Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ lb), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Rice

• 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)

For the Broccoli

• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Pinch of salt

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. Prepare rice according to package directions.
2. Keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

1. Steam broccoli for 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp.
2. Toss with butter and a pinch of salt.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat chicken with seasoning.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side (or until internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).
5. Remove and keep warm.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Melt butter in the same skillet.
2. Add garlic; cook for 30 seconds.
3. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly whisk in chicken broth.
5. Add heavy cream.
6. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
7. Stir in Parmesan until smooth.
8. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley.

Step 5: Assemble

1. Add rice to bowls.
2. Top with broccoli.
3. Add sliced chicken.
4. Spoon warm Parmesan sauce over everything.
5. Garnish with parsley.

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Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Nutrition values are estimates and vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Helpful Tips

• Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes for extra flavor.
• Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
• Avoid overcooking the broccoli to keep it bright green.
• Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
• Brown rice or cauliflower rice can be used instead of white rice.

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Storage

• Refrigerator: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
• Freezer: Up to 2 months (the sauce may separate slightly when reheated).
• Reheat: Microwave in 30-second intervals or warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth.

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Variations

• Use shrimp instead of chicken.
• Add mushrooms or spinach.
• Replace broccoli with asparagus or green beans.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Add cooked bacon for extra flavor.

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Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay juicy and work very well.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes. Store the chicken, rice, broccoli, and sauce separately for the best texture.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes. Steam it according to the package instructions and drain well before serving.

Q: How do I make it healthier?
A: Use brown rice, reduced-fat milk with a little cornstarch instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of Parmesan.

Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: It can be. Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.

Q: What side dishes go well with it?
A: Garlic bread, a green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light soup.

Q: Can I make it low-carb?
A: Yes. Replace the rice with cauliflower rice or additional steamed vegetables.

Q: Why is my Parmesan sauce grainy?
A: Use freshly grated Parmesan, keep the heat low, and stir until just melted. High heat can cause the cheese to separate.

Q: What herbs pair well with this dish?
A: Parsley, thyme, basil, oregano, and chives all complement the creamy garlic Parmesan flavor.