Juicy Baked Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Rice – A Quick and Delicious Weeknight Dinner
Get ready to indulge in a flavorful chicken dinner that will have your taste buds dancing! This easy recipe features tender, juicy baked chicken breasts served on a bed of creamy garlic parmesan rice – a perfect combo that will quickly become your go-to weeknight meal.
The Perfect Crispy Chicken
The chicken is coated with a crispy mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning, then baked to golden perfection. The crispy exterior locks in the moisture, keeping the chicken tender and juicy inside, delivering every bite with rich, savory flavor.
Irresistibly Creamy Garlic Parmesan Rice
This rice is a game-changer. Simmered in a rich broth made from parmesan rinds, it turns out exceptionally creamy and full of umami flavor. Just before serving, fresh garlic, lemon juice, and parmesan are stirred in to enhance the flavor, creating a perfectly balanced dish.
A Perfect Pairing in Under 40 Minutes
The combination of the crispy chicken and the creamy, cheesy rice is unbeatable. And the best part? This meal comes together in just 40 minutes! Simply prep the chicken, pop it in the oven, and cook the rice while the chicken bakes. It’s a hassle-free dinner that’s ready in no time.
This chicken and rice dish is not only delicious, but also budget-friendly and kid-approved. Plus, you can use up leftover Parmesan rinds instead of throwing them away, adding even more flavor to the rice.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What makes the coating on the chicken so crispy?
The panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and seasonings create a golden, crunchy crust. The panko bakes up crispy while the parmesan adds a nutty, browned finish. Garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper enhance the flavor for the perfect crust.
How does simmering the rice in parmesan broth make it creamy?
Simmering rice in a parmesan-infused broth delivers rich, savory flavors. The starch from the rice and parmesan rinds helps thicken the broth, giving it a creamy consistency. Adding lemon juice, garlic, and parmesan right before serving boosts the flavor with tanginess and extra cheese.
What gives this dish its Italian flavor?
Garlic, oregano, parmesan, and lemon juice bring authentic Italian flair to the dish. Garlic adds an aromatic depth, oregano gives an earthy herbal note, parmesan delivers a nutty cheese flavor, and lemon brightens the dish with its acidity.
Why is this recipe perfect for weeknights?
The chicken only needs 20 minutes of prep time and bakes unattended. While the chicken cooks, the rice simmers on the stove, making this meal ready in under 40 minutes with minimal hands-on time.
Why is this dish so appealing to kids?
Kids love the crispy crunch of the panko coating on the chicken and the creamy, cheesy texture of the rice. This meal offers delicious flavors and textures that children enjoy, without being overly processed or complicated.
Ready to make this easy, flavorful dinner tonight? Enjoy crispy, juicy chicken paired with rich, creamy garlic parmesan rice for a quick, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (approximately 2 lbs) – Bone-in thighs deliver more flavor and juiciness.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Provides a light coating to help the crispy exterior form.
- 2 large eggs, beaten – Helps the panko breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – Creates a golden, crunchy coating for the chicken.
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese – Adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Adds moisture and helps with crisping.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Provides aromatic flavor and depth.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Brings a fragrant, earthy taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika – Adds vibrant color and a subtle smoky flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances and balances the overall flavor.
- For the Rice:
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth – For a rich, flavorful base for the rice.
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice – Creates a light and fluffy texture.
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving – Adds a creamy, cheesy finish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Provides aromatic flavor.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice – Brightens and balances the richness of the dish.
- 2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and creaminess.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances the flavors of the rice..
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Instructions
For the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Pat bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs dry using paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- In one shallow dish, place 1/2 cup all-purpose flour. In a second dish, whisk together 2 large eggs. In a third dish, combine 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Coat each chicken thigh by dredging it in the flour, dipping it into the egg mixture, and then pressing it into the panko mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides.
- Arrange the coated chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown, crispy, and fully cooked through.
For the Rice:
- In a saucepan, bring 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth to a boil.
- Stir in 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes until the rice is tender and the broth is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, then stir in 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, 2 cloves minced garlic, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the crispy chicken over the creamy, garlicky parmesan rice. For extra flavor, garnish with additional parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: For the richest, most flavorful dish, always opt for freshly grated parmesan cheese. Avoid Overcrowding the Chicken: Ensure the chicken thighs have enough space on the baking sheet to cook evenly and achieve that crispy texture. Check for Doneness: Before removing the chicken and rice from heat, double-check that both are cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the rice should be tender and fluffy. Let the Chicken Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender. Stir the Rice Gently: To maintain a fluffy texture, stir the rice gently after cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy. Storage Tips: Store any leftovers separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick meal. Enjoy the Perfect Pairing: Relish the combination of crispy, juicy chicken with creamy, cheesy garlic rice—a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!
