Description
This Creamy Parmesan Spinach Rice with Spicy Garlic Chicken is your new go-to for a satisfying, flavor-packed meal. Tender, spicy garlic chicken meets a bed of creamy, cheesy spinach-infused rice for the ultimate comfort food fusion. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a bold new food idea, or an easy recipe that feels restaurant-worthy, this dish checks every box. Great for weeknights, cozy dinners, or healthy-ish indulgent bites, it’s the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and hearty. Ideal for those seeking dinner ideas, quick meals, or versatile recipes that impress without stress.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
1 cup arborio rice
3 cups chicken broth, warm
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)
Instructions
1. Slice chicken breasts into cutlets or strips.
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, paprika, chili flakes, salt, pepper, and parsley. Coat chicken and marinate for 20–30 minutes.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken pieces for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
4. In the same skillet, lower heat to medium, add butter, and toast arborio rice for 1–2 minutes.
5. Gradually add warm chicken broth, ½ cup at a time, stirring often. Let each addition absorb before the next.
6. After about 15–18 minutes, when the rice is creamy and nearly done, stir in chopped spinach and let it wilt.
7. Mix in Parmesan and heavy cream (if using). Stir well until creamy and smooth.
8. Plate the rice and top with the spicy garlic chicken. Garnish with parsley and extra chili flakes if desired.
Notes
For maximum flavor, don’t skip marinating the chicken—it makes a huge difference.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smooth, velvety rice texture.
Add broth gradually and stir often for perfectly creamy rice without using cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion / Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 780
- Fat: 29
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 17
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 32
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 38
- Cholesterol: 110
Keywords: creamy chicken rice, easy dinner recipe, spicy garlic chicken, parmesan spinach rice, food ideas