If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with flavor, creamy richness, and comforting textures, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Fluffy Rice and White Wine Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender chicken tenders are perfectly seasoned and seared, nestled atop a bed of fluffy, garlicky Parmesan-infused rice, all brought together by a luscious white wine sauce that elevates every bite. It’s a harmonious blend of savory, buttery, and slightly tangy notes, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special Sunday feast that feels both fancy and homey.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing beats a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create magic on your plate. Each component in this recipe plays a key role, from the aromatic garlic to the creamy butter, ensuring every mouthful is packed with flavor and a beautiful texture contrast.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Essential for searing the chicken, creating a perfect golden crust.
- ½ cup butter (1 stick): Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce and rice.
- 1 pound chicken tenders: Tender and quick-cooking, they soak up the flavors beautifully.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Gives an extra layer of garlic flavor balanced with the fresh minced garlic.
- 2 tbsp minced garlic: The star ingredient, infusing the dish with a warm, aromatic punch.
- 1 tsp salt, divided: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming.
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes: Just a hint of heat to add subtle excitement to each bite.
- 1 ½ cups white rice (uncooked): The fluffy base that soaks up the wine sauce and Parmesan perfectly.
- ½ cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio): Brightens and adds depth with a touch of acidity.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated or shredded): Creates cheesy, melty richness with a salty tang.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Liquids that cook the rice and infuse savory flavor.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning the chicken and adjusting the final taste.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Fluffy Rice and White Wine Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pat your chicken tenders dry, then season them evenly with garlic powder, half the salt, and freshly ground pepper. Sear the chicken for several minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. This initial sear locks in moisture and flavor, creating a juicy centerpiece for your dish. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the butter, which will mingle beautifully with the browned bits left from the chicken. Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and the remaining salt, sautéing until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden but not burned. Pour in the dry white wine, like a crisp Pinot Grigio, and let it simmer for about five minutes. This simmering not only cooks off the alcohol but also concentrates the wine’s brightness, creating a silky, flavorful sauce. Before moving on, scoop out a little of this sauce to drizzle on top of the chicken later.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Next, sprinkle the uncooked white rice into the skillet, stirring to coat each grain in the luscious butter, garlic, and wine mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and raise the heat to bring everything to a gentle boil. Reduce to a simmer and cover, cooking until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, about 15 to 20 minutes. This step ensures the rice comes out fluffy and infused with all those savory layers of flavor.
Step 4: Add the Parmesan and Rest
Once your rice is perfectly cooked, generously sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top. Arrange your seared chicken tenders neatly atop the cheesy rice, then cover the skillet and let it stand for a few minutes. This resting period allows the cheese to melt into the rice and the chicken to warm through gently, blending all the flavors into a cohesive, irresistible dish.
Step 5: Finish with White Wine Sauce and Serve
Finally, drizzle the reserved white wine sauce over the chicken for an extra burst of flavor and moisture. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and serve immediately while it’s warm and inviting. This final touch makes every bite just a little more luxurious and aromatic.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Fluffy Rice and White Wine Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish even further, fresh herbs like parsley or chives bring a pleasant pop of green and freshness that cuts through the richness. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors and add a lovely finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Since this recipe already offers a complete package with protein and carbs, consider adding light veggies for balance. Steamed asparagus, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette complement the creamy chicken and rice perfectly without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or just to impress a loved one, consider plating the rice as a neat mound and fanning chicken tenders around it. Drizzle the white wine sauce artistically over the top and finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Using a cast-iron skillet for serving adds warmth and rustic charm to the table presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The rice may absorb more of the sauce flavors, making it even tastier the next day, but be sure to keep the chicken separated if you want to maintain its texture.
Freezing
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Fluffy Rice and White Wine Sauce Recipe freezes well. Place cooled portions in labeled freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Add a splash of broth or a little butter when reheating the rice to help restore its creamy texture and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well too. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to make sure the chicken is cooked through and juicy.
What type of white wine is best for the sauce?
A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works best because it offers brightness without sweetness, enhancing the sauce without overpowering the other flavors.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just double-check that your chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are gluten-free, as some brands add preservatives or flavorings. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Is there a substitute for the white wine?
If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute the white wine with additional chicken broth mixed with a bit of white wine vinegar or lemon juice to maintain acidity and depth.
How do I get the rice so fluffy and tender?
Using the right amount of chicken broth and simmering the rice gently without lifting the lid helps ensure the steam cooks the rice evenly, resulting in fluffy grains every time.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about a dish that feels effortlessly elegant yet is incredibly easy to throw together, and this Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Fluffy Rice and White Wine Sauce Recipe hits that sweet spot perfectly. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or cooking for someone special, it’s sure to become a comforting favorite. Give it a try, and watch how quickly it becomes a dinner staple that brings warmth and joy to your table.
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Fluffy Rice and White Wine Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This flavorful Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice recipe combines tender chicken tenders seared to perfection and served over a creamy, garlicky Parmesan rice infused with white wine and aromatic spices. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a comforting and delicious meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce and Rice
- ½ c. butter (1 stick)
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
- ½ c. dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
- 1 ½ c. white rice (uncooked)
- 3 c. chicken broth
- ½ c. Parmesan cheese (grated or shredded)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season and Sear Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken tenders evenly with garlic powder, half of the salt, and pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet and sear until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 4-6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Build Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and the remaining salt. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the white wine and allow it to cook down and reduce for about 5 minutes. Reserve some of this flavorful sauce for drizzling on the finished chicken.
- Cook the Rice: Add the uncooked white rice to the skillet with the garlic and wine mixture, stirring to coat the grains well. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, about 15-20 minutes.
- Combine and Rest: Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the rice. Arrange the seared chicken tenders on top of the rice, then cover the skillet and let it stand off the heat for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the cheese to melt.
- Serve and Garnish: Drizzle the reserved garlic and white wine sauce over the chicken and rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy a rich, flavorful meal.
Notes
- Use dry white wine like Pinot Grigio for a subtle, fruity flavor that complements the dish.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes slightly.
- Feel free to substitute chicken tenders with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; just adjust cooking time accordingly.
- For a creamier texture, you can stir in an additional tablespoon of butter or a splash of cream before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
