The Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe is a delightful one-pan meal that brings together juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken thighs with sweet corn and creamy garlic parmesan rice. This dish balances savory and comforting flavors with ease, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without a fuss. The rice gets wonderfully creamy from the parmesan and butter, while the corn adds a touch of sweetness and texture. It’s a reliable favorite that feels special every time you serve it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe calls for simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients that each add a unique element to the dish. They are carefully chosen to create a harmony of flavors, textures, and colors that make the meal so inviting and delicious.
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Juicy and tender, these form the hearty protein base for the dish.
- Cooked white rice: Provides a fluffy, comforting backdrop that soaks up all those wonderful flavors.
- Corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen): Adds bursts of natural sweetness and a little crunch to contrast the creamy rice.
- Unsalted butter: Enhances richness and gives the rice its luscious, creamy texture.
- Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to a golden crisp, locking in flavor and moisture.
- Minced garlic: Brings aromatic depth that brightens up the entire dish.
- Grated parmesan cheese: Melts into the rice, infusing a nutty, savory essence that elevates every bite.
- Chicken broth: Adds moisture and a savory boost, making the rice perfectly tender.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to enhance all the natural flavors.
- Paprika: Offers subtle smoky warmth to the chicken for an added layer of taste.
- Fresh parsley: Finely chopped for a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.
How to Make Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Begin by patting your chicken dry to ensure a beautiful golden crust. Season it generously with salt, pepper, and paprika for a subtle smoky kick. Heat the olive oil along with a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook each side for about 4 to 5 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. This step locks in juices and creates layers of flavor. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Corn
In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add another tablespoon of butter. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for just 30 seconds until its irresistible aroma fills the kitchen. Then add the corn kernels, stirring gently as they cook for 2 to 3 minutes. This process warms the corn and gives it a slight golden hint that adds texture and sweetness to the dish.
Step 3: Combine Rice and Broth
Next, stir in the cooked white rice, breaking up any clumps and distributing the corn evenly. Pour in the chicken broth, which adds necessary moisture and depth of flavor, helping the rice reheat while absorbing savory goodness. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the flavors start melding beautifully.
Step 4: Stir in Butter and Parmesan
Add the final tablespoon of butter and the grated parmesan cheese to the skillet. Keep stirring continuously so the cheese melts smoothly into the rice, creating a creamy, luscious coating. Season with a pinch more salt if needed, remembering that parmesan naturally adds saltiness. This step is where the rice transforms into a rich, indulgent side that steals the spotlight.
Step 5: Nestle Chicken Back into the Skillet
Place the cooked chicken pieces back into the skillet, nestling them gently into the creamy rice mixture. Let everything rest together for 2 to 3 minutes. This allows the flavors to marry perfectly and the chicken to warm through once more. The result is a unified dish that feels thoughtfully crafted and deeply comforting.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley over the dish for bright pops of color and a fresh, herbal lift. Serve the Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe hot and straight from the pan to capture the warmth and rustic charm of this lovely meal.
How to Serve Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the star garnish here, adding a vibrant green contrast and a hint of freshness that keeps every bite lively. For an extra touch, consider a light dusting of grated parmesan right before serving or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the richness.
Side Dishes
This skillet meal works wonderfully as a complete dinner but pairs beautifully with crisp steamed vegetables or a simple side salad if you want to lighten things up. Roasted asparagus or green beans bring a bit of crunch and earthiness that complements the creamy rice.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style presentation, serve the skillet right in the pan at the table so everyone can help themselves. Or plate individual portions topped with some extra parmesan and parsley for a more elegant look. You could also add colorful roasted cherry tomatoes or avocado slices to each plate for a fresh, vibrant twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep or quick lunches.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish if needed, though the rice texture may change slightly upon thawing. Pack portions tightly in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the skillet contents gently in a pan over low heat or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out the rice and chicken. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating helps retain creaminess and moisture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be substituted and work well in this recipe. Just be careful not to overcook them to keep them juicy and tender.
Is it okay to use frozen corn?
Yes, frozen corn is a convenient choice and works perfectly in this dish. Just thaw or cook it slightly before adding to the skillet to remove any excess moisture.
Can I make this recipe with brown rice?
You can use brown rice but note that it takes longer to cook and has a firmer texture. Use already cooked brown rice for best results and adjust cooking times accordingly.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have parmesan on hand, pecorino Romano or asiago cheese are tasty alternatives that provide a similar savory punch. For a dairy-free version, nutritional yeast can be used to add cheesy flavor.
How do I keep the rice from sticking to the skillet?
Make sure to use enough butter and chicken broth to create a creamy texture that keeps the rice moist. Stir frequently during cooking and avoid high heat, which can cause sticking or burning.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe is a true weeknight hero — it’s straightforward, satisfying, and loaded with comforting flavors that feel like a warm hug at the dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s sure to become a beloved staple that you’ll return to again and again. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious results!
Print
Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a delicious one-pan meal featuring juicy seared chicken thighs cooked alongside sweet corn and creamy garlic Parmesan rice. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
Garlic Parmesan Rice and Corn
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 1.5 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season and Sear the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season all over with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Corn: In the same skillet, reduce heat slightly. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in corn and sauté for 2–3 minutes until warmed through and lightly golden.
- Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the cooked white rice and pour in the chicken broth. Mix well to combine and heat through evenly.
- Incorporate Butter and Parmesan: Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
- Return Chicken to Skillet: Nestle the cooked chicken back into the rice mixture in the skillet. Let it sit for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot directly from the skillet for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can use either chicken thighs or breasts depending on preference; thighs will be juicier.
- Fresh, canned, or frozen corn all work well—adjust cooking time slightly if using frozen.
- For a lower-fat option, reduce the butter amount or substitute with olive oil.
- If desired, substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
