Are you looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare? Look no further than my Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice recipe! This dish combines tender chicken pieces with creamy rice, all infused with the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe will hit the spot. Let’s dive in and make your kitchen smell amazing!
Ingredients List
Chicken and Rice Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups (277.5 g) uncooked long-grain white rice
- 3 cups (24 ounces / 720 g) chicken broth
- ½ cup (50 g) Parmesan cheese, grated, plus extra for garnish
- ½ cup (119 g) heavy whipping cream
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Required Kitchen Tools
When preparing this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice, having the right kitchen tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you will need:
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: A deep skillet or sauté pan is perfect for cooking the chicken and rice together, ensuring even heat distribution.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to getting the perfect balance of flavors in this dish.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the ingredients without scratching your cookware.
- Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for dicing the chicken and onion, and mincing the garlic.
- Cheese Grater: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a wonderful texture and flavor to the dish.
Chicken and Rice Preparation
Preparing the Chicken
To start the dish, season the chicken pieces with paprika, garlic salt, and ground black pepper. This simple seasoning blend gives the chicken a flavorful kick that complements the creamy rice perfectly. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once the butter has melted, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Sautéing the Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the finely diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Sauté them over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can make it taste bitter. This step is crucial because it builds a flavorful base for the rice.
Cooking the Rice
Adding the Rice and Chicken Broth
Once the onion and garlic are nicely sautéed, it’s time to add the rice to the skillet. Pour in the 1 ½ cups of uncooked long-grain white rice. Stir the rice well to coat it with the onion, garlic, and butter mixture, allowing it to absorb the flavors. This step is essential for infusing the rice with the rich, savory taste of the dish.
Next, pour in the 3 cups of chicken broth. The broth not only provides the necessary liquid to cook the rice but also adds depth of flavor. Stir everything together to ensure the rice is evenly distributed in the liquid. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes. During this time, the rice will cook and absorb the flavorful broth.
Reintroducing the Chicken
After the rice has simmered and most of the liquid is absorbed, it’s time to bring back the cooked chicken. Add the chicken pieces back into the skillet, gently stirring them into the rice. Cover the skillet again and let everything cook together for an additional 5 minutes. This will allow the chicken to reheat and the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a cohesive dish.
By this point, your kitchen should be filled with the delicious aroma of garlic, chicken, and savory spices, hinting at the comforting meal that awaits.
Adding the Creamy Parmesan Finish
Incorporating the Heavy Cream and Parmesan Cheese
Now it’s time to give the dish its signature creamy texture and rich flavor. Reduce the heat to low, then pour in the ½ cup of heavy whipping cream. The cream adds a velvety richness to the dish, making each bite incredibly satisfying. Stir gently to combine the cream with the chicken and rice, ensuring that all the ingredients are well-coated.
Next, sprinkle in the ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. As the cheese melts, it will blend with the cream, creating a luxurious, cheesy sauce that binds everything together. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. This process should only take a few minutes, but it transforms the dish, adding layers of flavor and texture.
Letting the Dish Rest
Once the cheese is melted and the sauce is well-mixed, turn off the heat and let the dish sit for a couple of minutes. Allowing the dish to rest helps the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. This short resting period makes a big difference in the final texture and taste, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Garnishing and Serving
Adding the Finishing Touches
Now that your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice is creamy and perfectly cooked, it’s time to add the final touches. Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top for an extra layer of cheesy goodness. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the dish a delightful, slightly crispy topping as the cheese melts into the hot rice.
To add a pop of color and a burst of freshness, garnish with chopped fresh parsley. The parsley provides a mild, herbal note that balances the richness of the cheese and cream, making each bite even more enjoyable. If you like a bit of spice, you could also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice hot, straight from the skillet. This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a more balanced dinner. A side of crusty bread would also be a great addition, perfect for mopping up any extra creamy sauce.
This dish is not only perfect for a cozy family dinner but also elegant enough to serve guests. Its rich, comforting flavors and creamy texture are sure to impress anyone at the table.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice is a comforting, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, creamy rice, and the rich taste of Parmesan cheese, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s bound to become a regular in your meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe will satisfy everyone’s taste buds and make your kitchen the heart of the home.
Enjoy your delicious meal, and don’t forget to savor each creamy, cheesy bite!