This Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice recipe is a vibrant, satisfying meal packed with flavor and easy enough for a busy weeknight. Featuring golden pan-seared chicken with a garlicky Parmesan crust, fluffy rice, and a burst of lemon, this dish delivers everything you want in a well-rounded dinner — protein, grains, and vegetables, all in one bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Balanced and filling: A full meal with lean protein, carbs, and vegetables.
- Garlicky, zesty, and cheesy: Bold flavors with a creamy, citrusy finish.
- Easy prep: Ready in about 40 minutes with basic pantry ingredients.
- Great for leftovers: Stores and reheats well for lunch the next day.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Rice Base:
- 1 cup long grain white rice (or jasmine/basmati)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Optional Vegetable Add-Ins:
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups baby spinach, lightly sautéed or steamed
- 2 tablespoons crumbled feta or Parmesan for topping
How to Make Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
- Cook the rice: In a medium pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Stir in rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes or until rice is tender. Stir in lemon zest and parsley before serving.
- Season and sear the chicken: Pat chicken dry and season both sides with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Add garlic and lemon: Reduce heat to low. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour lemon juice over chicken and sprinkle with Parmesan. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until cheese slightly melts.
- Serve: Plate chicken slices over a bed of lemon rice. Add vegetables and top with additional cheese and herbs if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and delivers better flavor than pre-shredded.
- Slice chicken evenly: Cutting the breasts in half helps them cook faster and more evenly.
- Finish with lemon zest: Zest adds a burst of brightness without overwhelming acidity.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
- Add a dollop of garlic yogurt sauce or tzatziki for extra creaminess.
- For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
FAQs About Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and offer extra juiciness. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Is this dish meal prep friendly?
Absolutely. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and add a splash of broth if needed.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can skip the Parmesan or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative. The garlic-lemon flavor will still shine through.
What rice works best?
Jasmine or basmati rice add a nice fragrance, but any long grain white rice will do. Brown rice works with longer cook time.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice is a flavorful, comforting meal that's easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough to serve guests. The combination of tender chicken, zesty lemon, and savory Parmesan makes it a go-to favorite for anyone craving a hearty and wholesome dinner that still feels fresh and light.