Introduction
If you’re craving a dish that’s creamy, comforting, and absolutely bursting with garlicky goodness, then Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is about to become your new weeknight favorite. This cozy, one-pot meal is the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas long before it even hits your plate. Juicy chicken tenders, buttery garlic, and rich Parmesan all come together in a silky, flavorful rice that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen—but with none of the fuss.
Funny enough, I first stumbled upon a version of this dish during a busy week when I needed something fast, filling, and picky-eater approved. Little did I know it would quickly become one of those recipes everyone asks for again and again. It’s simple enough for beginners, quick enough for weeknights, and delicious enough for guests—truly the trifecta of dinner perfection. And unlike many rice-and-chicken combos, this one simmers right in a garlicky butter sauce that makes every bite unforgettable.
If you’ve tried my Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you already know how much I love adding bold flavors to simple dishes. This recipe has that same comforting, creamy magic but with a buttery rice twist that creates its own kind of comfort-food bliss. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this dish delivers every single time.
So grab your skillet, get ready for some heavenly smells, and let’s make a meal you’ll want to cook on repeat!
What Is Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice?
So what exactly is Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice? Think of it as comfort food meets effortless cooking—a cozy, one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken with rice cooked directly in a buttery, garlicky sauce. The name might sound fancy, but trust me, this recipe is as down-to-earth and approachable as it gets. Ever wonder who decided that garlic, butter, and Parmesan should be best friends? Whoever it was deserves an award… or at least a second helping!
Some say the name comes from how the rice soaks up every bit of that Parmesan-infused sauce, creating a dish so flavorful it practically disappears the moment it hits the table. And as the classic saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—but honestly, this dish wins over everyone.
Curious? Hungry? Maybe a little of both? Good! Stick around and give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice
There are so many reasons this recipe deserves a spot in your weekly rotation, but here are the top three:
1. It’s Comforting, Creamy, and Absolutely Delicious
The biggest star of this dish is its buttery, garlicky rice that absorbs all the flavors from the chicken and Parmesan. Every bite delivers richness, depth, and that cozy “homemade” feeling we all crave.
2. It’s Budget-Friendly
Instead of spending money on takeout or pricey ready-made meals, you can whip up this dish using simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Rice, chicken broth, butter, and garlic—classic staples that create an extraordinary flavor without an extraordinary price tag.
3. It Features Flavorful Finishing Touches
Between the Parmesan cheese melting into the hot rice, the drizzle of reserved pan sauce, and the sprinkle of fresh parsley on top, this dish feels special without requiring any complicated steps. It's a flavor-packed dinner that tastes like it took hours.
If you’re a fan of my One-Pot Chicken and Rice, prepare to fall even more in love—this version takes things to the next level with its creamy garlic-Parmesan twist.
Ready to taste it for yourself? Let’s get cooking!
How to Make Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Quick Overview
This recipe is the definition of easy comfort food. It comes together in one skillet, uses simple everyday ingredients, and delivers a restaurant-style dinner in about 35 minutes. The creamy garlic-Parmesan rice is truly the star here, soaking up buttery flavors and creating a rich, satisfying texture that perfectly complements the golden brown chicken tenders. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned cook, this dish is straightforward, hearty, and always delicious.
Key Ingredients for Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Here’s everything you’ll need:
1 lb. chicken tenders
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons minced garlic
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon salt, divided
½ cup dry white wine (Pinot Grigio works great)
1 ½ cups white rice (uncooked)
3 cups chicken broth
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shredded
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season your chicken tenders with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Add them to the skillet and sauté until browned and fully cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
2. Make the Saucy Garlic Butter Base
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and ½ teaspoon salt.
Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring gently to keep the garlic from burning.
Increase the heat to medium-high and pour in the white wine.
Let it cook for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly and develop flavor.
Remove and reserve 3 tablespoons of this pan sauce for serving later.
3. Cook the Rice
Add the uncooked rice to the skillet with the remaining sauce.
Stir until the rice is completely coated in the buttery mixture.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a low boil.
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
Stir occasionally to keep the rice from sticking.
4. Final Assembly
Once the rice is done, place the chicken tenders back on top of the rice.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese all over the chicken and rice.
Cover the skillet and remove from heat; let stand for 5 minutes.
Drizzle the reserved pan sauce over the chicken before serving.
Garnish with parsley if desired.
What to Serve Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice With
This dish is hearty enough to shine all on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal even more. Here are some delicious options:
Roasted or steamed vegetables
Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus complement the creamy rice beautifully.
A fresh side salad
A crisp Caesar or simple garden salad adds a refreshing contrast.
Garlic bread or dinner rolls
Because who doesn’t want more garlic and carbs?
A light white wine
If you cooked with Pinot Grigio, enjoy a glass with dinner for the perfect pairing.
Top Tips for Perfecting Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Want to take this recipe from amazing to unforgettable? Try these pro tips:
1. Use freshly grated Parmesan
Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and blends seamlessly into the rice.
2. Don’t skip the reserved pan sauce
That extra drizzle adds moisture, richness, and garlic flavor that makes the dish pop.
3. Watch your garlic closely
Garlic burns easily. Keep the heat low/medium during the sauté to avoid bitterness.
4. Opt for long-grain white rice
It cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors beautifully—avoid instant rice.
5. Wine substitution
No wine on hand? Replace with equal parts chicken broth plus a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
6. Avoid lifting the lid too often
While stirring is necessary, letting the rice steam properly is key to achieving that perfect texture.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftovers? You’re in luck—this dish reheats wonderfully.
Storing
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
For freezing, store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. (Keep in mind the rice may soften slightly after thawing.)
Reheating
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, adding a splash of broth or water to revive the creaminess.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a small amount of broth or butter.
Avoid overheating—this can dry out the chicken.
Here’s everything you’ll need:
1 lb. chicken tenders
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons minced garlic
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon salt, divided
½ cup dry white wine (Pinot Grigio works great)
1 ½ cups white rice (uncooked)
3 cups chicken broth
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shredded
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season your chicken tenders with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Add them to the skillet and sauté until browned and fully cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
2. Make the Saucy Garlic Butter Base
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and ½ teaspoon salt.
Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring gently to keep the garlic from burning.
Increase the heat to medium-high and pour in the white wine.
Let it cook for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly and develop flavor.
Remove and reserve 3 tablespoons of this pan sauce for serving later.
3. Cook the Rice
Add the uncooked rice to the skillet with the remaining sauce.
Stir until the rice is completely coated in the buttery mixture.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a low boil.
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
Stir occasionally to keep the rice from sticking.
4. Final Assembly
Once the rice is done, place the chicken tenders back on top of the rice.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese all over the chicken and rice.
Cover the skillet and remove from heat; let stand for 5 minutes.
Drizzle the reserved pan sauce over the chicken before serving.
Garnish with parsley if desired.
What to Serve Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice With
This dish is hearty enough to shine all on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal even more. Here are some delicious options:
Roasted or steamed vegetables
Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus complement the creamy rice beautifully.
A fresh side salad
A crisp Caesar or simple garden salad adds a refreshing contrast.
Garlic bread or dinner rolls
Because who doesn’t want more garlic and carbs?
A light white wine
If you cooked with Pinot Grigio, enjoy a glass with dinner for the perfect pairing.
Top Tips for Perfecting Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Want to take this recipe from amazing to unforgettable? Try these pro tips:
1. Use freshly grated Parmesan
Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and blends seamlessly into the rice.
2. Don’t skip the reserved pan sauce
That extra drizzle adds moisture, richness, and garlic flavor that makes the dish pop.
3. Watch your garlic closely
Garlic burns easily. Keep the heat low/medium during the sauté to avoid bitterness.
4. Opt for long-grain white rice
It cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors beautifully—avoid instant rice.
5. Wine substitution
No wine on hand? Replace with equal parts chicken broth plus a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
6. Avoid lifting the lid too often
While stirring is necessary, letting the rice steam properly is key to achieving that perfect texture.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftovers? You’re in luck—this dish reheats wonderfully.
Storing
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
For freezing, store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. (Keep in mind the rice may soften slightly after thawing.)
Reheating
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, adding a splash of broth or water to revive the creaminess.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a small amount of broth or butter.
Avoid overheating—this can dry out the chicken.
