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Savory One-Pan Chicken and Rice

Featured in Delicious Main Course Recipes for Every Occasion.

A quick dinner idea—ready in 30 minutes! This one-pan dish combines chicken, buttery garlic rice, and parmesan cheese for an effortless weeknight option.
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Mena
Updated on Wed, 05 Mar 2025 16:18:23 GMT
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This one-pan chicken and rice dish delivers exceptional flavor with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, garlic-infused rice, and rich parmesan creates a restaurant-worthy meal using simple pantry ingredients. The cooking method ensures each component develops deep flavor while keeping preparation straightforward.

Essential Ingredients

  • Chicken tenders: Quick-cooking and naturally moist. Slice chicken breasts into strips as an alternative.
  • Long-grain rice: Basmati or jasmine rice work well. Rinse before cooking for best texture.
  • Unsalted butter: Creates the rich sauce base and adds essential flavor.
  • Fresh garlic: Provides aromatic foundation. Mince just before using.
  • Dry white wine: Choose a quality drinking wine like Pinot Grigio.
  • Fresh parmesan: Grate just before using for optimal melting.
  • Chicken stock: Low-sodium allows better seasoning control.
  • Fresh parsley: Adds brightness and visual appeal.
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One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe | delishdocket.com

Essential Techniques

Chicken Preparation

Cook chicken tenders over medium heat to develop golden color while maintaining moisture. Coating with garlic butter before removing from pan enhances flavor development.

Flavor Development

Toasting rice in the seasoned pan incorporates the flavors from cooking the chicken. Wine reduction concentrates flavors and creates the foundation for the sauce.

Sauce Technique

Reserve a portion of the pan sauce to combine with additional garlic and butter. This finishing sauce adds richness and ties all components together.

Timing Elements

Resting the chicken while rice cooks ensures proper moisture distribution. Adding chicken back at the end prevents overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside fresh green vegetables like roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli. A light salad with citrus dressing complements the rich flavors. For formal occasions, begin with a light soup and end with a simple dessert.

Variations

Incorporate frozen peas for color and texture. Add cherry tomatoes and olives for Mediterranean influence. Include red pepper flakes for heat. Finish with cream for additional richness.

Storage Guidelines

Store refrigerated for up to three days. When reheating, add a small amount of chicken stock to maintain moisture. Prepare chicken in advance for efficient meal planning.

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Professional Tips

  • Add fresh lemon zest as garnish
  • Allow chicken to sear undisturbed initially
  • Be generous with garlic quantity

This efficient one-pan recipe delivers sophisticated flavor while maintaining simplicity. The aromatic combination of garlic, wine, and butter creates an inviting kitchen atmosphere and a satisfying meal suitable for various occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I swap chicken tenders for other cuts?
Definitely! Just slice chicken breasts into smaller pieces and adjust the cook time to ensure they’re fully done.
→ What's a good swap for white wine?
A mix of chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice or even a dab of white vinegar works great!
→ What can I serve on the side?
This dish is filling on its own, but a fresh salad or some steamed veggies make great sides.
→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! It keeps well in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it gently with a little broth to keep it moist.
→ How do I keep the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan?
Make sure to stir the rice often while it cooks, and use either a nonstick pan or one that’s well-seasoned.

Garlic Butter Chicken Rice

Tender chicken strips cooked to perfection with fluffy rice in a creamy garlic butter and parmesan sauce. A fast, tasty meal with minimal cleanup.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Mena

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Italian-American

Yield: 4 Servings (4 servings)

Dietary: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Proteins & Grains

01 1 pound chicken strips
02 1½ cups raw white rice (long-grain, basmati, or jasmine)

→ Aromatics & Seasonings

03 3 tablespoons minced garlic, split up (around 10 cloves total)
04 Seasoning for poultry (go for cajun if possible)
05 Pinch of crushed red chili flakes
06 ½ teaspoon plain salt
07 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley

→ Fats & Liquids

08 ¼ cup (1 stick) butter, split into portions
09 2 tablespoons olive oil
10 ¾ cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio)
11 2¾ cups chicken broth (low salt preferred)
12 ½ cup freshly grated or shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 01

Sprinkle chicken tenders on both sides with seasoning. Warm up a skillet on medium-high heat and pour in olive oil. Cook the chicken for about 3 minutes on each side, flipping once. Lower the heat to low.

Step 02

When the chicken is just about done, toss in 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of garlic. Let it cook for another minute, stirring up the browned bits. Coat the chicken with the mixture, then take it out and cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 03

Using the same pan, lower the heat to medium-low and let 4 tablespoons of butter melt along with 1 tablespoon of garlic until it smells amazing. Pour in wine and cook it down for about 3 to 5 minutes. Scoop out ⅓ cup of the juices and set it aside for later.

Step 04

Turn up the heat to medium and add in the uncooked rice. Stir it around for about 5 minutes until it's lightly toasted.

Step 05

Pour in the chicken stock, salt, and chili flakes. Stir everything to make sure the rice is covered, let it come to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and cover. Cook for about 20 minutes until the rice softens.

Step 06

Mix the cooked rice with Parmesan cheese. Cut the chicken into smaller pieces (or keep whole) and arrange it over the rice. Combine the leftover garlic with 3 tablespoons softened butter and the reserved pan juices. Add parsley, drizzle this mixture over the dish, and sprinkle with extra Parmesan if you like.

Notes

  1. One-pan meal from start to finish
  2. Great option for busy evenings
  3. On the table in just half an hour

Tools You'll Need

  • Large pan with a fitting lid
  • Foil for covering
  • Measuring tools for cups and spoons
  • Small mixing bowl

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Includes dairy (like butter and Parmesan)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 675
  • Total Fat: 32 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 60 g
  • Protein: 35 g