One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate weeknight comfort meal, look no further than One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice. This irresistible skillet supper blends juicy chicken, tender rice, and a decadent Parmesan cream sauce into a single, crowd-pleasing dish. It’s hearty, flavorful, and needs just one pan, so cleanup is a breeze. Whether you’re craving something cozy or need an easy fix for busy evenings, this recipe delivers on all fronts!

Ingredients You’ll Need

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is delightfully straightforward, yet every element plays a key role in creating comforting flavors and creamy textures. Each item adds its own magic to the finished dish, so don’t skip a thing!

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Opt for boneless, skinless pieces for a tender, juicy bite; thighs add extra richness, but breasts are perfectly lean and soak up flavor too!
• Olive Oil: Just a tablespoon adds beautiful color and depth—look for good quality oil for the best results.
• Onion: Dice it small for sweetness and a savory base that melds perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• Garlic: Three cloves pack a punch, infusing the rice and chicken with mouthwatering aroma and zing.
• Long Grain White Rice: Uncooked rice absorbs all the flavors as it cooks; avoid instant rice so your grains stay fluffy, not mushy.
• Chicken Broth: The foundation for flavor; choose low-sodium if you prefer to control the saltiness.
• Heavy Cream: Transformation alert! This ingredient gives the dish its signature creamy, dreamy quality.
• Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated for an unmatched melt and irresistible tanginess!
• Italian Seasoning: A sprinkle provides those herby, savory notes that pull everything together.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that make all the flavors sing—season to taste as you cook.
• Chopped Parsley: An optional but lovely fresh garnish for a pop of color and vibrancy just before serving.

How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Start by heating your olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season them generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and let them sizzle for 4 to 5 minutes. You want each piece beautifully browned and mostly cooked through—it’s the foundation of flavor for the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Once the chicken has its golden color, push it to one side of the pan. Toss in the diced onion and let it cook for a couple of minutes until it turns soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic for just 30 seconds. This brief sauté gets all those fragrant, savory notes going without burning the garlic.

Step 3: Add the Rice

Mix the uncooked long grain white rice right into the pan, coating it in the wonderful base of chicken, mirepoix, and oil. This quick step toasts the rice ever so slightly, locking in even more flavor and ensuring each grain will be tender yet distinct in the final dish.

Step 4: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Now it’s time to pour in the chicken broth. Give everything a good stir, bring the liquid to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 18 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for tender rice and almost all the broth absorbed—don’t rush this part, as it’s where the flavors really meld.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Parmesan

With the rice just right, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes thick and velvety. The Parmesan will melt seamlessly, and the chicken finishes cooking right in this creamy, savory goodness. Remove from the heat to avoid overcooking.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice warm and creamy, straight from the skillet. The colors, aroma, and richness will have everyone gathering around the table in a flash.

How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Garnishes

No need to get fancy—the beauty of this dish is in its simplicity. But a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or extra grated Parmesan can provide a fresh, inviting look. If you want a zingy lift, add a little lemon zest over the top before serving; it brightens the rich flavors with just the right twist.

Side Dishes

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is hearty enough to shine on its own, but feel free to add sides if you’re feeding a crowd. A crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette or some simply roasted veggies like broccoli or green beans are perfect partners, complementing the creamy richness with crunch and color.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining or just want to switch things up, spoon the creamy chicken and rice into individual bowls for personal servings, or fill large, shallow plates for that restaurant-style effect. For a fancier touch, serve alongside roasted asparagus or with artisan bread for soaking up the sauce. You can also stir in a handful of baby spinach or peas during the last minute of cooking for a pop of green and an extra nutrition boost.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice stores beautifully! Just scoop any extra into an airtight container and place it in the fridge. It will keep well for up to three days, making it a delicious option for lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

This dish is also freezer friendly. Let it cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to two months. When freezing, be aware that creamy sauces can sometimes separate upon thawing, but a good stir when reheating usually brings everything back together nicely.

Reheating

To reheat, place your portion in a skillet over low heat with a splash of extra cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Gently warm it, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warmth and creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice or another grain?

You absolutely can use brown rice, but be mindful that it needs a longer cooking time and more liquid to become tender. Quinoa is a good substitute too, though it cooks more quickly, so adjust the simmering time accordingly for the best results.

What’s the best way to make this dish lighter?

For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk (though the sauce will be a bit less rich). You can also use chicken breast instead of thighs and add extra vegetables like spinach or peas to bulk up the nutrition without extra calories.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking or becoming mushy?

The key is to use long grain rice and keep the pan covered tightly during simmering. Avoid stirring too often, as this can break down the rice and lead to a mushy texture. If you notice sticking, make sure your heat isn’t too high and your liquid hasn’t cooked off too quickly.

Can I make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice dairy-free?

Certainly! Swap the heavy cream for an unsweetened dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or oat milk, and look for a dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese. These changes will deliver a creamy result while catering to dietary preferences.

What’s the best way to meal prep with this recipe?

This dish is amazing for meal prep: simply cook as directed, cool completely, and portion into containers for grab-and-go lunches or dinners. Add a little splash of broth or cream before reheating to keep the texture velvety and fresh.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, convenience, and downright deliciousness, One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is calling your name! I can’t recommend it enough—give it a try and watch it become a new family favorite in no time.

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