Imagine a dish that combines the crispy, golden-brown perfection of chicken with the rich, savory notes of garlic and Parmesan, all nestled on a bed of fluffy rice. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice recipe is not just a meal – it's a culinary experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dinner that will have your family begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy home cook looking for a quick weeknight meal or a food enthusiast searching for a crowd-pleasing recipe, this dish promises to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and seasoning both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering and hot.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, ensuring they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- During the last minute of cooking, add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté briefly to release its aromatic flavors without burning.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- In the same skillet, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the surface, allowing it to slightly melt and create a crispy texture.
- Warm the cooked rice and arrange it on serving plates as a base for the chicken.
- Place the cooked chicken breasts on top of the rice and spoon the garlic and melted Parmesan from the skillet over the chicken.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and fresh flavor.
- Serve immediately while the chicken is hot and the Parmesan is still melted and fragrant.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked chicken every time.
- Maximize Flavor: Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust. The drier the surface, the better the sear.
- Garlic Timing: Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking to prevent burning and preserve its aromatic flavors. Burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the dish.
- Cheese Trick: For extra crispy Parmesan, let it slightly brown in the skillet, creating delicious crispy cheese bits that add texture and intense flavor.
- Resting Matters: Always let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and tender.
- Rice Perfection: Use day-old rice or freshly cooked rice that's been allowed to sit for a few minutes to prevent clumping and achieve the best texture.
- Fresh Herbs: Don't skip the parsley garnish – it adds a fresh, bright note that cuts through the richness of the chicken and cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
