One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the perfect weeknight dinner, combining the rich flavors of Parmesan cheese, tender chicken, and creamy rice. This dish is not only easy to make but also ensures minimal cleanup, as everything cooks in a single pan. With the comforting richness of cream and the savory taste of Parmesan, this meal is a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a staple in your recipe repertoire. The chicken breasts turn out perfectly juicy and tender, while the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors from the broth, cream, and cheese. The addition of garlic and onion elevates the overall taste, giving the dish a lovely depth of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this dish guarantees to impress with its simple yet sophisticated taste.

The best part about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a delicious, hearty meal on the table in under an hour. The creamy texture of the rice, combined with the savory, golden-brown chicken, makes for a filling meal that satisfies the whole family. If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful dinner that doesn’t require multiple pots and pans, this one-pan recipe is exactly what you need.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Minimal Cleanup

Since everything is cooked in one pan, you’ll save time on cleanup, making this recipe perfect for busy nights.

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2. Creamy and Flavorful

The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan creates a luscious, creamy sauce that infuses both the chicken and rice with rich flavor.

3. Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in less than an hour with simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.

4. Perfectly Cooked Chicken

The chicken breasts are cooked to juicy perfection, staying tender and flavorful in the creamy sauce.

5. Customizable

You can easily modify this recipe to suit your preferences by adding extra vegetables or using a different type of cheese.

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
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Variations

• Vegetable Add-ins: You can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
• Cheese Alternatives: Swap out the Parmesan for other cheeses like mozzarella or Asiago for a different flavor profile.
• Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a slightly richer taste.
• Herbs and Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or fresh thyme and rosemary for a fragrant, herby touch.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

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

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

Step 3: Add Rice and Liquid

Stir in the rice, then add the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb some of the liquid.

Step 4: Add Parmesan Cheese

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce.

Step 5: Return Chicken to the Pan

Place the chicken breasts back into the pan, nestling them into the rice mixture. Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken and rice are cooked, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Even Cooking: If your chicken breasts are thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
• Check the Rice: If the rice is too dry, add a little extra chicken broth or cream and cook for a few more minutes until the rice is tender.
• Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Make it Extra Creamy: For an even creamier dish, stir in a little more heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese.

How to Serve

This creamy Parmesan chicken and rice is a complete meal in itself, but you can serve it alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. For extra flavor, pair it with garlic bread or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little bit of chicken broth or cream if needed to restore the creamy texture.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. After cooking, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the dish on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed. Stir frequently until heated through.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to increase the cooking time and liquid by about 10-15 minutes.

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

Yes, half-and-half will work in place of heavy cream, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.

3. Can I make this recipe with frozen chicken breasts?

It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, you may need to increase the cooking time.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use mozzarella, Asiago, or even a blend of cheeses depending on your preference.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even a diced jalapeño to add heat.

6. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, vegetables such as peas, spinach, or mushrooms can be added to the rice for extra flavor and nutrition.

7. Can I cook this recipe in the oven instead of on the stovetop?

While this recipe is designed for the stovetop, you can finish it in the oven by baking it at 375°F for 20 minutes after browning the chicken and adding the rice mixture.

8. Can I substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth?

Yes, vegetable broth will work as a substitute for chicken broth, especially for a lighter or vegetarian version.

9. What if my rice is undercooked after the chicken is done?

If the rice is still a bit crunchy, simply add more liquid (broth or cream) and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.

10. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice and chicken ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it when ready to serve.

Conclusion

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a simple yet delicious dish that brings together savory chicken, creamy rice, and the irresistible flavor of Parmesan. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight, offering a hassle-free cooking experience with minimal cleanup. With rich, comforting flavors and a satisfying texture, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether served as a standalone meal or with a side dish, this recipe delivers on both taste and convenience.

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