This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice dish is a simple yet delicious meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch. The juicy chicken tenders are cooked to perfection, paired with a flavorful garlic parmesan rice that’s creamy, cheesy, and comforting. The fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, while the lemon wedges provide a zesty contrast to the richness of the dish. Here’s how to make this delightful meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken tenders: These are tender, juicy strips of chicken that cook quickly and are perfect for this dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken, giving it a nice sear and flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the chicken and bringing out its natural flavors.
- 1 cup white rice: The base of the dish, providing a starchy, filling component.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Used to cook the rice, infusing it with rich, savory flavor.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds richness and a slight creaminess to the rice.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a key flavor component, adding depth and aromatic richness to the rice.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the garlic and chicken.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds freshness and a pop of color to the dish.
- Lemon wedges, for serving: The acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness, balancing the flavors.
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish: Because you can never have too much cheese!
Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil is heating, season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken tenders to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Cover with foil to keep warm while you prepare the rice.
2. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Rice:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the white rice to the skillet and stir to coat the rice with the garlic butter. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, to lightly toast the rice.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the rice is creamy.
- Add the chopped fresh parsley and stir to combine. The parsley will add a fresh, herbaceous flavor and brighten up the dish.
3. Serve the Dish:
- To serve, scoop a generous portion of the garlic Parmesan rice onto each plate. Place the cooked chicken tenders on top of the rice.
- Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra pop of flavor and color.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side. Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the chicken and rice adds a bright, zesty contrast to the rich flavors.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Vegetables: For a more balanced meal, you can add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the rice.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing.
- Use Different Herbs: Instead of parsley, you can try using fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary to change up the flavor profile.
- Swap the Protein: This recipe is versatile; you can easily swap the chicken tenders for shrimp, pork chops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Serving Suggestions:
- With a Side Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette would pair wonderfully with the rich, creamy rice and chicken.
- Garlic Bread: Serve this dish with a side of garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce from the rice.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots would complement the flavors and add some extra nutrients.
Storing and Reheating:
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the rice seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back the creamy consistency.
This Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a perfect dish for those nights when you want something quick, easy, and utterly delicious. The combination of tender, juicy chicken with rich, cheesy garlic rice is a match made in heaven. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy!
