Mediterranean Golden Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Cajun Butter Rice
This dish combines crispy golden garlic Parmesan chicken with rich, creamy Cajun butter rice for a comforting yet flavorful meal. The chicken gets its crunch from a Parmesan-breadcrumb coating, while the rice is cooked in a buttery garlic base and finished with cream and Cajun spices. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels special enough for guests.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
For the Creamy Cajun Butter Rice:
1 tablespoon butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (more if desired)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
In a shallow dish, mix Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and paprika.
Coat each chicken breast in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so it sticks.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
Remove chicken from skillet, cover loosely with foil, and set aside.
Make the Rice:
In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in rice and cook for 1–2 minutes, coating it in the butter and garlic.
Pour in chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, and black pepper. Stir, then bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Add Creamy Finish:
Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook uncovered for 2–3 minutes until creamy and slightly thickened.
Serve:
Plate the Cajun butter rice, top with golden garlic Parmesan chicken, and garnish with parsley if desired.
Tips
Even Cooking: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness before coating so they cook evenly.
Extra Crispiness: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a crunchier coating.
Prevent Soggy Chicken: Let the cooked chicken rest on a wire rack instead of a plate to keep the crust crisp.
Rice Creaminess Control: If you prefer a thicker rice, let it sit uncovered for 2–3 minutes after adding the cream to reduce slightly.
Variations
Mediterranean Twist: Replace Cajun seasoning with a blend of oregano, thyme, rosemary, and lemon zest for a more classic Mediterranean flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra Cajun seasoning for more heat.
Cheese Swap: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago in place of Parmesan for a sharper flavor.
Vegetable Boost: Stir in sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes into the rice before serving.
Light Version: Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter sauce.
Q&A
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well. Just adjust cooking time slightly since thighs may need an extra 1–2 minutes per side.
Q: How can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the chicken and rice separately, store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat gently. Add a splash of broth or cream to refresh the rice before serving.
Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed asparagus pairs well without overpowering the flavors.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in the chicken coating.
Q: Is the Cajun rice too spicy?
A: Not really—it’s mild with 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to taste.
Nutrition Facts
(per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: ~570
Protein: 39g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 780mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
(Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Final Conclusion
Mediterranean Golden Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Cajun Butter Rice is a balanced mix of crispy, savory chicken and rich, flavorful rice. The Parmesan-breadcrumb crust brings texture, while the creamy Cajun butter rice adds warmth and comfort. It’s hearty enough for a family dinner yet elegant enough to serve guests. With simple ingredients and flexible variations, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit your taste, whether you lean more toward bold Cajun spice or classic Mediterranean herbs.