Name: How to Make Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice in One Pot
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs – 2 pieces, cut into bite-sized chunks. Chicken thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner.; Olive oil – 2 tablespoons. Can be substituted with avocado or vegetable oil.; Butter – 2 tablespoons. Adds richness; swap for ghee or margarine if preferred.; Garlic cloves (minced) – 4 cloves. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. Need tips on prepping garlic? Check out Easy Garlic Preparation Techniques.; Chicken broth – 2 cups. Low-sodium broth is recommended. Want to make your own? Here’s a great Homemade Chicken Broth Recipe.; Heavy cream – 1 cup. Can be replaced with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.; Uncooked long-grain rice – 1 cup. Jasmine or basmati rice works well, but avoid quick-cooking rice as it may turn mushy.; Grated Parmesan cheese – ½ cup. Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture. Learn more in this Parmesan Cheese Guide.; Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon. A mix of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary for extra flavor.; Salt & black pepper – To taste. Adjust according to your preference.; Fresh parsley (for garnish) – Optional but adds a fresh, vibrant touch.; Vegetables – Add spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for extra nutrients and a pop of color.; Spices & Heat – If you enjoy a little kick, mix in red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or cayenne.; Cheese Variations – Instead of Parmesan, try Asiago, Gruyère, or sharp cheddar for a different cheesy twist.; Crispy Topping – Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the dish for extra texture.; Protein Variations – Switch up the protein by using shrimp, turkey, or sausage instead of chicken.; Herbs for Garnish – Fresh basil or thyme can enhance both the aroma and overall flavor of the dish.

Description

A rich and creamy One-Pot Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice, combining tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and cheesy, flavorful rice in just 40 minutes. This easy, comforting meal is perfect for busy nights with minimal cleanup!

Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather all the necessary ingredients to ensure a smooth and hassle-free cooking experience. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will give you the best flavors and textures in your dish.

Essential Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs – 2 pieces, cut into bite-sized chunks. Chicken thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner.
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons. Can be substituted with avocado or vegetable oil.
Butter – 2 tablespoons. Adds richness; swap for ghee or margarine if preferred.
Garlic cloves (minced) – 4 cloves. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. Need tips on prepping garlic? Check out Easy Garlic Preparation Techniques.
Chicken broth – 2 cups. Low-sodium broth is recommended. Want to make your own? Here’s a great Homemade Chicken Broth Recipe.
Heavy cream – 1 cup. Can be replaced with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Uncooked long-grain rice – 1 cup. Jasmine or basmati rice works well, but avoid quick-cooking rice as it may turn mushy.
Grated Parmesan cheese – ½ cup. Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture. Learn more in this Parmesan Cheese Guide.
Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon. A mix of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary for extra flavor.
Salt & black pepper – To taste. Adjust according to your preference.
Fresh parsley (for garnish) – Optional but adds a fresh, vibrant touch.

Optional Additions for Customization

Vegetables – Add spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for extra nutrients and a pop of color.
Spices & Heat – If you enjoy a little kick, mix in red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or cayenne.
Cheese Variations – Instead of Parmesan, try Asiago, Gruyère, or sharp cheddar for a different cheesy twist.
Crispy Topping – Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the dish for extra texture.
Protein Variations – Switch up the protein by using shrimp, turkey, or sausage instead of chicken.
Herbs for Garnish – Fresh basil or thyme can enhance both the aroma and overall flavor of the dish.

Instructions

Sear the Chicken – Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic – In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
Add Rice and Liquids – Stir in the uncooked rice, letting it absorb the flavors. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Simmer Until Cooked – Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and let it simmer over low heat for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in Parmesan & Serve – Once the rice is fully cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – It melts better and gives a richer flavor than pre-packaged cheese.
Adjust the Creaminess – Add more broth or cream if you prefer a saucier texture.
Choose the Right Rice – Long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati works best; avoid quick-cooking varieties.
Customize Your Dish – Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or peas for extra nutrition and color.
Storage & Reheating – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream to maintain texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: One-Pot Cooking
Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired