residual oils to develop a nutty taste.
- Cook the rice: Pour in the chicken broth, stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish the rice: Turn off the heat and stir the grated Parmesan cheese and butter into the rice, creating a creamy and rich texture.
- Combine chicken and rice: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the rice. Cover and let the dish rest for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld and the chicken stays warm.
- Garnish and serve: If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish before serving for a fresh color and mild herbal note.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer juicier, more flavorful meat.
- For a subtle spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- To achieve creamier rice, stir in a splash of heavy cream along with the Parmesan cheese.