Description
This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a creamy, flavorful one-pan meal that combines tender, seasoned chicken breasts with a rich and cheesy garlic-infused rice. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, the dish melds Italian-inspired seasonings and Parmesan cheese with comforting chicken broth and heavy cream to create a satisfying, savory entrée.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Rice and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season evenly with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning for a well-rounded flavor base.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring they’re fully cooked but still juicy. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it to preserve its delicate flavor.
- Toast the Rice: Stir the rinsed rice into the garlic butter and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly for enhanced nutty flavor.
- Cook the Rice: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the cooked rice, mixing until everything is combined and creamy.
- Combine and Garnish: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the rice. Spoon the creamy rice around the chicken, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top, and serve warm for a comforting, complete meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor and nutrition, sautéed mushrooms or spinach can be stirred into the rice before adding the chicken broth.
- Slicing the chicken before serving makes plating easier and provides a nicer presentation for guests.
