Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice: A Flavorful and Comforting Dish

Name: Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
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)

When you crave a meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor, Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is the perfect solution. This recipe combines tender chicken tenders seared to perfection with buttery, garlicky rice that’s made even more delicious with a splash of white wine and Parmesan cheese. It’s a dish that’s hearty enough for a family dinner yet simple enough to make on a busy weeknight. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this mouth-watering meal.

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)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Chicken Tenders

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken tenders with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring that both sides are evenly coated. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken tenders and cook for about 4-6 minutes on each side, until they are nicely browned and fully cooked through. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Sauté the mixture for 2-3 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and slightly golden but not browned. Next, increase the heat to medium-high and pour in the dry white wine. Cook the wine for approximately 5 minutes, stirring frequently to deglaze the pan and let the alcohol evaporate. Reserve 3 tablespoons of this garlic butter sauce for later use.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Now, add the uncooked white rice to the skillet with the remaining butter sauce. Stir the rice well, ensuring each grain is coated with the sauce. Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth and season the mixture with the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt. Bring everything to a low boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and simmer the rice for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Chicken

Once the rice is fully cooked, sprinkle ½ cup of grated or shredded Parmesan cheese over the top. Gently stir to combine the cheese into the rice, creating a rich and creamy texture. Return the seared chicken tenders to the skillet, nestling them into the rice. Cover the skillet again and remove it from the heat. Let the dish sit for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, drizzle the reserved garlic butter sauce over the chicken tenders for an extra burst of flavor. If desired, garnish the dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice hot, and enjoy this simple yet indulgent meal.

Notes

For a more flavorful rice, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or even beef broth for a deeper flavor.
If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
The white wine adds a subtle depth to the dish, but if you prefer not to cook with wine, you can substitute it with an additional ½ cup of chicken broth.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a little extra chicken broth to keep the rice from drying out.

Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American
Diet: This recipe is adaptable for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free chicken broth and Parmesan.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 620 kcal
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 56g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 1050mg
Potassium: 450mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and cook the rice ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat them together in a skillet, adding extra chicken broth to keep the rice moist.

2. What can I use as a substitute for Parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. These cheeses will give a similar flavor but may be slightly saltier, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.

3. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, so add about 10-15 minutes of simmering time and an extra ½ cup of chicken broth.

4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free Parmesan cheese. Make sure to choose a dairy-free chicken broth as well.

5. What type of chicken can I use?

While chicken tenders are recommended for this recipe, you can also use chicken breast or chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the meat.

This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe is a satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, creamy Parmesan rice, and the richness of a garlic butter sauce. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress!