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Crispy Parmesan-crusted chicken breast served over creamy garlic-infused rice, garnished with fresh parsley and a lemon wedge.

The Best Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Jordan Mike
Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the ultimate comfort meal with crispy, cheesy chicken over creamy garlic-infused rice. Easy, delicious, and family-friendly!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course main dishes
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4
Calories 620 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into cutlets)

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs panko or regular

1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp paprika

  • 1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

  • 1 large egg beaten
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for frying

For the Rice:

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups chicken broth

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tbsp butter

1 tsp dried Italian seasoning

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  • Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to ensure a crispy, golden crust when searing.
  • Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning to build depth of flavor.
  • Coat the chicken with grated Parmesan, pressing it into the surface for a rich, cheesy crust.

Step 2: Sear for Maximum Flavor

  • Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
  • Remove from the pan and set aside—don’t worry about cooking it through just yet, as it will finish in the rice.

Step 3: Build the Rice Base

  • In the same pan, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
  • Stir in long-grain rice, toasting it slightly for a nutty, aromatic base.
  • Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

  • Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the pan, ensuring they’re partially submerged.
  • Cover and let everything simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors while the chicken cooks through.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan Goodness

  • Once the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, remove from heat.
  • Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the top and let it melt into the dish for an ultra-creamy finish.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley for a bright, herbaceous touch.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  • Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.
  • Pair with a side of steamed vegetables, a crisp green salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 620
  • Total Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Protein: 45g

Recipe Category

  • Course: Main Dish
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: High-Protein
  • Method: Pan-Frying, Simmering
  • Keyword: Parmesan Chicken & Rice, Comfort Food, Easy Chicken Recipe
  • Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Keyword Comfort Food, Hearty Meal, easy chicken recipe, Parmesan Chicken & Rice