Garlic Parmesan Rice with Juicy Chicken Tenders is a savory and comforting dish that perfectly balances the flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and tender chicken. This dish is rich, creamy, and full of flavor, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of juicy chicken tenders with the creamy garlic Parmesan rice is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken tenders: Chicken tenders are quick to cook and remain juicy when prepared properly.
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a strong, aromatic flavor that complements the Parmesan and chicken.
- 1.5 cups of uncooked white rice: The rice serves as the base for this dish, absorbing all the flavors from the broth, garlic, and Parmesan.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Chicken broth adds depth of flavor to the rice, making it more savory and rich.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese gives the rice a creamy, cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with the garlic.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine: White wine adds a subtle acidity and complexity to the dish.
- 1 stick of butter: Butter is used to cook the rice and chicken, adding richness and a creamy texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil is used to sear the chicken tenders, giving them a nice golden crust.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder enhances the garlic flavor in the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Basic seasonings that bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Tenders:
- Start by seasoning the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed to ensure the chicken is flavorful.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken tenders to the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the skillet and set them aside. Keep them warm while you prepare the rice.
2. Cook the Garlic and Rice:
- In the same skillet, melt the stick of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Add the uncooked white rice to the skillet with the garlic and butter. Stir the rice to coat it in the garlic butter, and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast.
3. Add the Liquid Ingredients:
- Pour in the dry white wine, stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it reduces slightly.
- Add the chicken broth to the skillet, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the rice simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.
4. Incorporate the Parmesan Cheese:
- Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese should melt into the rice, creating a creamy, cheesy consistency.
- Taste the rice and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if necessary.
5. Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked chicken tenders to the skillet, placing them on top of the garlic Parmesan rice. Cover the skillet and let the chicken warm through for about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve the Garlic Parmesan Rice with Juicy Chicken Tenders hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the garlic Parmesan rice and chicken.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make great side dishes that complement this meal.
- With Garlic Bread: For a truly indulgent meal, serve with warm garlic bread on the side.
Tips and Variations:
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add some vegetables to the rice, such as peas, spinach, or mushrooms, to make it a more complete meal.
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the rice while it’s cooking.
- Cheese Variations: For a different flavor, try using a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Asiago in addition to the Parmesan.
Garlic Parmesan Rice with Juicy Chicken Tenders is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy. The creamy, cheesy rice combined with the tender, seasoned chicken creates a meal that feels indulgent yet is simple enough to make on any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and tender chicken in this delightful recipe!
