One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the ultimate comfort food, packed with flavors that come together effortlessly in one skillet. The tender chicken breasts are cooked to perfection, combined with creamy, cheesy rice that soaks up all the delicious juices. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a hearty and satisfying meal, this recipe is quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pan Meal

Cooking everything in one pan means less mess and easier cleanup. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare and cook everything in one skillet.

2. Creamy and Rich Flavor

The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese combine to create a luscious, creamy sauce that elevates the chicken and rice to a whole new level of comfort.

3. Quick and Easy

This dish comes together in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner without compromising on flavor.

4. Simple Ingredients

You don’t need fancy ingredients to make this dish. With just a few staple ingredients like chicken, rice, and Parmesan, you can create a delicious, satisfying meal.

5. Customizable

Feel free to add in vegetables, like spinach, peas, or mushrooms, to make the dish even more filling and nutritious.

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

• Add Vegetables: Stir in vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms to the pan while cooking the chicken and rice.
• Use Chicken Thighs: For a juicier and more flavorful alternative, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat in the creamy sauce.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

1. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

1. Add the rice to the skillet and stir it to coat it in the onion and garlic mixture.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let the rice cook for about 15-18 minutes, or until it is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 4: Add the Parmesan Cheese

1. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, making sure it melts into the sauce and creates a creamy texture.
2. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them on top of the rice. Cover the skillet and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to warm through and the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Once everything is cooked and the chicken is tender, garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
2. Serve the creamy Parmesan chicken and rice hot, and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken while it’s cooking to avoid drying it out. If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Use Long-Grain Rice: Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe, as it absorbs the liquid nicely without becoming mushy.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier dish, feel free to add a bit more heavy cream or Parmesan cheese.

How to Serve

• Pair with a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a perfect side for this dish.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread for a more indulgent meal and to soak up any leftover creamy sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave the dish or warm it on the stove with a bit of added liquid (broth or cream) to keep it creamy.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.

2. Can I substitute the heavy cream with something else?

If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, though it may not be as creamy.

3. Can I make this dish without the Parmesan cheese?

While the Parmesan adds a lot of flavor, you can omit it if needed, or substitute it with another cheese like mozzarella.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice and chicken in advance and store them separately. Reheat before serving.

5. Can I make this with chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work great in this recipe and add more flavor and juiciness.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is an easy, flavorful, and comforting meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste. With creamy rice, tender chicken, and rich Parmesan, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this one-pan meal for your next dinner!

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