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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Skillet

creamy garlic parmesan chicken and rice skillet - featured image

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken and rice skillet is a comforting, one-pan dinner featuring juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, garlicky parmesan sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces (or use chicken thighs)
  • 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice (basmati or jasmine)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter sauce)
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a pinch each of dried basil and oregano)
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra parmesan, for serving

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and cut into 1-inch cubes. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large (12-inch) skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and just cooked through. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
  3. Lower heat to medium. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more, stirring constantly.
  4. Add uncooked rice to the skillet. Stir for 1-2 minutes until the grains are slightly translucent and toasty.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, if using. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Return seared chicken and any juices to the skillet. Stir to combine, ensuring chicken and rice are submerged. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes. Check rice for doneness at 18 minutes and add more broth if needed.
  7. When rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed, remove pan from heat. Stir in grated parmesan until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Thin sauce with a splash of broth if too thick.
  8. Sprinkle chopped parsley and extra parmesan over the skillet. Serve hot.

Notes

For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free broth and rice. For dairy-free, substitute coconut cream and vegan parmesan. Stir regularly to prevent rice from sticking. Add spinach or other veggies for extra nutrition. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken and rice, creamy skillet, parmesan chicken, one pan dinner, easy weeknight meal, garlic chicken, comfort food, 30 minute dinner