This Easy One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice dish is a friendly meal that brings together juicy chicken and fluffy rice, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. Plus, garlic and Parmesan add a tasty kick!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using chicken thighs for their juiciness, but boneless skinless breasts work well too. If you’re short on time, consider using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove needed.
Rice: Long-grain white rice gives the perfect texture. You could swap it for brown rice—just note that you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and add more liquid.
Chicken Broth: Homemade is great, but store-bought is convenient. If you’re looking for lower sodium, use low-sodium broth or even water with seasoning.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a wonderful creaminess. You can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
Getting juicy chicken can be tricky, but a few simple steps can help.
- Make sure to sear the chicken properly; this locks in moisture.
- Don’t skip the resting time after cooking—it allows the juices to redistribute.
- Using a meat thermometer can help; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
By following these tips, your chicken should turn out tender and flavorful every time! Enjoy your one-pan meal!
Easy One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, leading to a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. While it warms up, season both sides of your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces to the pan. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown. After searing, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same pan, reduce the heat slightly and add the butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
4. Cook the Rice:
Add the rice into the pan and stir well to coat the rice grains with the garlic butter. This will help the rice absorb all those lovely flavors.
5. Combine Ingredients:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the remaining Italian seasoning. Stir everything together to combine nicely.
6. Add the Chicken Back:
Carefully return the seared chicken pieces to the pan, nesting them into the rice mixture until they’re partially submerged.
7. Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
8. Finish with Cheese:
Once finished cooking, remove the pan from the heat. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let it sit for about 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into the dish for an extra flavor boost.
9. Serve:
Finally, garnish your delicious one-pan meal with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy every flavorful bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Rice?
Yes, you can! While long-grain white rice is recommended for this recipe, you can also use jasmine or basmati rice. If you opt for brown rice, be sure to increase the cooking time and the amount of liquid used, as brown rice typically requires more water and longer cooking time.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’d like a lighter option or are vegetarian, you can use chickpeas or tofu instead! Just ensure to adjust the cooking time, cooking until the tofu is browned and heated through, or simply add the chickpeas at the same time as the rice.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry to bring back the creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make this dish dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese and use a dairy-free alternative, like nutritional yeast, for a cheesy flavor. Coconut cream can also be added for creaminess if desired!
