Name: One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb. chicken tenders; poultry seasoning (preferably cajun seasoning); 3 tablespoons minced garlic, divided (about 10 cloves); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 stick butter, divided (1/2 cup); 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio); 1 1/2 cups white rice, uncooked (basmati, long grain, or jasmine); 2 3/4 cups low sodium chicken stock; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated or shredded; 1 tablespoon freshly minced parsley

Jump to Recipe

If there’s one cozy crowd-pleaser that never fails to wow at my dinner table, it’s One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice. Creamy, garlicky, and richly savory, this dinner comes together in a single pan but tastes so layered and gourmet, you’d swear it simmered for hours. Each forkful offers tender chicken, fragrant garlic and herbs, buttery parmesan rice, and the irresistible aroma of fresh parsley. Whether you’re wrangling weeknight chaos or hosting friends for supper, this comforting dish will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation!

One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the beauty of One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice: you only need a dozen everyday ingredients that each bring their own burst of flavor, texture, or color. When the quality of your ingredients shines, so does your final dish!

Chicken tenders: Quick-cooking and super tender, these soak up all the buttery garlic goodness.
Poultry seasoning (or Cajun seasoning): Adds warm, herby flavor or a bit of Cajun kick if you like a little heat.
Minced garlic (about 10 cloves): This flavorful powerhouse is truly the backbone of this recipe — fresh is best!
Olive oil: Gives the chicken and garlic a beautiful golden sear without burning.
Butter (1 stick, divided): Creates a creamy base and luscious finish that melds every flavor together.
Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch lightly awakens the palate without overpowering the delicate garlic.
Salt: Enhances each note — don’t skimp, but taste as you go!
Dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio): Lends brightness and a gentle zing; most of the alcohol cooks off.
White rice (basmati, long grain, or jasmine): Absorbs all those pan juices, turning fluffy and fragrant.
Low sodium chicken stock: Builds a richer rice and gives you more control over the dish’s seasoning.
Parmesan cheese (freshly grated or shredded): Melts directly into the rice for that signature, craveable creaminess.
Freshly minced parsley: Adds pops of color and a clean, herbaceous finish.

How to Make One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by generously seasoning both sides of your chicken tenders with your chosen spice blend. Heat a sturdy skillet on medium-high and swirl in the olive oil. Add the chicken in a single layer, letting them sizzle without fuss for about 3 minutes per side — resist flipping more than once to lock in that golden crust. When they’re nearly cooked through, drop in 2 tablespoons of butter and a spoonful of minced garlic. Let the aroma fill your kitchen as you baste the chicken in hot, garlicky butter. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and tent it with foil to keep it juicy.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Lower the heat to medium-low and, right in that same pan, add 4 more tablespoons of butter with another hit of garlic. Stir gently until the garlic is perfectly fragrant without browning. Pour in the white wine, allowing it to bubble away and reduce for 3 to 5 minutes — this is where the magic (and depth of flavor) happens. Quickly reserve 1/3 cup of those savory pan juices for the final drizzle.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Turn the heat back up to medium and stir in your uncooked rice. Toast it right in those buttery, garlicky juices for about 5 minutes, stirring often so nothing sticks and the grains are well-coated. This little step infuses deep flavor into every bite — trust me, don’t skip it!

Step 4: Simmer and Steam

Add the chicken stock, red pepper flakes, and salt. Stir to ensure the rice is completely submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to low, cover, and let it quietly simmer for 20 minutes. When you lift the lid, you’ll be greeted by fluffy, tender rice that’s absorbed every last drop of seasoned goodness.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese (and Chicken!)

Next, stir a generous shower of parmesan cheese into the rice, turning it rich and creamy in seconds. Either cube the chicken for even bites or arrange tenders whole right on top. This way, every serving gets just the right balance of meat and rice.

Step 6: Garlic Butter Drizzle

To finish, melt the last bit of butter with remaining minced garlic in the microwave, then blend it with those reserved pan juices and a flurry of fresh parsley. Drizzle this glorious, herb-packed butter over your chicken and rice for that final irresistible touch — extra parmesan on top wouldn’t hurt, either!

How to Serve One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Garnishes

The right garnish takes One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice from comforting to chef-worthy. A scatter of finely chopped parsley delivers brightness, while an extra flourish of shaved parmesan creates restaurant-style drama right at the table. Freshly cracked black pepper or a pinch more red pepper adds a fresh, assertive finish.

Side Dishes

Thanks to its creamy rice and hearty chicken, this recipe is a complete meal. Still, it pairs beautifully with crisp, lemony green salads or simply roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to balance all the richness. For something indulgent, warm garlic bread on the side is always a hit for mopping up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Craving a little wow factor? Serve One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice family-style, straight from the skillet, for an inviting, rustic centerpiece. For more formal gatherings, plate individual servings with a sprinkle of microgreens and a wispy parmesan tuile atop each. Or turn leftovers into irresistible garlic parmesan chicken rice bowls for meal prep success all week!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got extras? Cool the chicken and rice completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, leftovers are good for up to 3 days, making this a fantastic make-ahead lunch or quick dinner fix.

Freezing

For longer-term storage, One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice freezes surprisingly well. Spoon cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or zip bags, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months; just note that the texture of the rice may soften slightly, but all that flavor sticks around!

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave individual portions with a splash of chicken broth to revive the creamy texture, or warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a bit more butter. Add a sprinkle of fresh parmesan and parsley just before serving to refresh the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Just cut the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Chicken thighs add an extra layer of juiciness, though both work beautifully in this dish.

What can I use instead of white wine?

If you prefer to cook without wine, just swap in extra chicken stock and a squeeze of lemon for brightness. The key is to retain that little touch of acidity and depth in the rice!

Does this recipe work with brown rice?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook and needs a bit more liquid. You may need to add 1/2 cup more chicken stock and extend the simmering time by 10 to 15 minutes. Just keep an eye on the texture.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

You sure can! Use a large, wide pan to avoid overcrowding, and keep in mind that the simmering step may take a few minutes longer as volume increases. All other steps remain the same.

How do I keep the rice from sticking to the pan?

Make sure your rice is well stirred in the pan juices before adding the stock, use a skillet with a good heavy bottom, and stir every so often if you notice spots getting too hot. A nonstick pan also works wonders here.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to discover just how satisfying and easy One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice truly is. With just a handful of pantry favorites and a single skillet, you’ll have a crave-worthy meal that’s as delightful for Wednesday night as it is for a special gathering. Give it a whirl tonight — your kitchen will smell amazing, and your tastebuds will thank you!

One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 5 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice recipe is a delicious and comforting meal that is easy to make all in one skillet. Tender chicken cooked in garlic butter paired with flavorful rice and topped with a savory Parmesan sauce.

Instructions

Season the Chicken: Season the chicken tenders on both sides. Cook in a skillet with olive oil until almost cooked through. Set aside.
Prepare the Garlic Butter: In the same skillet, sauté garlic in butter. Toss chicken in the garlic butter and set aside.
Cook the Rice: Add more butter and garlic to the skillet. Pour in wine, then add rice and chicken stock. Simmer until rice is tender.
Combine Chicken and Rice: Stir in Parmesan cheese, then add diced chicken to the rice.
Make the Parmesan Sauce: Mix reserved pan juices with garlic butter, parsley, and drizzle over the rice and chicken.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-Frying, Simmering
Cuisine: Italian