Effortless One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe

Crafting a delectable one-pan creamy parmesan chicken & rice dish promises pure culinary comfort without complicated kitchen gymnastics.

Weeknight dinners demand simple yet satisfying solutions that minimize cleanup and maximize flavor.

creamy textures blend seamlessly with tender chicken pieces and fluffy rice grains.

Perfectly seasoned ingredients dance together in a single skillet, creating magic that feels effortless.

Kitchen novices and experienced cooks alike will appreciate how quickly this meal comes together.

Expect rich parmesan notes to complement the succulent chicken, making every bite a delightful experience.

You’ll want to savor each spoonful and share this recipe with everyone you know.

One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Highlights

• Simplify Cooking: Dive into a one-pan wonder that minimizes dishes and cleanup, making mealtime a breeze for busy home cooks.
• Boost Flavor Profile: Enjoy a rich, creamy combination of tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and melted Parmesan cheese that delivers restaurant-quality taste in your own kitchen.
• Quick Weeknight Meal: Whip up a delicious dinner that comes together in under an hour, perfect for satisfying hungry families with minimal effort.
• Versatile Comfort Food: Adapt this recipe easily by swapping ingredients or adding vegetables, making it a flexible go-to meal for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients for One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice

• Chicken Breasts: A lean and tender protein that provides the main substance of the dish.

• Italian Seasoning, Paprika, Salt, Pepper: A blend of herbs and spices that enhance the chicken's flavor and add depth to the overall dish.
• Onion, Garlic: Aromatic ingredients that create a flavorful base and add complexity to the recipe.

• Rice: A classic grain that serves as the hearty foundation of this one-pan meal.
• Chicken Broth: A savory liquid that helps cook the rice and infuses additional flavor into the dish.
• Heavy Cream: A rich ingredient that creates a creamy and luxurious sauce.
• Olive Oil: A cooking fat used to sear the chicken and prevent sticking.

• Parmesan Cheese: A sharp and salty cheese that melts into a creamy sauce and adds richness.
• Fresh Parsley: A bright herb used as a garnish to add color and a fresh flavor accent.

How to Prepare One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Sear Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Season chicken with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cook chicken until golden brown on both sides, creating a delicious crust.

Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Saute Aromatics

Drop chopped onions and minced garlic into the same skillet.

Stir and cook until they release their fragrant aroma and become soft and translucent.

Step 3: Build the Base

• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce heat to low, creating a creamy foundation for your dish.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Return the seared chicken to the skillet.

Cover and let everything cook together for 20-25 minutes.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

The rice will become tender, and the chicken will cook through completely.

Step 5: Add Cheesy Finish

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese into the skillet.

Stir until the cheese melts completely, creating a rich and creamy sauce that coats the chicken and rice.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Chop fresh parsley and scatter over the top of the dish.

Serve hot, directly from the skillet for a rustic and inviting presentation.

Helpful Tips for Parmesan Chicken and Rice

• Pat chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure a golden-brown, crispy exterior that locks in juicy flavors.
• Adjust liquid ratios slightly if you prefer a thicker or more saucy consistency by reducing or adding more chicken broth.
• Grate Parmesan fresh for better melting and richer taste compared to pre-packaged shredded cheese.
• Long-grain white rice works best, but you can substitute with brown rice by increasing cooking time and liquid amount.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth and reduce added salt to control overall sodium content for a healthier meal.

Flavor Variations for Parmesan Chicken and Rice

• Low-Carb Cauliflower Rice Swap: Replace traditional rice with riced cauliflower for a lower-carb, keto-friendly version that maintains the creamy texture and flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Coconut Cream Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to create a lactose-free alternative that's equally rich and satisfying.
• Vegetarian Protein Remix: Swap chicken for firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives, keeping the same seasoning and cooking method for a meat-free protein option.
• Mediterranean Herb Transformation: Add sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and swap Italian seasoning for dried oregano and thyme to give the dish a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Parmesan Chicken and Rice

• Dinner Party Delight: Serve this creamy chicken and rice masterpiece alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal that'll impress guests. Comfort Food Companion: Pair with roasted garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce and add extra texture to your plate. Veggie Boost: Sprinkle some steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus around the chicken to increase nutritional value and add a pop of color. Wine Pairing Magic: Complement the rich, creamy dish with a chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to elevate the dining experience.

Storage Advice for Parmesan Chicken and Rice

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator, maintaining flavor and texture.
• Transfer cooled chicken and rice to freezer-safe containers. Freeze up to 3 months. Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn and preserve taste.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Add splash of chicken broth to prevent dryness. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Warm until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Warm in skillet over medium-low heat. Add small amount of chicken broth or water. Stir gently to prevent sticking and maintain creamy consistency. Heat until thoroughly warm and steaming.

FAQs

• Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! This one-pan dish is super easy to make with simple steps and minimal ingredients. Even novice cooks can create a delicious meal without complex techniques.

• Can I use different types of rice?

Yes, you can substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice or basmati. Just adjust cooking time slightly since different rice varieties might require slightly different liquid ratios and cooking times.

• How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and perfectly cooked through.

One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe

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4.8 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty one-pan creamy parmesan chicken & rice delivers comfort and convenience in a single skillet. Quick preparation meets restaurant-quality flavor, promising a delicious meal that satisfies hunger and delights senses.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 large chicken breasts

Starches:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth

Dairy and Seasoning:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 medium onion
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt
• Pepper
• Fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Warm a large skillet over medium heat with olive oil, creating a sizzling base for the chicken.
2. Coat chicken pieces with a blend of Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper, ensuring even coverage.
3. Sear chicken until achieving a golden-brown exterior on both sides, developing rich flavor and color.
4. Transfer chicken to a temporary plate, preserving the caramelized essence in the skillet.
5. Introduce diced onions and minced garlic to the same skillet, allowing them to release their aromatic oils.
6. Add uncooked rice, creating a foundation for the one-pan meal.
7. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine and create a luxurious liquid base.
8. Bring the mixture to a rapid boil, then immediately reduce heat to low.
9. Carefully nestle seared chicken back into the skillet, ensuring each piece is partially submerged.
10. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes at low temperature, occasionally stirring to prevent rice from sticking.
11. Verify rice tenderness and chicken’s internal temperature is fully cooked.
12. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the dish, gently folding until it melts into a creamy, cohesive sauce.
13. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish and serve immediately.

Notes

• Make the dish lighter by substituting heavy cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat milk for a healthier version.
• Enhance flavor complexity by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the sautéing stage for deeper aromatic notes.
• Ensure even cooking by using a meat thermometer to check chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature, preventing dryness while guaranteeing food safety.
• Transform into a gluten-free meal by using cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice, maintaining the dish’s creamy texture and rich taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 495 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 520 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 27 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 115 mg