This One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice is a cozy meal that’s ready in no time! Juicy chicken and fluffy rice come together with a tasty garlic and cheese twist. Yum!
You’ll love how everything cooks in one pan. Less mess means more time to relax! I often make this when I want something hearty but easy—perfect for a busy weeknight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay juicy. If you prefer white meat, go for chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out.
Rice: Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe, but you can swap it with jasmine or basmati rice for a slightly different flavor. Just adjust the cooking time if needed!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a wonderful kick! If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but use a smaller amount—about 1/2 teaspoon for each clove.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan will melt better than pre-grated. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is a great choice to control salt levels. For a vegetarian version, vegetable broth works nicely!
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Is Cooked Just Right?
Cooking chicken to the right temperature is key for juiciness. Here’s how you can nail it:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help it sear and brown nicely.
- Don’t rush the searing process; give it 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for a golden-brown color!
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (75°C).
- If it’s not cooked through after 20 minutes with the rice, cover the pan again and let it cook a few more minutes. Always check again!
One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Rice Mixture:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be enjoying your delicious One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. This adds a lot of flavor!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear until it’s golden brown on both sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same pan, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant but be careful not to burn it!
4. Toast the Rice:
Add the rice to the pan, stirring to cover it with the garlic and oil. Toast the rice slightly for about 1-2 minutes, which helps enhance its flavor.
5. Add the Broth and Cheese:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese to melt into the rice for an extra creamy texture.
6. Cook the Chicken with Rice:
Return the seared chicken to the pan, placing it on top of the rice. Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Finishing Touches:
Once cooked, remove the pan from heat. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice warm for a delightful meal. Enjoy every bite of your delicious, comforting dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first! Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight, or if you’re short on time, you can use a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quick thaw. Make sure to pat it dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or even water, although the flavor will be less rich. Adding a bit of salt and extra herbs can enhance the taste if you choose to use water.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist during reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning or even stirring in some diced jalapeños for extra flavor and spice. Adjust to your taste!
