Description
Succulent chicken nestles perfectly with garlic parmesan rice in this irresistible comfort meal. Delicate herbs and rich cheesy notes create a simple yet elegant dinner that draws hungry families to the table.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb or 453 grams)
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Rice and Liquid Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
- 2 1/4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
Cheese and Garnish:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare a large skillet by heating olive oil over medium-high temperature until shimmering. Season chicken thoroughly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Carefully place seasoned chicken into the hot skillet, cooking for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer cooked chicken to a separate plate and let rest.
- Reduce skillet heat to medium and melt butter. Add minced garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until aromatic and lightly golden.
- Introduce rice to the skillet, stirring to coat completely with butter and garlic. Pour chicken broth into the pan, bringing mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cover skillet and cook rice for 15-18 minutes, allowing liquid to absorb and rice to become tender. Avoid lifting lid frequently during cooking process.
- Once rice is cooked, incorporate grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream, stirring until mixture becomes creamy and smooth.
- Slice rested chicken into diagonal strips and arrange atop the creamy Parmesan rice.
- Finish dish by garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or basil, and optionally sprinkle red pepper flakes for additional zest and heat.
- Serve immediately while rice is warm and chicken remains juicy.
Notes
- Maximize chicken flavor by seasoning generously and patting dry before cooking to ensure a golden-brown crust.
- Prevent rice from sticking by stirring occasionally and using a non-stick skillet with even heat distribution.
- Customize the dish by substituting chicken with shrimp, tofu, or plant-based protein for dietary preferences.
- Enhance creaminess by adding a splash of white wine or using Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 28-32 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg