One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup, this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the answer! This comforting dish features tender, juicy chicken breasts simmered with creamy Parmesan rice, all cooked together in one pan for ultimate convenience. The creamy texture of the rice paired with the savory Parmesan flavor makes every bite rich and indulgent, while the chicken provides a hearty, protein-packed element to the meal.

Not only does this dish come together effortlessly in a single pan, but it’s also quick and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this creamy, cheesy chicken and rice dish will become a favorite in your recipe rotation. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility—serve it with a side of vegetables or enjoy it just as is for a complete meal. It’s simple, delicious, and sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pan Wonder

This dish requires just one pan, making cleanup a breeze after a delicious meal.

2. Creamy and Flavorful

The creamy Parmesan sauce coats the rice and chicken, creating a rich, comforting flavor that’s perfect for any occasion.

3. Quick and Easy

With only a few ingredients and a short cooking time, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

4. Tender Chicken

The chicken breasts stay juicy and tender as they cook in the creamy broth, making each bite moist and flavorful.

5. Customizable

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms to make this dish even more flavorful and nutritious.

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

1. Add Vegetables: Stir in some spinach, peas, or mushrooms to add extra nutrients and flavor to the dish.
2. Use Brown Rice: For a healthier version, substitute the long-grain white rice with brown rice. Just note that brown rice will take a bit longer to cook.
3. Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish some heat.
4. Lemon Parmesan: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of lemon zest to brighten up the flavors.
5. Swap the Chicken: Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier, more flavorful alternative.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large, deep skillet or pan.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

Add the rice to the pan, stirring to coat the rice with the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 5: Return the Chicken to the Pan

Place the seared chicken breasts back into the pan, nestling them into the rice mixture. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.

Step 6: Simmer and Cook

Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let everything simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice has absorbed the liquid. Stir occasionally to ensure the rice cooks evenly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is creamy and tender, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a more robust flavor to the dish compared to pre-minced or jarred garlic.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure the chicken breasts are spaced out in the pan so that they sear properly and don’t steam.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier texture, add a bit more heavy cream or Parmesan cheese.
• Stir the Rice: Stir the rice occasionally while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

How to Serve

This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette also pairs nicely to balance the richness of the dish. For extra flavor, top the casserole with more Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy rice may absorb more liquid as it sits, so you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to bring back its creamy consistency.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1-2 months. Make sure the dish is completely cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the rice, and warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. They may require a slightly longer cooking time, but they will provide extra flavor and moisture.

2. Can I make this recipe with brown rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice. Keep in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook, so you may need to increase the cooking time and add more liquid.

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

Yes, half-and-half can be used as a lighter substitute for heavy cream, but the texture and richness may be slightly different.

4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

5. How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe to serve more people. Just make sure to use a larger pan and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

7. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add vegetables like peas, spinach, or mushrooms to make the dish more nutritious and flavorful.

8. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

You can use pre-cooked chicken, but you will need to reduce the cooking time for the rice since the chicken is already cooked.

9. Can I make this in the oven?

This recipe is designed for stovetop cooking, but you can try it in the oven by covering the pan with foil and baking at 375°F for 30-40 minutes, checking for doneness.

10. How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Conclusion

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the perfect dish for busy nights when you want something flavorful, comforting, and easy to clean up. The creamy rice paired with tender, juicy chicken and savory Parmesan makes for a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is a guaranteed winner. With its rich flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and time again!

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