One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Dinner

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Thighs: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness and juiciness. If you can’t find thighs, chicken breasts work too, but they may be a bit drier. You could also try using bone-in chicken pieces, just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Olive Oil: It’s perfect for searing the chicken. If you need an alternative, avocado oil or vegetable oil can work just as well, and they both have a high smoke point.

Garlic: Fresh garlic truly elevates this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but I recommend using fresh for the best flavor. Around 1 teaspoon of garlic powder equals 1 clove of fresh garlic.

Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is lovely, but store-bought works perfectly too! If you’re low on broth, just use water, though it will be a bit less flavorful. For a lighter dish, use low-sodium broth.

Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parm adds a lovely creaminess. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can be good substitutes.

How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Juicy?

Getting chicken that’s both juicy and cooked through needs some attention. Here’s how to do it:

• Start by searing the chicken in olive oil on medium heat. This locks in moisture while creating a nice golden crust. Aim for about 3-4 minutes per side.
• Remove the chicken once browned, and let it rest while cooking the rice. This helps retain its juices.
• When you cover the pan with a lid while cooking the rice, it creates steam, ensuring the chicken remains moist as it cooks through.

Following these steps will help guarantee a tender and juicy chicken every time!

One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Dinner

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

For the Rice:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)

For the Creamy Finish:

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Dinner will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook. So, in just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Season the Chicken:

Start by seasoning your chicken thighs (or breasts) generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika if you like a hint of spice. This will add flavor to your chicken right from the start!

2. Sear the Chicken:

In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken. Sear them until they are golden brown on both sides, for about 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside for now.

3. Sauté the Garlic:

Next, lower the heat a bit to medium-low and add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté it for about a minute or until it’s fragrant. Watch closely, so it doesn’t burn—it should smell wonderful!

4. Add the Rice:

Now it’s time to add the rice to the pan. Stir it around to coat the grains with the garlicky oil. This will help infuse the flavor into the rice while it cooks.

5. Pour in the Broth:

Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.

6. Return the Chicken:

Place the seared chicken back on top of the rice. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer—this is where the magic starts!

7. Cover and Cook:

Cover the pan with a lid, letting it cook for about 18-20 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all the delicious flavors and cook until tender, while the chicken gets juicy as it finishes cooking through.

8. Create the Creamy Sauce:

Once the rice is done, take the chicken out of the pan. Now, stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese into the rice until it’s creamy and cheesy. It’s going to smell amazing!

9. Finish it Off:

Return the chicken on top of that luscious mixture, sprinkle with chopped parsley for freshness, and squeeze some lemon juice over the top for that zesty finish.

10. Serve and Enjoy:

Your hearty, flavorful One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Dinner is ready! Serve it hot and enjoy a comforting meal that you made all in one pan!

Delicious, simple, and filling—your family will love it! Enjoy your meal! 🍽️

FAQ for One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Dinner

Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Brown rice usually takes about 40-45 minutes to cook, and you’ll also need to increase the amount of chicken broth to 3 cups since brown rice absorbs more liquid.

What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar flavor. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to help re-moisten the rice.

Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas, spinach, or bell peppers. Sauté them with the garlic or stir them in with the rice to cook through. Just make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time, as some veggies may need less time to soften!