One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

One-pan dishes are lifesavers for busy families and those who love quick, hearty meals. This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice recipe delivers on flavor and convenience. It combines tender, juicy chicken, creamy Parmesan-infused rice, and a medley of simple seasonings for a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, this recipe will surely become a staple in your kitchen.

If you love creamy, cheesy dishes but don’t want to spend hours cooking or cleaning, One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the answer. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful. Cooking everything in one pan allows the chicken to infuse the rice with its savory juices, creating a rich, cohesive meal.

Perfect for a family dinner or even meal prep, this dish requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. With pantry staples like rice, chicken, and Parmesan, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

In this article, we’ll guide you through how to make this one-pan wonder, share useful cooking tips, and answer common questions about the recipe.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious one-pan meal:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season and Sear the Chicken
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
   In the same pan, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of the dish by infusing the oil with the aromatics.
3. Add the Rice
   Stir the rice into the pan, ensuring it gets coated with the flavorful oil and onions. This step helps toast the rice slightly, adding depth to its flavor.
4. Pour in the Liquids
   Add the chicken broth and heavy cream to the pan. Stir well to combine. Let the mixture come to a simmer, then return the seared chicken to the pan.
5. Cook Everything Together
   Cover the pan with a lid and lower the heat to medium-low. Let the rice cook and absorb the liquid, about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and ensure the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
6. Stir in the Parmesan Cheese
   Once the rice is tender and creamy, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve
   Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of this dish!

Additional Tips

• Rice Type: Use long-grain white rice for best results. Avoid instant rice, as it may become mushy in this recipe.
• Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides a richer flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add spinach, peas, or mushrooms to the dish for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the texture.

FAQs About One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
   Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts as brown rice takes longer to cook. Add an extra 1/2 cup of broth and increase the cooking time by about 15-20 minutes.
2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
   You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Absolutely! Prepare the dish and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, as long as your chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are gluten-free, this dish is naturally gluten-free.
5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
   Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They may require slightly longer cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.
6. How do I prevent the rice from sticking?
   Stir the dish occasionally while cooking, and ensure the heat is not too high. Using a non-stick pan can also help.

Nutritional Information

• Serving size: 1 portion
• Calories: 480
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Nutritional values are approximate and depend on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together the creaminess of Parmesan cheese and the hearty goodness of chicken and rice. It’s the perfect one-pan meal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With its simple preparation and rich flavors, this dish will quickly become a household favorite.

Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy!