One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

This One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort to your dinner table. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this dish combines tender chicken and fluffy rice in a flavorful garlic-butter sauce, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. With its rich flavors and cozy aroma, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means fewer dishes to wash afterward.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of garlic, butter, and parmesan creates a savory sauce that enhances the chicken and rice.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt the recipe with different spices or vegetables as per your preference.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is loved by kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking, gather your essential kitchen tools. These will help you create this delicious dish effortlessly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Spatula
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Skillet: A good-quality skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the chicken.
• Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements help maintain the balance of flavors in your dish.
• Spatula: A sturdy spatula allows you to easily flip the chicken and stir the rice without damaging them.

Ingredients

This one-pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice is full of delicious flavors. Perfectly cooked chicken and tender rice braised in white grape juice, butter, and garlic, topped with lots of parmesan for a warm and cozy one-pot meal.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb. chicken tenders
– poultry seasoning (I prefer 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 teaspoons salt
– 3/4 cup dry white grape juice
– 1 1/2 cups white rice, uncooked (basmati, long grain, or jasmine all work)
– 2 3/4 cups low sodium chicken stock
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, choose a quality brand (freshly grated or shredded)
– 1 tablespoon freshly minced parsley

How to Make One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken well on both sides with poultry seasoning. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Cook the chicken for about 3 minutes on each side, flipping just once. Then reduce the heat to low.

Step 2: Add Garlic Butter

Once the chicken is nearly cooked through, add in 2 tablespoons of butter and one tablespoon of minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute while scraping up any brown bits from the pan. Toss the chicken tenders in the garlic butter until well coated. Remove from heat and set aside under tented foil.

Step 3: Prepare Sauce Base

In the same skillet, increase heat to medium-low. Add the remaining butter and one tablespoon of minced garlic; sauté until fragrant. Pour in the grape juice and simmer to reduce for about 3–5 minutes.

Step 4: Toast the Rice

Using a measuring cup, scoop out about 1/3 cup of the pan juices and set aside for later use. Heat the pan back to medium heat and add uncooked rice. Pan-fry for about 5 minutes while stirring frequently.

Step 5: Simmer Together

Add chicken stock along with salt and red pepper flakes to the rice. Ensure that the rice is fully submerged under the liquid. Bring this mixture to a low boil then reduce heat to low. Cover your pan and let it simmer for approximately 20 minutes or until rice is tender.

Step 6: Combine Chicken & Rice

After cooking, stir in parmesan cheese into the rice mixture until well combined. Dice up the cooked chicken or leave it whole if preferred, arranging it evenly over the rice.

Step 7: Make Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, combine softened butter with remaining minced garlic (about one tablespoon). Microwave for about 15 seconds until partially melted. Stir in reserved pan juices from earlier along with chopped parsley to mix well.

Step 8: Serve Your Dish

Drizzle this aromatic sauce over both rice and chicken before serving directly from the pan. Add extra parmesan on top if desired! Enjoy your delightful meal!

How to Serve One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

This delicious one-pan dish is perfect for serving straight from the skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Create a Flavorful Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: Pair with crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing for a classic touch.

Add Some Crunch

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up all those amazing juices.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your meal.

Garnish for Extra Flavor

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving for an aromatic finish.
• Lemon Wedges: Providing lemon wedges gives diners the option to add a zesty kick to their plates.

How to Perfect One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

To ensure your one-pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Use plenty of seasoning on the chicken. This enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Quality Cheese: Choose high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor impact. Freshly grated cheese melts better and infuses more taste.
• Timing is Key: Don’t rush the simmering process; allowing the rice enough time to absorb the flavors makes all the difference.
• Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to modify the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
• Test Rice Doneness: Check rice for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off to avoid overcooking.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Complement this hearty one-pan meal with these delightful side dishes that balance well with its rich flavors.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch and vibrant color.
2. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic offer a tasty veggie side that pairs nicely.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can add comfort and richness alongside this dish.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the creamy rice.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness that complements savory flavors wonderfully.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make an elegant addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season both sides generously for a tasty result.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many chicken tenders in the skillet at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
• Neglecting to scrape the pan: Not scraping up the brown bits can mean missing out on great flavor. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pan when adding garlic or liquid.
• Not measuring rice and liquid accurately: Incorrect ratios can lead to undercooked rice or a soupy dish. Use precise measurements for best results.
• Rushing the simmering process: Reducing heat too quickly can prevent proper cooking. Allow enough time for rice and chicken to cook through without being rushed.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe dish, covering with a lid, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock, stirring until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice?

This dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I use different types of rice?

Yes! Basmati, long grain, or jasmine rice all work well in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

What if I don’t have white grape juice?

You can substitute white grape juice with apple juice or vegetable broth for a similar taste profile.

How do I customize One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice?

You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach to enhance nutrition and flavor without altering cooking times significantly.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in both the fridge and freezer, making it ideal for meal prep enthusiasts.

Conclusion

One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice is not just a quick meal; it’s also versatile and delicious. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or spices. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting dinner that requires minimal cleanup!

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