Name: Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter); 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed); Zest of 1 lemon; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional); Lemon slices (optional)

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’m sharing a comforting, one-pan meal where juicy, seasoned chicken meets creamy, garlic-infused rice with a bright pop of lemon and a savory Parmesan finish. Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love that this recipe creates a flavor explosion—tangy lemon, aromatic garlic, and rich Parmesan come together beautifully. It’s all made in one pan, so cleanup is a breeze. The rice soaks up all those bold flavors, giving me creamy texture without heaviness. The chicken delivers satisfying protein, and I can easily customize it by adding veggies or tweaking seasonings.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Rice:

1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
Zest of 1 lemon
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon slices

directions

I begin by seasoning the chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Then, I heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. Once done, I set the chicken aside.

In the same pan, I add a bit more oil or butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. I stir in the uncooked rice to toast slightly and absorb the flavor, then pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. I bring it to a simmer, cover, and let it cook until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Once the rice is cooked, I stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and creates a creamy texture. I return the chicken to the pan to warm through and garnish everything with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

I can switch the chicken thighs for chicken breasts or even use rotisserie chicken for convenience. For a veggie boost, I add spinach, peas, or steamed broccoli. Sometimes I use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, though it needs a longer cook time. I also like to increase the lemon juice if I’m craving more tang or use cream for extra richness instead of just broth.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to bring back the creamy consistency. It also reheats well in the microwave, covered loosely to prevent drying out.

FAQs

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

I make sure to use certified gluten-free chicken broth and double-check that all my ingredients, like Parmesan, don’t contain any hidden gluten.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, I sometimes swap thighs for chicken breasts for a leaner option. I just make sure not to overcook them so they stay juicy.

What vegetables go well in this dish?

I like adding spinach, asparagus, or broccoli. I stir them in near the end of cooking or steam them separately and mix them in just before serving.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

I can use brown rice, but I need to increase the cooking time and liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook and absorbs more broth.

How do I keep the Parmesan from clumping?

I stir the Parmesan in while the rice is still hot but off the heat, allowing it to melt gently and distribute evenly through the rice.

Conclusion

This Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a cozy, flavorful, and easy meal that I keep coming back to. It brings together zesty, cheesy, and garlicky goodness all in one pan. Whether I want a weeknight dinner or a quick way to impress guests, this recipe always delivers comfort and satisfaction without the fuss.

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Rice