This one-pan dish is a simple and delicious way to enjoy chicken, rice, and garlic Parmesan flavor all together. Cooked in one pot, it makes cleanup a breeze!
Who doesn’t love a meal with fewer dishes to wash? I also enjoy adding some veggies for color. It’s a comforting dinner that feels special yet is super easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use either chicken thighs or breasts. Thighs are a bit juicier and more forgiving if overcooked. If you want to go leaner, skinless chicken breasts are a good choice as well. For a vegetarian option, try using firm tofu or chickpeas.
Olive Oil: While olive oil is great for cooking, you can substitute with any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil. Coconut oil would also add a slight flavor twist if you’re interested!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too. Just use about a teaspoon to keep the taste balanced. I really love the aroma of fresh garlic, so I recommend using it whenever possible!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is a classic, but feel free to use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free substitute that adds a cheesy flavor for those avoiding animal products.
Rice: Long-grain white rice works perfectly, but if you want to use brown rice, just increase the cooking time and add a bit more liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.
How Do You Get the Chicken Juicy While Cooking in One Pan?
To keep your chicken juicy and avoid dryness, the initial searing is crucial! Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the skillet to medium-high before adding the chicken. This gives you a nice crust that seals in moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, as that can steam the chicken rather than sear it. Cook in batches if needed.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time. Searing for 3-4 minutes per side should achieve that golden color.
- Covering the pan later ensures that the steam cooks the chicken through without drying it out.
Following these steps will help you achieve that perfectly cooked chicken that’s tender and flavorful every time!
Easy One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Time Needed:
This delicious dish requires about 10 minutes for preparation and roughly 25 minutes for cooking, making a total of 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance their flavor as they cook. Set them aside while you heat the oil.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet or deep pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is warm, add your chicken to the pan. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes or until they’re golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be cooked through yet as it will finish cooking later. Once nicely browned, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same pan. Sauté it for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until it becomes fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Cook the Rice:
Add the rice to the garlic and oil mixture in the pan. Stir it well to ensure that the rice is coated with the garlic and oil, which will infuse it with lovely flavors.
5. Add the Broth and Seasonings:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning over the rice. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients well.
6. Combine Chicken and Rice:
Place the seared chicken back on top of the rice mixture. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer. This step will help cook the chicken while it infuses more flavor into the rice.
7. Cook Everything Together:
Next, cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
8. Stir in Butter and Cheese:
Once everything is cooked, take the pan off the heat. Add the unsalted butter and grated Parmesan cheese to the rice. Stir gently to combine and create a rich, creamy texture.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes if you want a touch of heat.
10. Enjoy!
Serve hot and enjoy the comforting and flavorful one-pan garlic Parmesan chicken and rice with your family or friends!
FAQ for Easy One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, follow the recipe as usual!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas to maintain a satisfying protein component. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and follow the same cooking instructions for delicious veggie versions!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Adjust the Seasoning?
Yes! Feel free to customize the seasonings according to your taste. Add extra herbs like thyme or rosemary for more flavor or include spices like paprika for a smoky twist. Just taste as you go to ensure it suits your palate!
