Description
This Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a flavor-packed, one-pan wonder that makes weeknight cooking feel special. With crispy seared chicken thighs, sweet corn kernels, buttery garlic, and creamy Parmesan rice, it’s the kind of easy dinner that satisfies every time. Whether you’re hunting for quick dinner ideas, hearty food ideas, or a cozy but easy recipe, this dish delivers. Perfect for busy nights or low-effort entertaining, this skillet meal is ready in under 40 minutes and uses pantry staples you likely already have.
Ingredients
4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
2 cups cooked long grain white rice
1 ½ cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
¼ cup chicken broth (optional, for loosening the rice if needed)
Instructions
1. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Lower heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add corn kernels and cook for 2–3 minutes, letting them get slightly charred.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, mixing everything well. Add chicken broth if needed to loosen the rice.
6. Turn off the heat and fold in the grated Parmesan until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
7. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice. Spoon some of the mixture on top.
8. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, let rest for 2–3 minutes, then serve warm.
Notes
Use day-old rice for best texture—it won’t clump like freshly cooked rice.
Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to refresh the rice.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives more flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: quick dinner, easy skillet meal, garlic Parmesan rice, one pan dinner, weeknight recipe, chicken skillet