Ingredients

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon paprika

3 tablespoons butter

4 garlic cloves, minced

½ cup chicken broth

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1 tablespoon chopped parsley

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 tablespoon butter (for rice)

2 garlic cloves, minced (for rice)

1 cup white rice

2 cups chicken broth (for rice)

½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for rice)

Instructions

Step 1: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Reduce the heat to low. Add 3 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.

Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Add the lemon zest and let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 5: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to combine flavors.

Step 6: Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté briefly until fragrant.

Step 7: Stir in the white rice and toast it for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 8: Add 2 cups of chicken broth to the rice, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Step 9: Remove the rice from the heat. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley until well combined.

Step 10: Serve the chicken breasts over the garlic Parmesan rice. Spoon extra sauce from the skillet over the top. Garnish with additional parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly in lemon juice and garlic before cooking.

Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best taste and texture in the rice.

Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a richer flavor.

Swap white rice for brown rice for a heartier, whole-grain option—just increase cooking time accordingly.

If you prefer less heat, omit the red pepper flakes or reduce the amount.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to stay more moist. Adjust cooking time slightly, cooking until the thighs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).