One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the ultimate comfort food that’s simple to prepare and incredibly flavorful. This dish combines juicy, tender chicken breasts with creamy Parmesan sauce and fluffy rice, all cooked together in one pan. The creamy texture of the sauce, combined with the rich flavors of Parmesan and garlic, makes every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a casual dinner, or just craving a filling meal after a long day, this recipe offers a convenient yet indulgent option. The best part? It all cooks in a single pan, making clean-up as easy as the cooking itself!

This dish is perfect for busy nights when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The chicken remains moist and flavorful while the rice absorbs all the savory goodness of the sauce. It’s a comforting and filling meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your hunger. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, you’ll be able to whip up a dish that’s both simple and sophisticated. Let’s dive in and discover why this one-pan recipe will quickly become your new go-to dinner option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Minimal Clean-Up

Cooking everything in one pan means you won’t be left with a pile of dishes. The convenience is unbeatable!

2. Creamy and Flavorful

The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and creamy sauce that coats both the chicken and the rice.

3. Tender Chicken

The chicken breasts stay juicy and tender, infusing the rice with flavor while cooking together.

4. Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in less than 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

5. Comforting and Satisfying

The hearty rice, creamy sauce, and savory chicken create a filling dish that’s both comforting and delicious.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Long-grain white rice
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Small onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the dish a spicy kick.
• Different Cheese: Swap out Parmesan for other cheeses like Asiago or Romano for a slightly different flavor.
• Chicken Thighs: If you prefer chicken thighs, use them in place of breasts for a slightly juicier cut of meat.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them in the pan for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same pan, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté them in the remaining oil for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Rice and Broth

Add the rice to the skillet and stir it into the onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir well, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Add Cream and Parmesan

Once the broth is simmering, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy.

Step 5: Return the Chicken

Place the seared chicken breasts back into the pan, nestling them into the rice. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let everything cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the dish is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure there’s enough space in the skillet for the rice to cook evenly.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan works best for a smooth, creamy sauce. Pre-grated cheese can often be too dry.
• Check the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a richer sauce, you can add a little extra cream or cheese.
• Use a Lid: Make sure to cover the skillet while cooking the rice to keep the moisture in and ensure the rice cooks evenly.

How to Serve

This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a complete meal on its own, but it can also be paired with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables for added freshness. A slice of crusty bread is a great accompaniment to soak up the creamy sauce. For an extra indulgent touch, serve with a glass of white wine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze it before adding the cream. Freeze the chicken and rice mixture separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. When ready to cook, thaw and reheat, then add the cream and Parmesan for the final step.

Reheating

To reheat, place the leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess. You can also reheat in the microwave, covered, for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio, as brown rice takes longer to cook. Use about 2 ½ cups of chicken broth and allow an extra 15-20 minutes for cooking.

2. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, half-and-half will work as a lighter alternative, but it will result in a slightly less creamy sauce.

3. What can I use if I don’t have chicken broth?

You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or even water, but the flavor won’t be as rich.

4. Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs?

Yes, chicken thighs will work great in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook than breasts.

5. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like peas, spinach, or mushrooms to the dish. Add them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.

6. What’s the best way to season the chicken?

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning for more flavor.

7. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Pre-grated Parmesan can be used, but freshly grated Parmesan gives a creamier and smoother texture.

8. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.

9. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe if you have a large enough pan. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

10. Can I make this ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the rice and chicken ahead of time, then add the cream and Parmesan just before serving.

Conclusion

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings together creamy Parmesan goodness, tender chicken, and fluffy rice in one pan. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and packed with flavor that everyone will love. With minimal clean-up and minimal prep time, this recipe is as practical as it is delicious. Try it today and enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a household favorite!

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