One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are my favorite for their juiciness, but breasts work too! If you’re vegetarian, try substituting with chickpeas or tofu for protein.

Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a fantastic flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work but use less—about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.

Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect here. If you want something healthier, brown rice is a good choice, but it will require more liquid and cooking time.

Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds creaminess. Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

How Do I Cook Everything Together Without Burning the Rice?

The key to cooking the chicken and rice perfectly together is controlling the heat and covering the pan. Here are some steps to follow:

• Always brown the chicken first, then remove it to avoid overcooking it.
• Add garlic right after browning and stir. Don’t let it burn, as it turns bitter.
• Coat the rice nicely in the garlic and oil to enhance flavor.
• Once you add the broth, stir gently but don’t mix too much. This keeps the rice from becoming mushy.
• Cover the pan tightly while cooking; this traps the steam and helps the rice cook evenly.

By following these tips, you’ll have a delicious dish without burnt rice! Enjoy your cooking!

One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For Cooking:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 1/4 cups chicken broth (or low sodium)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)

For Topping:

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice takes approximately 10 minutes of prep time and about 20-25 minutes of cooking time, for a total of around 35-40 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s great for busy weeknights!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Season the Chicken:

Start by seasoning the chicken pieces on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika. This will add flavor to the chicken as it cooks.

2. Brown the Chicken:

In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it is nicely browned but not fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside for now.

3. Sauté the Garlic:

In the same pan, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!

4. Add the Rice:

Next, add the rice to the pan. Stir it around to coat it well with the olive oil and garlic, letting it toast for a minute.

5. Pour in the Broth:

Now, pour in the chicken broth and add the Italian seasoning. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together evenly.

6. Return the Chicken:

Place the browned chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture. This way, the juices from the chicken will flavor the rice as it cooks.

7. Cover and Simmer:

Cover the pan with a lid, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

8. Add the Cheese:

Once the chicken and rice are done, remove the pan from heat. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over everything. Cover the pan again for a few minutes to let the cheese melt.

9. Serve and Enjoy:

Garnish with fresh parsley if you’d like, and serve the dish warm. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, garlicky One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice!

FAQ for 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 that it requires more cooking time and additional liquid. You’ll need to increase the chicken broth to about 2 3/4 cups and simmer for around 30-35 minutes instead of 18-20 minutes.

Can I Make This Recipe with Bone-In Chicken?

Absolutely! Just be aware that bone-in chicken may take longer to cook. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. You might need to simmer it a little longer than the recipe states.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the rice from drying out!

Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?

Definitely! You can add frozen peas, chopped broccoli, or bell peppers during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. Just stir them into the rice before covering the pan to allow them time to cook through.