If you are looking for a comforting yet elegant dish that can become an instant favorite, this Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe is just what you need. It combines tender, perfectly seasoned chicken tenders with rich, flavorful rice infused with garlic, Parmesan, and a splash of white wine. Every bite feels like a warm hug, brightened by garlic’s aromatic punch and the nutty sharpness of Parmesan, making it an irresistible meal you’ll want to share again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and satisfying textures. Each item plays an important role: olive oil and butter create a rich base; garlic in both minced and powdered form layers the flavor; white wine and chicken broth add complexity; while Parmesan cheese gives that irresistible savory finish.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Essential for searing the chicken to golden perfection and adding a subtle fruity richness.
- Butter (½ cup or 1 stick): Melts into the rice for creamy texture and enhances the garlic’s aroma.
- Chicken tenders (1 pound): Tender and quick-cooking pieces that soak up all the seasoning beautifully.
- Garlic powder (½ tsp): Adds a gentle background garlic flavor to the chicken before searing.
- Minced garlic (2 tbsp): Provides fresh, punchy garlic notes sautéed in butter for depth.
- Salt (1 tsp, divided): Brings out the natural flavors of chicken, rice, and seasonings.
- Red pepper flakes (¼ tsp): A subtle touch of heat that wakes up the dish without overpowering it.
- White rice (1½ cups, uncooked): Acts as the comforting and tender base that absorbs all the luscious flavors.
- Dry white wine (½ cup): Adds a bright acidity and depth to the sauce, balancing the richness.
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated or shredded): Offers a savory, cheesy finish that melts beautifully into the rice.
- Chicken broth (3 cups): Provides moisture and savory flavor to cook the rice perfectly.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to taste for balancing every element.
How to Make Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season your chicken tenders generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. When the pan is hot, sear the chicken until it develops a beautiful golden crust and is cooked through, which should take about 4 to 5 minutes per side depending on thickness. Once seared, set the chicken aside; this step locks in all that juicy flavor and prepares it for the flavorful rice base to come.
Step 2: Create the Garlic-Butter Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic along with red pepper flakes and a pinch of salt. Sauté these until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, about 1 to 2 minutes, making sure it doesn’t burn. Pour in the dry white wine and let it simmer gently for around 5 minutes. This will reduce slightly and create a rich, aromatic sauce that adds layers of flavor when combined with the rice and chicken. Reserve a small amount of this sauce for drizzling later.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Stir the uncooked white rice into the skillet, coating each grain with the buttery, garlicky sauce. Then pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the rice simmer until it’s tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, usually about 15 to 20 minutes. This method ensures the rice becomes perfectly fluffy and infused with all those lovely pan flavors.
Step 4: Combine Parmesan and Chicken
When the rice is just about done, sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly over the top. Arrange the seared chicken tenders on top of the rice. Cover the skillet and let it stand off the heat for about 5 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt into the rice, making it delectably creamy, and ensures the chicken stays warm while marrying all the flavors together.
Step 5: Serve with Sauce and Garnish
Finally, drizzle the reserved garlic-butter sauce over the chicken to add a glossy, flavorful finish. You can optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley or additional Parmesan for a pop of freshness and a beautiful presentation. Serve hot and get ready to savor a truly comforting meal.
How to Serve Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh, vibrant garnishes can elevate this already delicious dish. Chopped parsley or basil adds a lovely green pop and fresh herbal note that brightens each bite. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese provides an irresistible, cheesy crust on the surface. Some lemon zest can also add a surprising zing that cuts through the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp, green vegetables such as sautéed spinach, roasted asparagus, or a simple mixed greens salad. The freshness and slight bitterness of greens balance the creamy, savory rice and tender chicken beautifully, creating a well-rounded meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the chicken and rice family-style in a large skillet right at the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. Alternatively, plate individual portions with the chicken fanned out over a mound of Parmesan rice, garnished neatly with herbs and a drizzle of sauce for a restaurant-quality look. For a fun twist, try serving the chicken on top of the rice-stuffed bell peppers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before storing to preserve the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly due to the Parmesan and rice. To freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist. Cover while reheating to trap moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out. Stir occasionally to heat evenly, and finish with a quick drizzle of reserved garlic butter sauce if you have some left for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust your broth and simmer time accordingly to ensure the rice becomes tender without drying out.
What type of white wine works best for this recipe?
Dry white wines like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay work beautifully. They add acidity and complexity without overpowering the dish’s delicate flavors.
Can I use chicken breasts or thighs instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts or boneless thighs can be used; just adjust the cooking time to make sure they are cooked through but still juicy. Cut breasts into strips for faster cooking if preferred.
Is this dish spicy because of the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a subtle warmth that enhances the dish without making it spicy. You can adjust the amount or omit them completely if you prefer no heat.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe is an absolute winner when it comes to delivering comfort and flavor with minimal fuss. It’s the kind of dish that feels special enough for guests yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try it out and enjoy the delightful combination of garlic, Parmesan, and perfectly cooked chicken all in one satisfying skillet meal.
Print
Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This mouthwatering Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe features tender chicken tenders seared to perfection and combined with flavorful garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of white wine. Cooked in one skillet, this comforting dish is ideal for a hearty family dinner and delivers a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and subtly spicy flavors.
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
Rice & Sauce
- ½ cup butter (1 stick)
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- 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)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken tenders evenly with garlic powder, half of the salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet and sear for several minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Sauté Garlic and Build Sauce: Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and the remaining salt. Sauté for a minute or two until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Pour in the dry white wine and cook for about 5 minutes to reduce and infuse flavor, reserving some of the sauce for later drizzling.
- Cook the Rice: Add the uncooked white rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the garlic and butter mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer gently until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, about 18-20 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Combine: Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the cooked rice. Arrange the previously cooked chicken tenders on top of the rice, cover the skillet again, and let the dish rest for about 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Drizzle the reserved garlic wine sauce over the chicken and rice. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve the dish hot, enjoying the rich and creamy garlic Parmesan flavors paired with perfectly cooked chicken and rice.
Notes
- Use dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio for best flavor; if preferred, you can substitute with additional chicken broth.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference or omit for a milder taste.
- Ensure to cook rice covered on low heat for even tenderness without burning.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated; add a splash of broth or water to loosen the rice if it becomes dry.
- For a gluten-free version, double-check that your chicken broth and Parmesan cheese contain no gluten additives.
