Creamy Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Rice and Spinach is a comforting one-pan meal that combines tender, seared chicken with rich, garlicky rice, fresh spinach, and melted Parmesan. With its creamy texture and bold flavors, this dish offers a satisfying and balanced dinner that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights thanks to its one-pot simplicity and quick cooking time. The creamy rice acts as a luxurious base that absorbs the flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and tender chicken, while spinach adds a nutritious, fresh touch. It’s filling, flavorful, and easy to customize based on your preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Olive oil
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Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
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Salt and black pepper
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Garlic cloves, minced
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Arborio or jasmine rice
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Chicken broth
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Heavy cream
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Grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh spinach, chopped
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Italian seasoning
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Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
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Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
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Season the chicken with salt and black pepper. Add to the skillet and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Stir in the uncooked rice and toast for 1–2 minutes, allowing the grains to absorb the garlic flavor.
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Add the chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes or until the rice is tender.
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Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and chopped spinach. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the mixture is creamy.
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Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice. Simmer gently for another 2 minutes to reheat.
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Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
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Use kale or arugula instead of spinach for a different leafy green.
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Substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for an alternative protein.
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Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth.
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Use brown rice for a whole-grain version (adjust cooking time and liquid as needed).
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Include a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness just before serving.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the rice.
Microwaving is also an option; cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
This dish is not recommended for freezing due to the cream and rice texture changes upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, jasmine and arborio work best, but you can use long-grain or brown rice with adjusted cooking times and liquid amounts.
Is this dish very spicy?
No, the red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted for a milder dish.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can use a dairy-free cream substitute and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan, but the flavor will vary.
What’s the best way to ensure tender chicken?
Do not overcook it. Cook just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and let it rest before slicing.
Can I cook the chicken and rice together?
For best texture, searing the chicken separately ensures better flavor and browning. It’s added back at the end to finish together.
Is this suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats well and makes a satisfying lunch or dinner portion.
What wine pairs with this dish?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy and garlicky notes beautifully.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just ensure your skillet or Dutch oven is large enough to hold the increased volume.
How can I make it more protein-rich?
Add more chicken or toss in white beans or cooked lentils along with the spinach.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw and drain it well before adding to avoid excess moisture.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Rice and Spinach is a rich, flavorful, and balanced one-pan dish that’s as easy as it is satisfying. The combination of seared chicken, garlicky Parmesan rice, and fresh greens makes it a comforting favorite you’ll return to often. Whether for a quick dinner or a cozy meal with family, this recipe is sure to please.
Print
Creamy Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Rice and Spinach
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4- servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Rice and Spinach is a one-pan comfort meal packed with flavor. Juicy chicken, creamy Parmesan rice, and tender spinach come together for a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknights or special dinners.
Ingredients
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup arborio or jasmine rice
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2 1/2 cups chicken broth
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
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Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear until golden brown and cooked through (about 5–6 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
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In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Stir in the rice and toast lightly for 1–2 minutes.
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Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for about 18–20 minutes, until rice is tender.
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Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook until spinach is wilted and sauce is creamy.
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Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the creamy rice around it. Heat through.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
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Arborio rice creates a risotto-like texture, while jasmine rice offers a lighter consistency.
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Adjust the cream and cheese quantities to your taste for a richer or lighter dish.
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Great with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
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