This easy one-pan garlic parmesan chicken and rice is the perfect dish for busy nights. Juicy chicken pieces are cooked right with fluffy rice, all covered in yummy garlic and cheesy goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for their quick cooking. You can swap them for thighs for more flavor or use leftover cooked chicken, just add it towards the end to heat through.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that robust flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder will work, but start with a teaspoon as it’s less potent.
Rice: Long-grain white rice gives the best texture. You can replace it with jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant twist, or use brown rice for a healthier option—but adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds depth of flavor. Vegetable broth or water with a splash of soy sauce works as a good substitute if you want it vegetarian-friendly.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds creaminess. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano or even a mix of cheddar can work. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free substitute for a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Get Flavor Packed into the Chicken?
The chicken really needs to be seasoned well! Start by seasoning both sides with salt, pepper, and your herbs. Searing in the pan before adding it back with the rice helps lock in moisture and flavor. Just be careful not to overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed!
- Heat olive oil until it’s shimmering for a good sear.
- Don’t rush cooking. Let it get golden brown on each side for about 3-4 minutes.
- By setting it aside, you prevent it from overcooking while the rice absorbs all those delightful flavors.
Easy One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/2 cup frozen peas or spinach for added greens
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pan meal will take about 30-35 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes for prep and cooking the chicken, followed by about 20 minutes for simmering everything together. Simple and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat Up the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken, as this helps create a lovely golden crust.
2. Season the Chicken:
While the oil is heating, season your chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and half of the dried Italian herbs. This will help the chicken absorb those wonderful flavors.
3. Sear the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
4. Cook the Garlic:
In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn—just enough to release its amazing aroma!
5. Add Rice:
Next, add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir it around in the oil and garlic for about 1-2 minutes. This helps toast the rice and brings out its flavor.
6. Pour in the Broth:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the remaining herbs. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
7. Add Chicken Back:
Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 18-20 minutes, until the rice is fluffy and the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
8. Add the Cheese and Greens:
Once cooked, remove the lid and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and rice. If you want, stir in the optional frozen peas or spinach at this stage.
9. Final Cooking:
Cover the pan again and allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt and the greens to heat through.
10. Garnish and Serve:
When everything is ready, take off the lid and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, garlicky, cheesy chicken and rice!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, around 35-40 minutes. You may need to increase the chicken broth to about 3 cups and adjust cooking time accordingly. Always check for tenderness before serving.
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Breasts?
You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for added flavor and juiciness. Alternatively, for a quicker option, use shredded rotisserie chicken and add it towards the end just to heat through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to enhance the dish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
