One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Looking for a comforting, one-pot meal that’s both easy to make and full of flavor? This Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice recipe is a perfect choice! It’s hearty, creamy, and has that irresistible cheesy goodness everyone loves. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to be a hit.
This Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice is more than just a meal; it’s comfort in a bowl. It pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread on the side. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us—we’d love to see your take on this delicious dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup for maximum flavor!
- Family-Friendly: Creamy and cheesy—great for kids and adults alike.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
Why Your Family Will Love It
This dish is the perfect balance of comfort and nourishment. The creamy sauce makes it indulgent, while the lean chicken and rice provide a wholesome base. Plus, it’s easy to adapt for picky eaters—just leave the veggies on the side for those who prefer a simpler plate.
Tips for Success
- Rice Texture: If the rice is too dry, add a splash of broth or cream while cooking.
- Make It Lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative.
- Add a Crunch: Top with toasted breadcrumbs for an added layer of texture.
Creamy One-Pan Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice uncooked
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: ½ cup frozen peas spinach, or mushrooms
- Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil chopped
- Extra Parmesan for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside (don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked yet; it will finish later).
- Cook the Rice:In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.Stir in the uncooked rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning.Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine and Finish:Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture.Cover and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/75°C) and the rice is tender.Stir in the Parmesan cheese and optional veggies. Cook for 2-3 minutes to let everything blend beautifully.
- Serve:Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan.Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice is versatile enough to be a weeknight go-to yet elegant enough for weekend entertaining. Serve it as-is for a quick dinner, or pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a more elevated experience.
Make It Your Own
Cooking is all about personalizing recipes to fit your preferences. Here are a few ways you can make this dish uniquely yours:
- Swap the Protein: Don’t have chicken on hand? Try turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a twist.
- Go Whole Grain: Substitute the white rice with brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients. (Adjust the cooking time as needed.)
- Amp Up the Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and customizable options, this Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice recipe is bound to become a regular in your household. Make it tonight and watch how quickly it disappears from the table!
