This cozy one-pan garlic parmesan chicken and rice is a real winner! Juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich parmesan flavor mean dinner’s a breeze and cleanup’s even easier!
Honestly, I love how all the magic happens in one pan. Less mess means more time to enjoy those extra crispy bits of cheese that everyone fights over at the table. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I like using thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work too. If you’re watching calories, skinless is the way to go. Boneless or bone-in both taste great!
Rice: Long-grain white rice gives a nice texture. If you have brown rice, you can use it, just remember it might need more liquid and a longer cooking time. Quinoa is another quick substitute!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan melts beautifully, and its flavor is top-notch. If you’re in a pinch, canned parmesan is okay too, though it won’t be as rich. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free substitute!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor, but if you’re in a hurry, garlic powder could work. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon per garlic clove.
How Do I Ensure My Rice Cooks Perfectly Every Time?
The rice cooking part is crucial for this dish! Here are a few quick tips to avoid mushy or undercooked rice:
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent uneven cooking.
- Make sure to rinse your rice well to remove excess starch. This keeps the grains from sticking together.
- A gentle simmer is key! Too much heat can make your rice cook unevenly.
- Lastly, don’t lift the lid while it cooks—it keeps the steam inside!
Letting it sit after cooking allows the flavors to meld and makes a big difference!
One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
For the Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
For the Finish:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 30 minutes to cook, making your total time around 40 minutes. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight meal but impressive enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by generously seasoning your chicken thighs on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika. This will add great flavor to the chicken!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet or deep pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken. Sear each side until they are golden brown—about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Then, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside for now.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Toast the Rice:
Add the rinsed rice to the pan, stirring to coat it in the garlic and oil. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes; it should start to look slightly translucent.
5. Combine and Simmer:
Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine and then bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where your rice will soak up all that tasty flavor!
6. Cook the Chicken and Rice:
Return the seared chicken thighs to the pan, placing them on top of the rice. Cover the pan with a lid and cook on low heat for about 18-20 minutes. Keep an eye out; the rice should be tender and the chicken fully cooked.
7. Final Touches:
Once done, turn off the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and rice. Add the butter on top as well. Cover the pan again and let it sit for about 5 minutes so the cheese melts nicely.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your delicious dish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot. Enjoy every bite of this cozy one-pan meal!
Enjoy your delicious One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking! Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight or use the quick method of submerging it in cold water in a sealed plastic bag. This ensures even cooking and prevents any food safety issues.
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth works great too! Alternatively, you can use water, but consider adding a little extra seasoning or a bouillon cube for flavor. If you want a creamier texture, replace part of the broth with milk or cream.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to keep the rice from drying out and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice mixture ahead of time! Just skip the final step of adding cheese and butter. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove, add the cheese and butter, cover, and let it melt before serving. Enjoy the convenience!
