Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice – Easy One-Pan Dinner

There’s nothing quite like a creamy, garlicky, buttery chicken dish to turn an ordinary dinner into something special. This Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice is the perfect meal when you want something hearty, comforting, and easy to make. It’s a one-pan recipe that brings together tender, juicy chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce and fluffy Parmesan-infused rice, making every bite a delicious explosion of flavors.

This dish has become a go-to in my kitchen for busy weeknights. It’s easy to prepare, requires simple ingredients that are probably already in your pantry, and best of all, it delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The chicken is seared to golden perfection, locking in the juices, while the garlic butter sauce adds a rich and slightly nutty aroma that pairs beautifully with the creamy Parmesan rice.

Whether you’re making dinner for your family or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. And since it all comes together in one skillet, you’ll have fewer dishes to wash—a huge bonus after a long day! Plus, there’s something truly satisfying about the way the buttery garlic sauce seeps into the rice, infusing it with deep, savory flavors.

If you’re a fan of easy, delicious, and comforting meals, you’re in the right place. This dish checks all the boxes: it’s quick, simple, packed with flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Get ready to fall in love with Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. It’s a One-Pan Wonder

No one enjoys doing a mountain of dishes after dinner. Since everything cooks in one pan, cleanup is minimal. That means more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans.

2. Ready in Just 35 Minutes

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick but still full of flavor. You can have dinner on the table in about half an hour without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

3. Packed with Comforting Flavors

The garlic butter sauce coats every bite, creating a rich, savory, and slightly nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy Parmesan rice. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make.

4. Completely Customizable

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can:

• Swap the protein – Use shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different take.
• Switch up the grains – Substitute quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a different texture and nutritional boost.
• Add veggies – Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.

5. Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved

If you have picky eaters at home, this dish is a great option. The mild garlic butter sauce and cheesy rice appeal to kids and adults alike, making it a perfect family dinner.

Health Benefits of This Recipe

1. High in Protein

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build and repair muscles. A single serving of this dish provides a good amount of protein, keeping you full and satisfied.

2. Rich in Calcium

Parmesan cheese is loaded with calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. It also adds a great depth of flavor to the dish.

3. Contains Healthy Fats

The olive oil and butter used in this recipe provide healthy fats that are important for brain function and overall heart health.

4. Garlic’s Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Garlic isn’t just a flavor booster—it’s also packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help support the immune system.

5. Balanced Meal in One Pan

With protein from the chicken, carbs from the rice, and healthy fats from the butter and cheese, this dish is a nutrient-packed, well-balanced meal that keeps you full and energized.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time: 35 minutes

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 18g
• Sodium: 670mg

Ingredients List

The Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into fillets or chunks)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

The Garlic Butter Sauce & Rice:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (e.g., jasmine or basmati)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
• Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add 3 tablespoons of butter.
• Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
• Stir in ½ cup of chicken broth, letting it simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
• For an extra kick, sprinkle in red pepper flakes at this stage.

3: Cook the Parmesan Rice

• Stir in the uncooked rice, coating it well with the garlic butter sauce.
• Add the remaining 1 cup of chicken broth, then bring to a boil.
• Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

 4: Combine Everything & Serve

• Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well for a creamy texture.
• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the rice.
• Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
• Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

How to Serve

This dish is rich and flavorful on its own, but you can elevate it by serving with:

• A crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
• Warm garlic bread to soak up the sauce.

Pairing Suggestions

This meal pairs beautifully with:

• A refreshing lemonade or iced tea.
• A light and citrusy sparkling water.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Heat in the microwave, oven, or stovetop with extra broth to prevent drying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the chicken – Use a meat thermometer.
• Burning the garlic – Cook it on low heat.
• Not letting the rice fully cook – Keep the lid on and simmer gently.

Creative Ways to Elevate This Dish

If you want to take your Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice to the next level, there are plenty of ways to enhance the flavors and presentation. Try stuffing the chicken with a mixture of ricotta and spinach for an extra creamy bite. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the dish just before serving to brighten up the richness of the butter sauce. If you love a little crunch, top the chicken with crispy fried shallots or toasted breadcrumbs for extra texture. You can also drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the finished dish to add a sweet and tangy contrast. For a more decadent version, melt a little mozzarella or provolone cheese over the chicken before serving. Lastly, if you enjoy a bit of spice, a dash of hot honey or chili oil will add a unique twist without overpowering the garlicky, buttery goodness.

How to Make This Recipe More Budget-Friendly

Cooking delicious meals doesn’t have to be expensive, and this recipe can easily be adapted for a tighter budget. Instead of chicken breasts, opt for chicken thighs, which are more affordable and even juicier. Buy block Parmesan instead of pre-grated cheese, as it’s often cheaper and has a stronger flavor, meaning you can use less while still getting that cheesy richness. Bulk-buying garlic, rice, and butter can also save money in the long run, especially if these are staples in your kitchen. If fresh herbs are too pricey, dried parsley works just as well in a pinch. Lastly, consider making your own chicken broth by simmering leftover chicken bones with water, onions, and herbs, cutting out the need for store-bought broth.

How to Adjust the Recipe for Different Diets

This recipe is versatile enough to accommodate different dietary needs with a few simple swaps. If you’re looking for a low-carb version, replace the rice with cauliflower rice or serve the garlic butter chicken over zucchini noodles. For a dairy-free adaptation, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese, and replace the butter with olive oil or dairy-free butter alternatives. Those following a gluten-free diet can enjoy this dish as written, as long as they ensure the broth and Parmesan are certified gluten-free. If you’re aiming for a higher protein meal, consider adding a poached or fried egg on top of the rice. And for vegetarians, swapping out the chicken for roasted mushrooms, chickpeas, or tofu will still provide plenty of flavor and texture.

Mistakes That Can Ruin This Dish and How to Fix Them

Even though this recipe is simple, a few small mistakes can affect the final result. Overcooking the chicken can leave it dry and tough, so use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C). If the garlic burns, the sauce can turn bitter—keep the heat low and stir frequently when cooking the garlic. If the rice turns out mushy, you may have added too much broth or stirred it too much while cooking. To fix this, let it sit uncovered for a few minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate. If the flavor feels too heavy, balance the richness by adding a bit of lemon juice or fresh herbs. Lastly, if the dish feels bland, a pinch of salt and black pepper can help bring out all the flavors.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice is a must-try. It’s easy, delicious, and comforting, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. If you try it, let me know how it turns out!

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