If you are craving a meal that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, the Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish combines tender, flavorful chicken tenders with a rich, garlicky Parmesan rice that’s creamy and bursting with savory notes. The secret lies in the layers of buttery garlic, a hint of white wine, and a touch of red pepper flakes that awaken your taste buds while maintaining a comforting balance. Whether you’re looking for an impressive weeknight dinner or a dish to share with friends, this recipe delivers all the cozy vibes and satisfying flavors in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe is how simple, yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients come together to create layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each item plays a crucial role, from the aromatic garlic to the creamy Parmesan and the perfectly cooked chicken.
- Olive oil: Essential for searing the chicken to golden perfection, adding a subtle fruity richness.
- Butter: Adds a luscious creaminess that helps create that silky texture in the rice.
- Chicken tenders: Tender and quick-cooking, they soak up the garlic and seasoning beautifully.
- Garlic powder: A gentle garlic boost that seasons the chicken evenly.
- Minced garlic: Packs an aromatic punch, infusing both rice and sauce with fresh garlic flavor.
- Salt: Divided use ensures balanced seasoning throughout the dish.
- Red pepper flakes: A subtle heat that adds depth without overpowering the comforting flavors.
- White rice: The tender base of the dish, absorbing all the savory juices for maximum flavor.
- Dry white wine: Like Pinot Grigio, it adds delicate acidity and complexity to the sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Shredded or grated, it melts into the rice, giving it a rich, nutty finish.
- Chicken broth: The cooking liquid that ensures the rice is packed with savory goodness.
- Black pepper: Freshly ground, for seasoning and a slight kick.
How to Make Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While it warms, season the chicken tenders with garlic powder, half the salt, and some freshly ground black pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the pan and sear each side until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. This quick sear locks in juices and flavors, giving the chicken a lovely crust. When done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Garlic Parmesan Base
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and the remaining salt, letting the garlic gently soften and become fragrant without browning, about 2 minutes. This step is where the dish really starts to awaken, as the garlic and pepper flakes infuse the butter with their aromas. Pour in the white wine and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and concentrate its flavor. Don’t forget to reserve a bit of this lovely sauce for drizzling later.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Now add the white rice to the pan, stirring it to coat every grain with the buttery, garlicky mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cover the skillet. Let the rice cook gently until tender and the liquid is absorbed, usually around 15-18 minutes. This gentle simmer infuses every grain with the rich flavors you’ve built so far.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Chicken
Once the rice is tender, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Arrange the seared chicken tenders on the rice, cover the skillet again, and let it all rest off the heat for about 5 minutes. This resting time lets the cheese melt fully into the rice and the chicken stay juicy and warm.
Step 5: Add the Final Touch
Before serving, drizzle the reserved garlic-wine sauce over the chicken tenders for an extra burst of flavor. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra Parmesan can add a fresh, eye-catching finish. Your Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a light sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese add vibrant color and a burst of freshness on top. A little cracked black pepper or even a lemon wedge on the side can brighten up the dish further, balancing the creamy richness with a subtle tang.
Side Dishes
To complement the hearty Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe, consider light, crisp sides like a fresh arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and a zesty vinaigrette. Roasted or steamed veggies such as asparagus or green beans add vibrant green color and keep the meal balanced and wholesome.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken tenders sliced over the rice in individual bowls with a drizzle of sauce artistically swirled on top. Or you can offer it family-style in a rustic skillet to bring everyone together, making for a warm and inviting presentation that encourages sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, pack any leftovers into airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. The chicken will remain juicy and the rice will soak up even more flavor overnight, making for a delightful second serving within 3 to 4 days.
Freezing
This dish freezes well! Separate the chicken from the rice for best results, placing them in freezer-safe containers. When frozen, it keeps nicely for up to 2 months. To thaw, transfer the containers to the fridge the night before you want to enjoy the leftovers.
Reheating
Warm your frozen or refrigerated Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to revive the creaminess of the rice. Cover the pan or container to trap steam, ensuring the chicken stays tender and the rice moist.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of chicken instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work wonderfully. Just adjust cooking time so the chicken is cooked through but still juicy.
What type of rice is best for this recipe?
Long-grain white rice is ideal because it cooks up fluffy and separate. Avoid instant or minute rice as they won’t absorb the flavors as well.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, by ensuring your chicken broth and wine are gluten-free, this recipe naturally fits a gluten-free diet without any changes to the method.
Is the white wine essential?
While the wine adds lovely depth and acidity, you can substitute with extra chicken broth or a splash of white grape juice if you prefer to avoid alcohol.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper when sautéing the garlic. Fresh jalapeños finely chopped would also add a nice heat.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe is one of those special meals that feel like an instant classic every time you make it. Easy enough for a busy weeknight but flavorful enough to become a family favorite, it’s warm, cheesy, and perfectly garlicky. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch it become your go-to comfort dish with just the right mix of elegance and hominess.
Print
Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe is a delicious, comforting one-pan meal featuring tender seared chicken tenders seasoned with garlic and pepper, served over flavorful, creamy Parmesan-infused rice simmered in white wine and chicken broth. It’s an easy-to-make, savory dish perfect for weeknight dinners that combines rich buttery garlic, a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, and cheesy goodness for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
Rice
- ½ cup butter (1 stick)
- 1 ½ cups white rice (uncooked)
- ½ cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated or shredded)
Instructions
- Prepare and Sear Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken tenders with garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Sear the chicken in the hot skillet until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Build Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and the remaining ½ teaspoon salt. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the dry white wine and cook for 5 minutes to reduce slightly, allowing the flavors to meld. Reserve a small amount of this sauce to drizzle over the chicken later.
- Cook the Rice: Add the uncooked white rice to the skillet with the garlic butter mixture and stir to coat each grain. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the rice simmer until tender and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Combine and Rest: When the rice is tender, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Arrange the seared chicken tenders on top of the rice. Cover the skillet and allow everything to rest off the heat for about 5 minutes so the cheese can melt and flavors combine.
- Serve and Garnish: Drizzle the reserved garlic wine sauce over the chicken tenders. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken and rice dish.
Notes
- Using dry white wine adds depth of flavor; if you prefer, substitute with additional chicken broth.
- Make sure to not burn the garlic during sautéing as it can become bitter.
- For a creamier texture, you can stir in a splash of cream or additional butter with the Parmesan.
- If you prefer spicier food, increase the red pepper flakes to your taste.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting texture.
- Allowing the dish to rest covered helps the rice absorb flavors and the cheese to melt perfectly.
