Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice

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Imagine a sizzling skillet loaded with juicy, golden-seared chicken, nestled into buttery garlic rice, and speckled with sweet corn kernels. Finished with a dusting of fresh parsley and a blanket of Parmesan cheese, this meal tastes like comfort and satisfaction in every single bite. Whether you’re wrapping up a long day or serving a quick dinner to guests, this one-pan wonder delivers with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

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This Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice is everything you want in a weeknight recipe: hearty, fast, and absolutely irresistible. The seared chicken develops a deep caramelized crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy rice base, enhanced with garlic, corn, and cheesy richness. No complicated steps. Just wholesome, flavor-packed cooking in one skillet.


What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best for this skillet dish because they stay juicy and flavorful when seared. Chicken breasts can be used too if you’re looking for a leaner option, but make sure not to overcook them. For extra depth, marinate the chicken in a touch of olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika beforehand.

Ingredients for the Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice

  • Chicken Thighs: Juicy, tender, and perfect for a rich sear in the skillet.
  • Corn Kernels: Adds sweetness and a slight crunch that balances the savory notes.
  • Long Grain White Rice: Soaks up all the flavor from the garlic and broth, creating a fluffy and aromatic base.
  • Fresh Garlic: Infuses the rice and chicken with bold, savory flavor.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the rice for creamy, salty goodness.
  • Chicken Broth: Deepens the flavor of the rice and keeps it moist.
  • Butter: Used for cooking the garlic and to add rich flavor to the rice.
  • Parsley: A fresh, herbal finishing touch.

How To Make the Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Sear for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Corn

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt butter. Add minced garlic and corn kernels. Cook until fragrant and the corn begins to brown slightly, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Stir in the uncooked rice, letting it toast for a minute. Then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat, cover, and cook for 15–18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Add the Chicken Back

Place the seared chicken thighs back on top of the cooked rice. Cover the skillet and let everything heat together for 5 more minutes.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Parsley

Sprinkle grated Parmesan generously over the chicken and rice, then top with chopped parsley. Serve hot right from the skillet.


How to Serve and Store This Skillet Dish

Serve this meal hot straight from the skillet to enjoy the full impact of its textures and aromas. For leftovers, let the dish cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to refresh the rice.


What to Serve With Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice?

Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Soft, fluffy, and perfect for mopping up every last bit of garlicky rice.

Creamy Cucumber Salad

A chilled contrast to the warmth and richness of the skillet.

Sauteed Green Beans

Quick to prepare and adds vibrant color and crunch to your plate.

Sweet Honey Glazed Carrots

A naturally sweet side that balances the savory skillet.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, parmesan, and croutons bring freshness to the table.

Baked Parmesan Zucchini

More cheese? Yes, please. These pair so well with the rice.

Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes

Another comforting choice with herby warmth Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes.


Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this skillet hit the spot, these other SavorQueen favorites will definitely earn a place in your weekly rotation:


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Tried it with a twist? Maybe a touch of spice or some creamy mushrooms stirred in? Let me know in the comments—I’m always looking for your creative spins!

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Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice

Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice


  • Author: Julia Walton
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Savor the cozy goodness of this Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice—your new go-to for easy dinner ideas. Juicy chicken thighs, seared to golden perfection, are layered over a bed of fluffy garlic rice mixed with sweet corn and rich Parmesan. It’s a one-pan, quick dinner recipe made for busy weeknights and last-minute gatherings. This hearty and comforting dish blends bold flavors and minimal effort, making it perfect for quick lunches, food ideas for the family, or satisfying healthy snacks. If you’re looking for an easy recipe that’s guaranteed to impress, this one’s a must-try.


Ingredients

1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs

1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

1 cup long grain white rice

3 cloves garlic, minced

0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2.5 cups chicken broth

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon paprika

0.5 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)


Instructions

1. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–7 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and corn. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly browned.

4. Stir in uncooked rice and let it toast for 1 minute.

5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 15–18 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

6. Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it on top of the rice. Cover and heat for 5 more minutes.

7. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Serve hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate chicken in olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika for 30 minutes before cooking.

Add a splash of broth when reheating to bring the rice back to life.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 1/4 of skillet)
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: easy dinner, chicken and rice, skillet meal, comfort food, one-pan meal

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