Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe

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Creamy, garlicky, and packed with flavor, this Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe is one of those satisfying meals that feels both indulgent and comforting. With tender, juicy chicken nestled over a bed of buttery rice infused with roasted garlic and Parmesan, every bite is a cozy combination of savory depth and rich texture.

Perfect for weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner, this dish brings restaurant-level flavor to your kitchen without the stress. The rice simmers in broth until tender, soaking up all the garlic and cheesy goodness, while the chicken cooks to golden perfection right on top. Simple ingredients, easy steps, and a result that looks as good as it tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

This dish is a one-pan wonder that balances rich comfort with ease. If you love garlicky sauces and creamy textures but don’t want to spend hours cooking, this recipe is your go-to. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, yet versatile enough to pair with light sides or salads. And leftovers? Even better the next day. The rice gets even more flavorful as it sits.

What Kind of Rice Should I Use?

The best rice for this recipe is long-grain white rice, like jasmine or basmati. These varieties stay fluffy while absorbing all the flavor from the broth and garlic. Avoid using instant or quick-cooking rice, as they can become mushy. If you prefer brown rice, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount, but the nutty flavor can be a great twist on the classic version.

Ingredients for the Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

What makes this Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice so delicious is how every ingredient plays a key role in building flavor. From the buttery base to the sharp Parmesan finish, each component brings richness and balance to the dish.

• Chicken thighs or breasts
• Long-grain white rice
• Garlic cloves
• Chicken broth
• Parmesan cheese
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley

Chicken thighs or breasts give the dish its protein and satisfying bite. Long-grain white rice serves as the starchy base, absorbing all the delicious garlic and Parmesan. Garlic cloves are the star, delivering depth and aroma. Chicken broth is essential for cooking the rice and enhancing flavor. Parmesan cheese brings a salty, nutty creaminess. Butter adds richness, while olive oil is used to sear the chicken and toast the garlic. Finally, salt and pepper season everything perfectly, and fresh parsley offers a pop of brightness to finish.

How To Make the Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken until golden on each side. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Toast the Garlic

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and garlic, cooking until fragrant and just golden. This step sets the tone for the whole dish.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the garlic butter. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Nestle the chicken back into the skillet over the rice.

Step 4: Simmer Everything Together

Cover the skillet and let it all simmer gently until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through. This usually takes about 20–25 minutes.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Parsley

Once the rice is done, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir gently. Top with fresh parsley just before serving.

How to Serve and Store This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

This meal is generous enough to feed four to six people, making it perfect for families or small dinner gatherings. Serve it hot straight from the skillet, spooning generous portions of rice and placing the seared chicken on top. A final dusting of fresh Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley make it both visually appealing and flavor-packed.

For storing leftovers, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to rehydrate the rice and prevent it from drying out. It also reheats beautifully in a covered skillet over low heat or in the microwave.

What to Serve With Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice?

Steamed Broccoli

The bright, slightly bitter notes of broccoli complement the creamy garlic rice without competing for attention.

Roasted Carrots

Caramelized and tender, roasted carrots add a pop of color and sweetness that balances the savory elements.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main dish.

Garlic Bread

You can never have too much garlic. A warm, buttery slice of garlic bread is the perfect companion.

Lemon Asparagus

Light and zesty asparagus with a squeeze of lemon cuts through the creaminess and adds brightness.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

These deeply roasted sprouts with a touch of tangy balsamic bring texture and depth.

Cucumber Tomato Salad

Cool and crisp, this salad adds a refreshing crunch that lifts the entire meal.

Creamed Spinach

Velvety spinach brings more creaminess and a hit of greens that pairs well with Parmesan rice.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice, here are a few more comforting chicken creations you’ll want to try next:

• Smothered Chicken and Rice for a Southern-inspired, gravy-laced version.
• Lemon Chicken Veggie Orzo Stir Fry for something zesty and colorful.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta if you want something snackable and rich.
• Low Carb Chicken Casserole for a keto-friendly, creamy bake.
• Easy Chicken with Zucchini Corn Garlic Sauce for a bright, veggie-packed skillet dinner.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the garlic? Add a splash of cream? Or maybe you snuck in some mushrooms?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dishes and hearty mains on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your next family favorite!

Conclusion

Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again. It’s simple, filling, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you serve it with veggies or just enjoy it as a standalone meal, this dish delivers comfort and flavor in every forkful.

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