Name: Chicken Garlic Parmesan Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken tenders; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 2 tablespoons olive oil; ½ cup butter (1 stick); 2 tablespoons minced garlic; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 teaspoon salt, divided; ½ cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio); 1½ cups white rice, uncooked; 3 cups chicken broth; ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shredded

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Rice is a comforting one-pan dish that combines tender chicken tenders with creamy, garlicky rice infused with Parmesan cheese. It’s a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish brings together simple ingredients to create a rich and savory meal. The chicken is seasoned and sautéed to perfection, while the rice absorbs the flavors of garlic, butter, and Parmesan, resulting in a creamy and delicious side. Plus, it’s all made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb chicken tenders
Salt and pepper to taste
½ teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ cup butter (1 stick)
2 tablespoons minced garlic
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon salt, divided
½ cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
1½ cups white rice, uncooked
3 cups chicken broth
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shredded

Directions

I start by heating olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. I season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then sauté them until they’re nicely browned and just cooked through. I remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, I add butter, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and ½ teaspoon of salt. I sauté the garlic for a couple of minutes on medium heat until it’s fragrant.
I turn the heat to medium-high and add the white wine, cooking and stirring for about 5 minutes. I remove and set aside 3 tablespoons of the pan sauce to use later.
I add the uncooked rice to the skillet with the remaining butter sauce, stirring well to ensure it’s completely covered. Then, I add the chicken broth and the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt. I bring the mixture to a low boil, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender, stirring several times while it’s cooking.
Once the rice is cooked, I sprinkle Parmesan over it and arrange the chicken tenders on top. I cover the skillet, remove it from heat, and let it stand for 5 minutes.
Before serving, I drizzle the reserved 3 tablespoons of pan sauce over the chicken tenders and garnish with parsley.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 4 servings. The preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and the cooking time is about 30 minutes, making the total time around 40 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes like to switch things up by using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of tenders for a richer flavor. For a spicier kick, I add more red pepper flakes. If I’m in the mood for a different grain, I substitute the white rice with jasmine or basmati rice, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Storage/Reheating

To store leftovers, I let the dish cool completely and then place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, I prefer using the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain the creamy texture.

FAQs

How can I make this dish without wine?

I replace the white wine with an equal amount of chicken broth mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice for a similar depth of flavor.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, I can use cooked chicken. I skip the initial sautéing step and add the cooked chicken when combining it with the rice, ensuring it’s heated through.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. I substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I freeze this dish?

I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the texture of the rice may change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

What can I serve with this dish?

I like to serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad to complement the rich flavors.

Conclusion

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken with creamy, flavorful rice. It’s a perfect meal for any night of the week, offering comfort and satisfaction in every bite.