One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the kind of comforting, easy meal that can make any weeknight dinner feel special. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with creamy, flavorful Parmesan rice—all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup. The rich, savory sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese perfectly coats the rice, which absorbs all the delicious flavors while the chicken stays moist and flavorful. The addition of garlic and onions gives the dish a burst of aromatic depth, making it a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen. Plus, cooking everything in one pan means fewer dishes to wash, making this recipe as convenient as it is delicious. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend gathering, this dish is a winner that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple and Easy

With just a few basic ingredients, this recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for busy nights. Everything is cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

2. Creamy and Comforting

The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, creamy sauce that coats the rice and chicken, providing comfort in every bite.

3. Versatile

You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms, or by adjusting the seasonings to your taste.

4. Minimal Prep Time

The prep time is short, and the cooking process allows you to set it and forget it. The chicken stays juicy and tender while the rice absorbs all the flavors.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish stores well, so it’s great for meal prepping ahead of time. Just heat it up for an easy, delicious meal during the week.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in some spinach, peas, or even sun-dried tomatoes to add extra color and flavor.
• Use Brown Rice: For a healthier option, substitute the white rice with brown rice, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the rice for a little heat or sprinkle some cayenne pepper on the chicken breasts.
• Different Cheese: If you prefer, you can use Asiago, Romano, or mozzarella cheese in place of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally.

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, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Parmesan

Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Return the Chicken

Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, making sure they are partially submerged in the sauce. Cover the pan with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure the chicken breasts have enough space to sear properly and brown evenly.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor, grate your own Parmesan cheese rather than using pre-grated cheese.
• Check the Chicken: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Adjust Rice Cooking Time: If using brown rice, you may need to extend the cooking time slightly and add a little more liquid.

How to Serve

This creamy Parmesan chicken and rice dish pairs perfectly with a side of steamed vegetables, a light salad, or even some garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce. It’s filling on its own but can be served with anything that complements its rich, creamy flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight, freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

Reheating

When reheating, add a little chicken broth or cream to bring back the creamy consistency and prevent the rice from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to cook them for a little longer to ensure they reach 165°F internally.

2. Can I use a different type of rice?

While this recipe works best with long-grain white rice, you can substitute with jasmine or basmati rice. Brown rice will also work but requires a longer cooking time.

3. Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but it may result in a less creamy sauce.

4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms directly into the pan while cooking the rice for extra flavor and nutrition.

5. Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes, you can use other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even mozzarella for a different flavor.

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

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer. The juices should also run clear.

7. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Reheat the dish gently before serving.

8. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?

Yes, but bone-in chicken will require a longer cooking time. You may need to adjust the timing to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

9. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese.

10. How do I prevent the rice from being too dry?

If the rice absorbs all the liquid before it’s fully cooked, add a bit more chicken broth during the cooking process to ensure it stays moist and tender.

Conclusion

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the epitome of a hearty, satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and full of flavor. With tender chicken, creamy rice, and a savory Parmesan sauce, it’s the perfect dish for busy nights or casual dinners. The best part? Cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one pan. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a meal for meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try, and enjoy a creamy, delicious meal with minimal effort!

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