Chicken With Garlic Parmesan Rice
This Chicken With Garlic Parmesan Rice is a simple, one-pot meal combining tender chicken with creamy, cheesy garlic rice—perfect for busy weeknights!
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Lid
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup rice long grain or basmati
- 2 cups chicken broth for cooking the rice and chicken
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
- Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Set aside while you prep the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Brown the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or wide saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Immediately add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. The goal here is to develop flavor, not to cook the chicken through.
Step 3: Add Rice and Chicken Broth
- Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the pan and set aside temporarily. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir it into the garlic oil for 1-2 minutes to toast it lightly. Toasting the rice adds a nutty flavor that elevates the dish.Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and stir to combine all the flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken and Rice Together
- Place the chicken breasts back on top of the rice and broth mixture. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer undisturbed for about 18-20 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the broth and cook perfectly while the chicken finishes cooking through.
Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Garnish
- After 20 minutes, check that the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken breasts and set aside to rest for a few minutes.Stir the grated Parmesan cheese into the rice until it’s creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Serve
- Slice the chicken breasts and serve them on a bed of the garlic Parmesan rice. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. This dish is delicious on its own or paired with a crisp side salad or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Toast the rice before cooking to enhance its flavor and aroma.
- Use fresh grated Parmesan cheese for better melting and taste compared to pre-grated.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat with added broth to keep rice moist.