If you’re searching for a dish that brings comfort, big flavor, and minimal cleanup to the dinner table, look no further than this One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice. It’s the dinner you crave after a long, busy day: juicy chicken, creamy, garlicky rice, and a blanket of nutty Parmesan all simmered to perfection in just one skillet. There’s no fussing with multiple pots or complicated steps, just the pure joy of savoring a dish that feels cozy and satisfying for the whole family. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your go-to recipe rotation!

Ingredients You’ll Need

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

Ingredients You’ll Need

This is one of those magical recipes where every ingredient plays a starring role. Simple kitchen staples like garlic, chicken, and rice transform into something utterly craveable, while Parmesan, fresh parsley, and a splash of wine lend complexity and color. Let’s break down what makes each item essential for One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice.

Chicken tenders: Choose tender, juicy tenders for fast cooking and a consistently succulent bite in every forkful.
Poultry or Cajun seasoning: Adds a boost of flavor and a gentle hit of spice; Cajun seasoning brings more depth if you like a little kick.
Minced garlic: The heart of the recipe; use fresh cloves for the best aroma and full-bodied flavor.
Olive oil: For searing and keeping the chicken extra moist while developing a golden crust.
Butter: Both flavor and richness come from plenty of butter, which also helps create a luscious pan sauce.
Red pepper flakes: Optional, but these add a gentle pop of warmth that pairs beautifully with the creamy rice.
Salt: Enhances every other flavor, marrying the spices, cheese, and garlic together.
Dry white wine: Deglazes the skillet, lifting all those tasty brown bits and infusing the rice with subtle acidity and depth—Pinot Grigio works wonderfully.
White rice (basmati, long grain, or jasmine): Each variety stays fluffy and separate, soaking up all the garlicky, buttery juices—pick your favorite.
Low sodium chicken stock: Adds savory backbone and ensures the rice cooks up flavorful and moist.
Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated or high-quality shredded Parmesan for the creamiest, most melt-in-your-mouth finish.
Fresh parsley: Brings brightness, color, and a touch of herbal freshness right at the end.

How to Make One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Begin by generously seasoning your chicken tenders on both sides—don’t be shy! A hot skillet and a drizzle of olive oil are all you need to create that beautiful golden crust. Sear the chicken for about three minutes per side, flipping just once for even color. After both sides are shimmering with a lovely hue, turn the heat down to low so the tenders stay juicy.

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Make Garlic Butter

Toss in two tablespoons of butter and a tablespoon of minced garlic. Let the butter melt and garlic sizzle (your kitchen will smell incredible), scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Swirl the chicken tenders through the buttery garlic goodness to coat them well, then tent them under foil on a plate to keep warm for now.

Step 3: Build Flavor Base with Wine and Garlic

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low and add four more tablespoons of butter and another tablespoon of garlic. Once fragrant, pour in the white wine, letting it bubble and simmer for three to five minutes. This reduces the liquid and concentrates all those deep, savory flavors into the base for your rice.

Step 4: Toast the Rice

Before you cook your rice, unlock extra flavor by measuring out a third of a cup of those rich pan juices and setting it aside for later. Then, increase the skillet heat to medium and add the uncooked rice. Stir regularly for about five minutes as the grains gently toast and soak up the winey, garlicky butter.

Step 5: Simmer the Rice

Pour in the chicken stock, sprinkle with red pepper flakes and salt, and make sure the rice is fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately turn the heat down low and cover. Let everything simmer for about twenty minutes. The One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice truly comes together here, as the rice absorbs all that flavor.

Step 6: Add Parmesan and Chicken

Once the rice is tender, uncover the pan. Stir in the Parmesan cheese for that creamy, melty finish. You can dice the chicken or leave the tenders whole, then nestle them right over the rice, letting all the flavors mingle together as the dish comes off the heat.

Step 7: Make and Drizzle the Finishing Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine a few tablespoons of softened butter with the remaining garlic, microwaving it just until partially melted. Stir in the reserved pan juices and parsley, then drizzle this aromatic garlic butter sauce right over everything. For a final flourish, don’t hesitate to shower on some extra Parmesan—because when you’re making One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice, there’s no such thing as too much cheese.

How to Serve One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Garnishes

Brighten things up with a scattering of freshly minced parsley and an extra grating of Parmesan cheese. A little squeeze of lemon over the top can also work wonders if you’re craving a fresh, zesty finish. These touches not only make the dish visually stunning, but also amplify the fresh flavors that balance the richness of every bite.

Side Dishes

While One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice is satisfying enough to stand alone, it pairs beautifully with crisp-tender green beans, a simple Caesar salad, or oven-roasted broccoli. These sides add both color and crunch, rounding out your meal without upstaging the main event.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it right from the skillet for a rustic, family-style vibe, or transfer to a large platter and top with additional herbs for a dinner party feel. For a cozy twist, pile a generous helping into individual bowls and garnish with a Parmesan crisp or two. However you present it, this dish is a surefire showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days, stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making for an even cozier meal the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to two months. When freezing, let the dish cool completely and consider portioning into single servings for easy reheating. Some texture may change slightly, but the garlicky Parmesan flavors will remain delightful.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the rice and keep it tender. The microwave works too, especially for weekday lunches, but add a wet paper towel over the dish to avoid drying out the rice and chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Simply slice chicken breasts into strips similar in size to tenders for even cooking. Make sure not to overcook, as breasts can dry out faster than tenders.

What’s the best kind of rice for One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice?

Long grain varieties like basmati or jasmine work best, staying light and fluffy while absorbing the saucy flavors. Short-grain varieties may become sticky, so stick with long grain for ideal texture.

Is the wine absolutely necessary?

The wine adds great depth of flavor, but you can substitute with extra chicken stock and a splash of lemon juice if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. You’ll still get a delicious result!

How can I make this dish less spicy?

Simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. The rest of the seasoning will still provide lots of flavor, making the dish perfect even for kids or anyone who prefers milder tastes.

Can I make One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance. Store it in the fridge, and just reheat gently with a splash of extra stock when ready to serve. Add fresh parsley and more Parmesan after reheating for the just-made effect.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice enough—it’s cozy, craveable, and surprisingly easy. If you’re looking to add a new comfort classic to your weeknight menu, grab your skillet and give this one a try. You’re going to love every garlicky, cheesy bite!