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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Tender chicken pieces and fluffy rice in rich garlic parmesan cream sauce, perfect for easy weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken and Rice
  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1.5 cups long-grain white rice uncooked
  • 3 cups chicken broth low-sodium
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
  2. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and the pan is hot.
  3. Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pan in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from pan and set aside on a plate.
  4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and allow it to melt over medium heat, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  5. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
  6. Pour in the uncooked rice and stir to coat each grain with the garlic butter mixture, toasting the rice for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Add the chicken broth to the skillet, stirring well to combine, and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
  8. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  9. Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  10. Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them into the rice, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through and allow the flavors to meld.
  11. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed, then remove from heat.
  12. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

Use freshly grated parmesan for best results. Can substitute chicken thighs for extra moisture. Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a complete one-pot meal. Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 4 days.