One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful, and comforting dinner that requires minimal cleanup, this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the answer. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with creamy rice and a rich Parmesan sauce, all cooked in one pan for ultimate convenience. With just a few pantry staples and a bit of time, you’ll have a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The chicken and rice cook together in one pan, allowing the flavors to meld and create a deliciously creamy dish. The Parmesan cheese adds a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the sauce. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick meal or just someone who loves easy cooking, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the epitome of convenience and flavor. It’s a complete meal in one pan, meaning there’s less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. The chicken is tender and full of flavor, while the rice soaks up the creamy sauce, creating a comforting, rich side dish. Plus, with the added touch of Parmesan, this dish feels indulgent without being overly complicated to prepare. It’s quick, satisfying, and sure to please everyone at the table.

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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

While this recipe is delicious as written, here are some variations you can try to make it your own:

Add Vegetables

You can incorporate some vegetables into the dish, such as spinach, peas, or mushrooms. These vegetables will add color and nutrition to the meal.

Use Different Cheese

If you’re not a fan of Parmesan or want a different flavor, try using Asiago, Romano, or even cheddar cheese for a different twist on the creamy sauce.

Swap Chicken for Another Protein

If you prefer, you can swap the chicken for boneless pork chops or even tofu for a vegetarian version of the dish.

Make it Lighter

To lighten up the recipe, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream, and opt for a reduced-fat cheese.

Add Spices

For an extra kick, try adding some red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, or garlic powder to the sauce for added depth of flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Then, chop the onion and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

Add the rice to the skillet and stir it to coat it in the oil and onion mixture. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.

Step 5: Add the Chicken Back to the Pan

Return the cooked chicken breasts to the pan, placing them on top of the rice. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 6: Add the Parmesan

Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and rice. Stir gently to combine, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce and make it even creamier.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy this creamy, comforting dish with your favorite side!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When browning the chicken, make sure there’s enough space in the skillet so that the chicken gets a nice golden-brown crust. If needed, cook the chicken in batches.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will melt better and give the sauce a smoother texture compared to pre-grated cheese.
• Test the Rice: If the rice isn’t fully cooked after the simmering time, you can add a little extra chicken broth or water and continue to cook until the rice is tender.
• Check Chicken Temperature: Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

How to Serve

This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with:

• Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a lemon vinaigrette is a great way to balance the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or asparagus pair beautifully with the creamy chicken and rice.
• Garlic Bread: For an extra indulgent touch, serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a little extra liquid if needed.

Reheating

To reheat the dish, add a little chicken broth or cream to keep it from drying out. Warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time. You may need to add extra liquid as well.

2. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it before serving. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

3. Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or milk for a lighter version of the dish, but the texture and richness may differ slightly.

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

Yes, chicken thighs would work well in this recipe. They will be slightly more tender and flavorful than chicken breasts.

5. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes, vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms can be added to the rice while it simmers for added flavor and nutrition.

6. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.

7. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to make this recipe quicker. Simply add it to the pan during the last 10 minutes of cooking to heat it through.

8. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like Asiago or mozzarella, but Parmesan gives the dish its signature flavor.

9. Can I use a different cooking method?

While this recipe is designed for stovetop cooking, it can be adapted for baking. If baking, transfer everything to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes.

10. Can I make this dish without the rice?

Yes, you can make the chicken with the creamy Parmesan sauce alone, serving it over pasta or mashed potatoes if desired.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With just one pan to clean, you’ll enjoy a creamy, cheesy dish that’s full of flavor and comfort. The combination of tender chicken, creamy rice, and Parmesan makes this dish a family favorite, and the simplicity of the recipe ensures that you can make it on even the busiest days. Try it out today and see how quickly it becomes a staple in your home!

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