If you are craving a comforting yet effortlessly delicious meal, the One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish brings together tender chicken, rich Parmesan cheese, and perfectly cooked rice in a luscious creamy sauce that hugs every grain. What makes it truly special is how all the flavors meld beautifully in just one pan, giving you a satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re feeding the family or craving a cozy solo dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this dish is wonderfully straightforward because each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and creating that signature creamy texture. From the aromatic garlic to the sharp Parmesan, these essentials come together to make a dish that is both comforting and exciting.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and absorb the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions and chicken, adding a subtle fruity richness.
- 1 small onion, diced: Provides a sweet, savory base as it softens and caramelizes.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a fragrant and flavorful punch to the dish.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: Absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly without becoming mushy.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds depth and umami to balance the creaminess.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky texture that makes this meal so indulgent.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings an irresistible sharpness and boosts the savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a subtle earthy herbal flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color in the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the components to life with seasoning.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A bright, fresh garnish that makes the presentation sing.
How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Start by warming olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook until it’s translucent and tender, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and give it a good stir, letting the aroma fill your kitchen as it cooks for another minute. This foundational step builds a flavorful base that will deeply enrich the entire dish.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Next, add the chicken pieces into the skillet. Season them generously with salt and pepper to bring out their natural flavor. Cook the chicken until it’s lightly browned on all sides, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step not only locks in juiciness but also adds a beautiful golden crust that makes every bite satisfying.
Step 3: Add Rice to the Pan
Once the chicken is browned, stir in the uncooked long-grain white rice. Mix it well with the chicken and onion so each grain starts soaking up those wonderful flavors. This simple move sets the stage for that creamy, satisfying texture we’re aiming for.
Step 4: Pour in Liquids and Herbs
Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, giving everything a good stir to combine. Sprinkle in the dried thyme and parsley. These herbs provide a subtle floral and earthy note that balances the richness beautifully. This is when the magic begins, as the rice will soon absorb all these flavors.
Step 5: Simmer Until Rice Is Tender
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes so the rice can cook through and absorb most of the liquid. This slow simmer creates that perfect creamy consistency that makes the One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe so irresistible.
Step 6: Stir in Parmesan Cheese
After removing the pan from heat, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and incorporated. The cheese enriches the sauce with its nutty, tangy flavor and binds everything together in a creamy embrace. This is where the dish truly comes alive.
Step 7: Adjust Seasoning
Give everything a taste and fine-tune the seasoning if you feel it needs a bit more salt or pepper. This final check ensures each bite is perfectly balanced and bursting with flavor.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh burst of color and an extra layer of mild herbal brightness. Then dig in and enjoy a dish that feels like total comfort from the first bite.
How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of fresh parsley provides a vibrant green contrast against the creamy, golden rice, making the dish feel fresh and inviting. If you want to get a little fancy, a small drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick and depth.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables brings a refreshing balance. Try serving with garlic roasted asparagus or a bright lemony arugula salad for added texture and brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style presentation, serve the One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe straight from the skillet to the table—it’s both rustic and comforting. Alternatively, plating individual portions with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a twist of freshly ground black pepper can make the meal feel restaurant-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce may thicken as it cools but gently reheating will bring back its luscious texture.
Freezing
This dish freezes surprisingly well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to leave some room for expansion and avoid freezing the garnish to maintain freshness.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to revive that creamy consistency you love.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more juiciness and richness to the dish. You’ll want to cook them until nicely browned and tender before adding the rice to ensure they’re perfectly done.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative and use a vegan Parmesan-style cheese. The flavor and creaminess will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
You can, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook and needs more liquid. Adjust cooking time to around 40-45 minutes and add extra broth as necessary to ensure it cooks through.
How spicy is this dish?
The One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe is mild and comforting by nature, but you can add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or your favorite hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can chop the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and keep them refrigerated. Even the dry ingredients can be measured in advance. Just assemble and cook when you’re ready for that fresh, creamy indulgence.
Final Thoughts
There’s something heartwarming about a meal that comes together easily and tastes like it took hours to perfect. The One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe is exactly that kind of dish—simple, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying. I truly hope you try it soon and make it a regular go-to in your kitchen. You’ll be glad you did!
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One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice recipe combines tender chicken pieces with creamy Parmesan-infused rice cooked in a single skillet. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make meal that blends aromatic herbs, garlic, and a luscious sauce for a delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Aromatics
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Rice and Liquids
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Seasonings and Finishings
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add Rice: Stir in the uncooked long-grain white rice, ensuring it is evenly combined with the chicken and sautéed onions.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add dried thyme and dried parsley, stirring to combine thoroughly.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish with Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the creamy mixture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- Use bone-in chicken if preferred, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though it will be less rich.
- Make sure to keep the heat low during simmering to prevent the rice from sticking or burning.
- Fresh herbs can replace dried thyme and parsley for a brighter flavor if available.
- This dish is best served immediately but can be reheated gently with a splash of broth or cream.
