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Creamy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Rice: Easy 30-Minute Dinner

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This creamy one-pot garlic parmesan chicken & rice is the perfect quick and easy weeknight dinner. Made with simple ingredients, it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that comes together in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (like Jasmine or Basmati), rinsed
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Season the chicken on both sides with the spice mixture.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken thighs in a single layer (you may need to do this in two batches). Sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and nicely crusted. Transfer the seared chicken to a clean plate and set aside.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the pot and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  4. Add the rinsed rice to the pot. Stir to coat the rice in the garlic butter. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice becomes slightly translucent and you hear a faint nutty aroma.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and milk. Stir everything together, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release any flavorful browned bits. Add the red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  6. Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the pot, along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate. Bring the pot back to a gentle simmer, then cover with a tight-fitting lid. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook undisturbed for 18-20 minutes. Do not lift the lid and peek!
  7. After 20 minutes, remove the pot from the heat. Carefully lift the lid. Sprinkle the freshly grated parmesan cheese over the top. Gently stir to incorporate the cheese into the rice and sauce. Cover the pot again and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  8. Fluff the rice with a fork. Give it a taste and add any extra salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan. Serve immediately.

Notes

Rinse the rice until the water runs clear to prevent a gummy texture. Pat the chicken dry for a good sear. Do not lift the lid while cooking. Grate your own parmesan from a block for a smooth sauce. For reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk and warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot, creamy, garlic parmesan, chicken, rice, easy dinner, 30-minute meal, comfort food

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