There’s a certain magic in meals that combine simplicity, flavor, and comfort in one. One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is precisely that kind of dish. It brings together tender, golden chicken pieces and fluffy, flavorful rice, all enveloped in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Better yet, the entire dish comes together in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze. This recipe is not just about saving time—it’s about delivering incredible flavor with minimal effort.
A Dish That Tells a Story
The first time I made this dish was on a chilly autumn evening. The air was crisp, the leaves were turning, and I was craving something warm and satisfying. As the onions sizzled in butter and the aroma of garlic filled the kitchen, I knew this recipe would be a keeper. Over time, it became a favorite not only for its comforting taste but also for the way it brought everyone to the table—family, friends, or even just myself after a long day.
One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is versatile enough for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. Whether you’re hosting a dinner for loved ones or just need a quick, delicious meal after a long day, this dish has you covered.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Convenience: No juggling multiple pots and pans here—this recipe keeps everything contained in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
- Rich, Creamy Flavor: The blend of heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan creates a velvety sauce that pairs beautifully with chicken and rice.
- Fast and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the fuss.
- Customizable: Want to add veggies or tweak the spices? This recipe welcomes your creativity.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1.5 pounds of chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced (approximately 3 teaspoons)
- 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 cup of long-grain white rice
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the finely diced onion. Cook the onion for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns translucent and releases its sweetness. This is the foundation of flavor for the dish, so take your time to let the onions caramelize slightly.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken cubes to the skillet. Sprinkle them with Italian seasoning, salt, and ground black pepper. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all sides are golden brown. This step not only adds flavor but also locks in the juices, ensuring tender chicken.
Step 3: Infuse with Garlic
Once the chicken is browned, stir in the minced garlic. Let it cook for just one minute, releasing its fragrant aroma. Be careful not to let the garlic burn—it should turn golden but not dark brown.
Step 4: Add Rice and Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the long-grain white rice. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the rice is evenly distributed. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer for 17-20 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the broth, becoming tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Once the rice is fully cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed, remove the lid. Stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. As you mix, you’ll notice the sauce becoming creamy and luxurious, coating the chicken and rice perfectly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
For a finishing touch, sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish. The vibrant green not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- Cut Evenly: Ensure the chicken is cut into evenly sized cubes so that it cooks uniformly. Uneven pieces can result in some being overcooked while others remain raw.
- Rice Matters: Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe, as it holds its structure and absorbs the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Avoid using short-grain or instant rice, as these can drastically change the texture.
- Fresh Parmesan for the Win: Using freshly grated Parmesan makes a noticeable difference. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Gentle Simmer: Once the rice is added, resist the urge to increase the heat. A gentle simmer ensures the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the delicious flavors.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pan
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Notes
- Add Veggies: Consider stirring in spinach, peas, or chopped mushrooms along with the cream and Parmesan for a nutrient boost.
- Herb Swaps: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be used in place of Italian seasoning for a more distinct flavor.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to restore its creamy texture.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 15g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the broth and simmering time accordingly to ensure the rice is fully cooked.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk can work in a pinch, but the sauce may be less creamy. For a dairy-free option, try unsweetened coconut milk.
Can I freeze this dish?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Reheat on the stovetop with a bit of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this dish, here are a few others you’ll love:
Conclusion
This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is more than just a recipe—it’s a reminder of the power of simple, comforting meals. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just getting started in the kitchen, this dish is a foolproof way to create something delicious. Serve it with a side salad, some crusty bread, or enjoy it as-is. No matter how you plate it, this meal is guaranteed to bring warmth to your table and joy to your heart.
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One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice: A Comort Food Classicf
Description
There’s a certain magic in meals that combine simplicity, flavor, and comfort in one. One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is precisely that kind of dish. It brings together tender, golden chicken pieces and fluffy, flavorful rice, all enveloped in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Better yet, the entire dish comes together in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze. This recipe is not just about saving time—it’s about delivering incredible flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds of chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced (approximately 3 teaspoons)
- 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 cup of long-grain white rice
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the finely diced onion. Cook the onion for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns translucent and releases its sweetness. This is the foundation of flavor for the dish, so take your time to let the onions caramelize slightly.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken cubes to the skillet. Sprinkle them with Italian seasoning, salt, and ground black pepper. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all sides are golden brown. This step not only adds flavor but also locks in the juices, ensuring tender chicken.
Step 3: Infuse with Garlic
Once the chicken is browned, stir in the minced garlic. Let it cook for just one minute, releasing its fragrant aroma. Be careful not to let the garlic burn—it should turn golden but not dark brown.
Step 4: Add Rice and Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the long-grain white rice. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the rice is evenly distributed. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer for 17-20 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the broth, becoming tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Once the rice is fully cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed, remove the lid. Stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. As you mix, you’ll notice the sauce becoming creamy and luxurious, coating the chicken and rice perfectly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
For a finishing touch, sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish. The vibrant green not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Add Veggies: Consider stirring in spinach, peas, or chopped mushrooms along with the cream and Parmesan for a nutrient boost.
- Herb Swaps: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be used in place of Italian seasoning for a more distinct flavor.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to restore its creamy texture.