Dinner Recipes

February 4, 2026

One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Creamy Rice Delightful Meal

Name: One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Creamy Rice Delightful Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 2 cups rice; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnish

📊

Difficulty Easy

Recipe by

Mia

36 Views • 8 min read

One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Creamy Rice Delightful Meal

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Hey there, friend! I can’t wait to share my One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Creamy Rice with you. This dish is an absolute game-changer for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet totally satisfying. Picture this: juicy chicken breasts, golden and flavorful, nestled in a bed of creamy rice infused with garlic and rich parmesan. And the best part? You only need one pan! It’s simple to whip up and cleans up in a snap. Trust me, this meal is not just easy; it’s a hug on a plate. Let’s dive into the deliciousness together!

Ingredients List

4 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
2 cups rice (uncooked)
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

How to Prepare One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Creamy Rice

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. You want that oil nice and warm to get a lovely sear on the chicken!
While the oil is heating up, season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy; this is where the flavor begins!
Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot pan. Brown them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for that gorgeous golden color to develop.
Once the chicken is beautifully browned, add the minced garlic to the pan. Cook it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but be careful not to burn it—garlic can get bitter if it overcooks!
Next, stir in the uncooked rice and pour in the chicken broth. Give everything a good mix to combine all those delicious flavors.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and has absorbed all that savory broth.
Once the rice is ready, stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it melts beautifully into the creamy rice. Oh, my goodness, the aroma is unbelievable!
Finally, garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving. Trust me, it makes a big difference!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: This dish comes together in just about 40 minutes, so it’s perfect for those busy evenings when time is tight.
One-pan cleanup: With everything cooked in a single pan, you’ll spend less time scrubbing dishes and more time enjoying your meal!
Flavorful and creamy: The combination of garlic, parmesan, and chicken broth creates a rich, creamy flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Family-friendly meal: Kids and adults alike will adore this dish—it’s hearty and satisfying, making it an instant family favorite!
Gluten-free option: With just a few simple swaps, you can easily make this dish gluten-free and still keep all that incredible flavor.

Tips for Success

Ensure chicken is cooked through: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This guarantees it’s juicy and safe to eat!
Adjust seasoning according to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste as you go and feel free to add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of garlic powder for an extra flavor boost.
Add a splash of cream for extra richness: If you want to take it over the top, stir in a splash of heavy cream right before serving. It makes the dish even creamier and oh-so-decadent!
Don’t rush the simmer: Allowing the rice to simmer fully in the broth is crucial for that creamy texture. Resist the urge to lift the lid too often; let it do its magic!
Consider your rice type: Using long-grain white rice works best, but if you want to experiment, just keep an eye on cooking times if you go for other varieties.

Variations

Substitute chicken with turkey: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using turkey breasts instead of chicken. It’s just as delicious and offers a slightly different flavor!
Add vegetables: Boost the nutrition and color by tossing in some fresh spinach, broccoli, or even peas during the last five minutes of cooking. They’ll steam perfectly and add a lovely crunch!
Use different types of cheese: While parmesan is a classic, don’t hesitate to experiment! A mix of mozzarella for stretchiness or sharp cheddar for a kick can transform this dish into something uniquely yours.
Make it spicy: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños with the garlic. It’ll give a delightful kick to every bite!
Go for a herb twist: Swap out the parsley for fresh basil or thyme. The fresh herbs will add a whole new layer of flavor that brightens up the dish!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of my One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Creamy Rice. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands and quantities you use, but this should give you a good idea:

Calories: 450
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 700mg
Cholesterol: 100mg

Remember, this dish is not just delicious but also packed with protein to keep you feeling satisfied! Adjust the ingredients as needed to fit your dietary preferences, and enjoy every tasty bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice can be used, but keep in mind it has a longer cooking time. You’ll need to simmer it a bit longer—about 35-40 minutes—so adjust your timing accordingly. Just make sure to check that it’s tender before serving!

How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super easy! Just let the dish cool down, then transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it from drying out.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
You bet! This one-pan wonder is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare everything up to the point of adding the cheese, then store it in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to eat, just heat it up, stir in the cheese, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go in no time!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up this scrumptious One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Creamy Rice, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to really elevate your meal! Here are some of my favorite ideas:

Garlic Bread: You can never go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s perfect for soaking up any extra creamy goodness left on your plate.
Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the chicken and rice.
Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed veggies like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus not only look beautiful on the plate but also add a nutritious crunch. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare!
Coleslaw: A zesty coleslaw can bring a nice crunch and a bit of tang, which pairs wonderfully with the creamy rice. It adds a delightful contrast!
Roasted Potatoes: For those who want a heartier side, crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a comforting and filling accompaniment that everyone will love.

These sides will enhance your dining experience and ensure your meal is not just filling but also a colorful and delightful feast. Enjoy every bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers from my One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Creamy Rice is super simple, and I want to make sure you enjoy every last bite! First off, let the dish cool down to room temperature before you store it. This helps prevent condensation from forming in the container, which can make the rice soggy.

Once it’s cooled, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to label it with the date so you know when it was made!

When it’s time to reheat, you’ll want to keep that creamy goodness intact. I recommend reheating it on the stovetop over low heat. Just add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen it up and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until it’s warmed through. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works too—just cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a paper towel to trap the moisture and heat it in short bursts, stirring in between.

And there you have it! Easy storage and reheating methods to keep your meal delicious for days. Enjoy your tasty leftovers just as much as the first time around!