This Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice is a comforting, one-pan meal featuring juicy, pan-seared chicken coated in a rich garlic butter sauce served over creamy, cheesy Parmesan rice. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort and is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan recipe for easy cleanup
- Juicy chicken cooked in a flavorful garlic butter sauce
- Creamy Parmesan rice with a rich, cheesy texture
- Quick and easy—ready in under 40 minutes
- Perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Olive oil or butter
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Paprika (optional, for extra color and flavor)
For the Parmesan Rice:
- Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice
- Chicken broth
- Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- Unsalted butter
- Heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
- Sear the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes per side). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the rice: Add uncooked rice to the pan and stir until coated in the garlic butter. Pour in the chicken broth, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and a splash of heavy cream (if using) until the rice is creamy and cheesy.
- Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Garlic Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken for brightness.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Stir in spinach, peas, or steamed broccoli for added nutrients.
- Herb Twist: Add fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary for an herbal flavor boost.
Storage/Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid, so adjust accordingly.
What’s the best cut of chicken for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier, but chicken breasts also work well for a leaner option.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, substitute butter with dairy-free margarine and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking?
Stir occasionally while cooking and ensure there’s enough broth in the pan to prevent sticking.
Can I use pre-cooked rice?
Yes, but reduce the broth by half and shorten the cooking time—just enough to heat the rice through.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer the sauce uncovered for a few extra minutes, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the chicken broth and seasonings used are gluten-free.
Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has a richer flavor, but pre-grated works in a pinch.
What can I serve with this dish?
A side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this meal.
Can I cook this in the oven instead?
Yes, after searing the chicken, finish cooking it in a 375°F (190°C) oven while the rice cooks separately.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or casual family dinners. The juicy chicken and creamy, cheesy rice create the perfect balance of flavors in every bite. Serve it with a side of vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete and satisfying meal!
PrintGarlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice is a comforting, one-pan meal that’s rich, creamy, and full of bold garlic flavors. Juicy chicken is cooked in a buttery garlic sauce and served over creamy, cheesy rice for the ultimate cozy dinner. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéed, Simmered
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (jasmine or basmati works well)
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the chicken:
- Season the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the chicken and sear for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C/165°F).
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside, covering it to keep warm.
2. Make the garlic butter sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and add the minced garlic.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the garlic butter over the chicken, and cook for another minute.
3. Prepare the Parmesan rice:
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add the rice and stir for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Pour in the chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until creamy and combined.
4. Serve:
- Plate the Parmesan rice, then top with the garlic butter chicken.
- Drizzle extra garlic butter sauce from the skillet over the top.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Add steamed broccoli or green beans for a balanced meal.
- Swap chicken thighs for a juicier cut if you prefer dark meat.
- Use brown rice for a healthier version (adjust cooking time accordingly).