This easy one-pan meal brings together juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and tasty garlic parmesan. It’s all cooked together, making cleanup a breeze!
I love how the flavors blend so well, plus there’s only one pan to wash. Perfect for busy nights when I want comfort food without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe since they cook quickly and stay juicy. You can swap them for thighs if you prefer dark meat or use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: This is great for searing the chicken. If you’re out, avocado oil or melted butter works well too, giving a different flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a must for that strong flavor. Garlic powder can be a substitute, but fresh is more aromatic. I always prefer fresh for the best taste!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds creaminess and flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Broth: Chicken broth enriches the rice. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or even water if you’re in a pinch.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy and the Rice is Perfectly Cooked?
The key to juicy chicken and perfectly cooked rice is not to overcook the chicken during the searing step. You want it golden on the outside but still slightly undercooked since it will finish cooking in the broth with the rice.
- Sear the chicken for just 3-4 minutes on each side, then set it aside.
- Stir the garlic and rice well to coat them before adding broth; this helps the rice absorb flavor.
- After cooking, let the dish sit covered for a few minutes—this helps lock in moisture.
Following these steps will make sure your chicken is tender and your rice is light and fluffy. Enjoy your one-pan meal!
Easy One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pan meal will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook. In total, expect to spend about 35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Pan:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to sear the chicken, so don’t rush this step!
2. Season the Chicken:
While the oil is heating, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. This will give them a great flavor!
3. Sear the Chicken:
Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the pan. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown but not cooked all the way through. This helps lock in the juices. When done, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
4. Cook the Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same pan. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant—don’t let it burn!
5. Toast the Rice:
Add the uncooked rice to the pan and stir it well to coat with the garlic and olive oil. Toast the rice for about 1-2 minutes to enhance its flavor.
6. Add the Broth & Cheese:
Pour the chicken broth into the pan and then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and butter. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
7. Combine Everything:
Once it’s boiling, place the chicken breasts back on top of the rice. Cover the pan with a lid to help everything cook evenly.
8. Cook it All Together:
Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes. Check that the rice is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9. Rest the Dish:
After cooking, remove the pan from heat and let it stand covered for about 5 minutes. This will let the flavors meld and the rice absorb any last bit of broth.
10. Serve & Garnish:
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Now it’s ready to enjoy!
Enjoy your creamy, garlicky Parmesan chicken and rice all in one easy pan! It’s a comforting and delicious meal your family will love!
FAQ for Easy One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. For brown rice, increase the chicken broth to 2 1/2 cups and extend the cooking time by 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, you can substitute it with grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different with these substitutes.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add diced vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach. Just toss them into the pan when you add the rice, ensuring they cook alongside it for added flavor and nutrients!
