Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Looking for a hearty and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare? This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe is a perfect choice! Combining tender chicken, savory garlic, and creamy Parmesan cheese, this dish offers a delightful burst of flavors. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or a comforting family dinner. Let’s dive into how you can make this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup (1 stick) butter
• 1 pound chicken tenders
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp salt, divided
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 ½ cups white rice (uncooked)
• ½ cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated or shredded)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken tenders with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet, searing it for 4-6 minutes per side, until browned and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and ½ tsp salt, then sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Increase the heat to medium-high and pour in the white wine. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently to reduce the liquid. Reserve 3 tbsp of the sauce for later use.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Add the uncooked rice to the remaining sauce in the skillet, stirring to coat the rice evenly. Pour in the chicken broth and season with the remaining ½ tsp of salt. Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is fully cooked and tender.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Chicken

Once the rice is tender, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the rice. Return the cooked chicken tenders to the skillet, placing them on top of the rice. Cover the skillet and remove from the heat. Let the dish sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, drizzle the reserved garlic butter sauce over the chicken for an extra burst of flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, for a touch of freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious meal with your family or guests!

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips

• Portion size: Serve the chicken tenders over a generous scoop of garlic Parmesan rice. You can garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
• Side dishes: Pair this dish with a light side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.
• Wine pairing: If you used white wine in the recipe, serve the same dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio) alongside the meal to complement the flavors.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent the rice from drying out. You can also microwave individual portions with a damp paper towel over the dish to retain moisture.
• Freezing: To freeze, transfer the chicken and rice to a freezer-safe container. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice fresh or as a delicious leftover!

Variations:

1. Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Add ½ cup of heavy cream to the sauce after cooking the wine for a creamier, richer texture.
• Stir the cream into the rice just before adding the chicken back to the skillet. The cream blends beautifully with the Parmesan for a more indulgent dish.

2. Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Brown Rice

• Swap white rice for brown rice for a healthier, fiber-rich version. Note that brown rice will require more liquid (about ½ cup more broth) and a longer cooking time (about 10-15 extra minutes).
• Follow the same instructions for searing the chicken and making the sauce, but adjust the rice cooking time accordingly.

3. Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Vegetables

• Add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Stir them in when adding the chicken broth to the rice.
• You can also roast vegetables separately and serve them on the side for added flavor and texture contrast.

4. Spicy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Rice

• If you prefer a spicy kick, increase the red pepper flakes to ½ teaspoon or more.
• You can also add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce for an extra burst of heat.

5. Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Quinoa

• Replace the rice with quinoa for a protein-packed alternative. Cook the quinoa in chicken broth following the package instructions, and proceed with the rest of the recipe.
• The nutty flavor of quinoa pairs well with the garlic and Parmesan, adding a modern twist to the classic dish.

6. Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken

• Add a zesty touch by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving. You can also stir 1 tablespoon of lemon juice into the sauce after the wine has reduced.
• The citrus balances the richness of the butter and Parmesan, creating a bright and refreshing flavor profile.

7. Herb-Infused Garlic Parmesan Rice

• For an herby twist, stir in fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or rosemary into the rice along with the chicken broth.
• The herbs add a fragrant note that complements the garlic and Parmesan beautifully.

8. Mushroom Chicken Garlic Parmesan Rice

• Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet after searing the chicken. Sauté the mushrooms with the garlic for added depth and a meaty texture.
• Mushrooms enhance the savory flavors, making the dish heartier and more satisfying.

These variations allow you to customize Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice based on your preferences, whether you want it creamier, spicier, or more nutritious!

FAQs:

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken tenders?

Yes, you can substitute chicken tenders with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They will require a slightly longer cooking time (about 6-8 minutes per side) but will still be tender and flavorful.

2. What can I use instead of white wine?

If you prefer not to cook with wine, you can replace it with an equal amount of chicken broth. You can also add a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to mimic the acidity of the wine.

3. Can I use pre-cooked rice for this recipe?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the method. Instead of cooking the rice with the chicken broth, add pre-cooked rice directly to the garlic butter sauce and stir in the chicken broth gradually to coat and reheat the rice.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Ensure you are using gluten-free chicken broth and that the Parmesan cheese is gluten-free. Also, verify that the wine or any alternative liquid is gluten-free.

5. How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to stir the rice occasionally while it’s cooking. If you notice it starting to stick, reduce the heat slightly and add a little more chicken broth or water to loosen it up.

6. Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Sear the chicken using the sauté function, then remove it. Sauté the garlic and other ingredients in the Instant Pot. Add the rice, chicken broth, and salt, then cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Once done, quick release the pressure, stir in Parmesan, and return the chicken.

7. What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or Grana Padano for a similar flavor. For a milder option, use shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese.

8. Can I add other seasonings to this dish?

Definitely! You can enhance the flavor with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil. For extra richness, you can also sprinkle a bit of paprika or smoked paprika on the chicken before searing it.

9. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice. Place it in an airtight, freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet or microwave.

10. How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, use a dairy-free butter substitute for the sauce and replace Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast, which provides a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

These FAQs cover various aspects of preparing, customizing, and storing Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice, ensuring a smooth cooking experience!

Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a satisfying and flavorful dish that brings comfort to your table. The combination of tender chicken, rich garlic butter sauce, and cheesy rice makes it a standout meal. Whether you’re hosting dinner or looking for an easy weeknight recipe, this dish is sure to impress. Try it out and let the amazing flavors of garlic and Parmesan delight your taste buds!