Name: One Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Ingredients: Chicken breasts (4 medium-sized: Boneless and skinless, they cook quickly and evenly. Pat them dry for a better sear.); Olive oil (2 tablespoons: Perfect for browning the chicken and enhancing flavors.); Garlic cloves (4, finely minced: Fresh garlic makes all the difference. Avoid garlic powder here!); Chicken broth (3 cups: It helps cook the rice and infuses the dish with extra flavor.); Rice (1 ½ cups, uncooked: Use long-grain white rice for a tender, fluffy result. Short grains may turn mushy.); Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated: Always grate your Parmesan fresh for the best flavor and creaminess.); Heavy cream (½ cup: This gives the dish its signature creamy texture.); Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon: A blend of herbs enhances the Italian vibe of this dish. Customize by adding thyme or rosemary.); Salt and pepper (to taste: Adjust seasoning in stages to ensure balanced flavors.); Parsley (for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness right before serving.)

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Sometimes, I stumble upon a recipe so simple and delicious that I want to shout about it, and this one-pan creamy Parmesan chicken and rice might just be perfection. I made it last week, and not only was dinner ready in under 30 minutes, but I only had one pan to wash afterward!

The balance of creamy, cheesy rice paired with tender, perfectly cooked chicken is comfort on a plate. Trust me, it’s one of those dinners where everyone, including the picky eaters, asks for seconds.

One Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe

Credit: eatwell101

Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice

To make this flavorful dish, gather these ingredients, each of which plays an important role in the recipe:

Chicken breasts (4 medium-sized): Boneless and skinless, they cook quickly and evenly. Pat them dry for a better sear.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Perfect for browning the chicken and enhancing flavors.
Garlic cloves (4, finely minced): Fresh garlic makes all the difference. Avoid garlic powder here!
Chicken broth (3 cups): It helps cook the rice and infuses the dish with extra flavor.
Rice (1 ½ cups, uncooked): Use long-grain white rice for a tender, fluffy result. Short grains may turn mushy.
Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated): Always grate your Parmesan fresh for the best flavor and creaminess.
Heavy cream (½ cup): This gives the dish its signature creamy texture.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs enhances the Italian vibe of this dish. Customize by adding thyme or rosemary.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Adjust seasoning in stages to ensure balanced flavors.
Parsley (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness right before serving.

Note: This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Adjust quantities if needed for larger groups or leftovers.

Variations

What makes this recipe even better is how adaptable it is! Here are some fun variations:

Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Low-Carb Version: Replace rice with cauliflower rice. Just reduce the cooking time since cauliflower rice cooks quickly.
Protein Substitute: Try boneless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative, or swap chicken for shrimp or turkey.
Veggie Add-In: Spinach, broccoli florets, or even diced zucchini can be added for more texture and nutrition.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for some kick.

For a different take on flavors, you might enjoy this sweet jalapeño pineapple boneless wings recipe.

Cooking Time

Here’s a quick breakdown of the time you’ll need:

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You’ll Need

Make sure you have these kitchen essentials to whip up this easy recipe:

Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook everything in one pan and make clean-up a breeze.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring ingredients evenly and scraping up any flavorful bits.
Sharp knife: To mince garlic and slice chicken with precision.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice?

This recipe is super simple, and your kitchen will smell incredible as you cook. Here’s how to make it, step by step:

Sear the Chicken

First, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Once the oil is shimmering, place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in flavors and creates a delicious crust. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Sauté the Garlic

Using the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant, while stirring continuously to prevent burning.

Cook the Rice

Pour in the chicken broth and deglaze the pan, scraping off any browned bits. Stir in the rice, remaining Italian seasoning, and some fresh black pepper. Cover the pan and bring the liquid to a gentle simmer. Cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed.

Incorporate Cream and Parmesan

Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. This is where the dish becomes irresistibly creamy! Mix everything gently to ensure the cheese melts evenly, creating a luscious sauce.

Add the Chicken Back

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some sauce over them to help them soak in the creamy flavors. Cover the pan again and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through.

Final Touches

Once done, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for garnish. Serve warm and enjoy!

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

Here are a few tricks I’ve learned while making this dish that might help you perfect it:

Don’t rush browning the chicken; a good sear adds so much flavor.
Use fresh, high-quality Parmesan cheese for a creamier and nuttier taste.
Avoid lifting the lid while cooking the rice. Trapped steam cooks it evenly.
Add a splash of lemon juice at the end if you want a hint of brightness.
If you find the dish too thick, loosen it up with a little extra chicken broth.

How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice?

Plate the chicken breasts over a generous scoop of creamy rice. For an elegant touch, garnish with extra Parmesan shavings and parsley. Pair it with a side salad, steamed veggies, or a crusty piece of bread to complete the meal. Want to get fancy? Serve it in the skillet at the table so everyone can help themselves! For more hearty and comforting dishes, check out this pesto chicken pasta recipe.

Nutritional Information

This comforting recipe offers a well-rounded meal. Approximate values per serving:

Calories: 450
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 15g

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or easy leftovers.

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze portions for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Wondering if this recipe is worth a try? Here are just a few reasons it might become a weekly dinner staple:

Quick and Easy: One pan, 30 minutes, and minimal mess.
Crowd-Pleaser: Hearty, cheesy goodness that even kids will devour.
Customizable: Suitable for various diets with just a few tweaks.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal prepping or freezing.
Comforting Flavors: Creamy rice and tender chicken make the ultimate comfort food.

There you have it! A hearty, healthy, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s simple and versatile. Whether you’re making it for your family, entertaining guests, or cooking for one, this recipe fits the bill every time. You can also enjoy similar chicken recipes for more inspiration.

Ash Tyrrell