The aroma of garlic and parmesan wafts through the kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table. This Classic Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice dish delivers a comforting and hearty meal that’s ready in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners. The combination of tender chicken and creamy rice coated in savory parmesan creates a delightful and satisfying experience.
Perfect for busy families or those seeking a cozy dinner, this recipe can be made ahead and stored for quick reheating as needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tender chicken pieces cook evenly for perfect bites.
- Creamy, cheesy rice is comforting and filling.
- Quick prep time gets dinner on the table fast.
- Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and flavor.
What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious meal.
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lb chicken, cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces for even cooking
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
For the Rice
- 2.5 tbsp butter, preferably Kerrygold unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces
- 1.5 tbsp garlic, freshly minced
- 1.5 cups long-grain white rice
- 3 1/4 cups chicken broth, ideally Swanson Less Sodium for better salt control
For the Creamy Sauce
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, freshly shredded for a smooth melt
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
Use unsalted butter for better flavor control.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken: Use turkey or tofu for a different protein.
- Rice: Swap with brown rice for a healthier option.
- Parmesan cheese: Try pecorino romano for a sharper taste.
- Heavy cream: Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
How to Make It
Get ready to whip up this delicious meal in just a few simple steps.
Sear the chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chicken pieces, paprika, garlic salt, black pepper, and thyme. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the onion and garlic
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the diced onion. Cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add rice and broth
Stir in the long-grain white rice, making sure it’s well-coated with the butter. Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Finish with chicken and sauce
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Stir in the freshly shredded parmesan cheese and heavy cream, mixing until melted and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Garnish and serve
Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for garnish. Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: No, the rice texture may change.
Reheat: Microwave on medium heat for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
Tips for Best Results
- Use freshly shredded parmesan for a creamier texture.
- Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
- Don’t skip the garlic; it adds essential flavor.
- Let the dish sit briefly before serving for better consistency.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
- Great with warm crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
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