If you are on the hunt for a comforting, flavorful meal that feels both special and effortlessly satisfying, the Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish pairs tender, juicy chicken breasts bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce with creamy, cheesy Parmesan rice that soaks up every bit of flavor. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights yet elegant enough to impress guests. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again because it hits all the right notes—comfort, simplicity, and incredible taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple but essential ingredients that each play a big role in bringing the dish to life. From fragrant garlic and fresh parsley to rich butter and tangy Parmesan, every component enhances the texture, color, or flavor in a meaningful way.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that stays juicy and tender when cooked right.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the chicken perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle, warming kick to balance the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Offers a mild smoky sweetness and beautiful color.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection without sticking.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates the luscious garlic butter sauce that elevates the chicken.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings irresistible aroma and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a savory, herbal touch.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a gentle heat to complement the buttery sauce.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh pop of green and brightness at the end.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: The base of the Parmesan rice—fluffy and perfectly cooked.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Infuses the rice with savory flavor, making it more than just plain rice.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Boosts richness in the rice alongside the broth.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Brings cheesy richness and a creamy texture to the rice.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors in the rice without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Finishes with a gentle spice in the rice.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a golden brown crust that locks in the juices while cooking the chicken through. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add the butter. When it melts into a rich, golden pool, toss in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon that luscious garlic butter sauce over each breast, letting the flavors coat the meat beautifully. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a vibrant finish.
Step 3: Cook the Parmesan Rice
While the chicken finishes, it’s time to make the creamy Parmesan rice. Bring the chicken broth and butter to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the rice along with salt and pepper, stir well, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until tender and all the liquid is absorbed. Remove the saucepan from heat, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the rice becomes irresistibly creamy and cheesy.
Step 4: Plate and Serve
Serve the golden garlic butter chicken breasts atop a generous bed of the cheesy Parmesan rice. Spoon any extra garlic butter sauce from the skillet over the chicken for maximum flavor. This dish really shines with its harmonious blend of buttery, garlicky chicken paired with rich, creamy rice that’s packed full of comforting nuances.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that balances the richness. You could also add a wedge of lemon on the side for a zesty bright contrast that some will love.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides like steamed broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a fresh garden salad. These sides not only add color but also provide a nice textural contrast and a hit of freshness to complement the buttery chicken and rich rice.
Creative Ways to Present
For a touch of elegance, serve the chicken sliced on a platter over a mound of Parmesan rice with a drizzle of the garlic butter sauce. Use individual ramekins for the rice and place the whole chicken breast on top for a restaurant-worthy presentation. Adding edible flowers or microgreens can also make the dish pop visually if you’re hosting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, store any leftover Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers too. Keep the chicken and rice stored together or separately in freezer-safe containers. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool the food completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth to the rice to bring back its creamy texture, and rewarm the chicken in the garlic butter sauce to keep it moist and flavorful. Avoid overheating so the chicken stays tender.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used if you prefer extra juicy, slightly darker meat. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through but remain tender.
Is there a substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano works beautifully as a substitute and will add a slightly sharper flavor. For a milder option, you can try a good-quality asiago or aged cheddar.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. Double-check labels if you’re concerned about hidden gluten in seasonings or broth.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that complements but does not overpower the garlic butter sauce. You can easily omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I prepare the rice in advance?
Yes, you can cook the Parmesan rice ahead of time. Store it separately and reheat with a bit of broth or butter to revive the creamy texture before serving with the garlic butter chicken.
Final Thoughts
The Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy to prepare yet packed with rich, comforting flavors that make mealtime exciting and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding your family or looking to impress friends without stress, this recipe will quickly become a beloved classic in your rotation. Go ahead and treat yourself—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice is a comforting and flavorful main course featuring tender pan-seared chicken breasts simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce, served over creamy Parmesan-infused rice. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish combines juicy chicken with a cheesy, buttery side for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For the Parmesan Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika to enhance flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
- Make Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Combine Chicken with Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the chicken evenly. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top and keep warm while preparing the rice.
- Prepare the Parmesan Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth and butter to a boil. Stir in the rice, salt, and black pepper, then cover and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes or until the rice absorbs all the liquid and becomes tender.
- Finish the Rice: Remove the rice from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the rice is creamy and well combined.
- Serve: Plate the Parmesan rice and place the garlic butter chicken breasts on top. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce from the skillet over the dish and serve immediately.
Notes
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier option.
- For added richness, stir in a splash of cream into the Parmesan rice just before serving.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
