One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of creamy chicken and rice wafting through your kitchen. This one-pan wonder is the perfect blend of juicy chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, and fluffy rice, all cooked together for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe during a hectic week when I needed something quick, easy, and satisfying. It’s since become a family favorite, gracing our dinner table on countless occasions. Let's dive into what makes this dish so irresistible.

Why You'll Love This One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe

Get ready to add a new weeknight staple to your recipe rotation. This One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the ultimate trifecta of flavor, convenience, and versatility.

First, it’s all about simplicity. With everything cooked in just one pan, you’ll save time on dishes without sacrificing flavor. It's a lifesaver for busy nights when no one wants to deal with a sink full of pots and pans.

Next, the flavor is unbeatable. The rich, creamy Parmesan sauce is infused into every bite of tender chicken and fluffy rice, creating a dish that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant.

Another reason to love this recipe? It’s endlessly adaptable. Whether you want to add veggies, swap out proteins, or make it gluten-free, the options are endless.

Finally, it's family-friendly. Picky eaters? No problem. This comforting dish is sure to please even the most selective palates.

Ready to get started? Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient has a purpose, working together to create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.

Chicken thighs or breasts are the protein of choice for this dish. Chicken thighs stay juicy and tender, but chicken breasts work beautifully if you prefer a leaner option. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Rice is the base of the dish, absorbing all the creamy sauce for a flavorful finish. Long-grain white rice works best here, but jasmine or basmati rice adds a subtle aromatic twist. Avoid instant rice, as it can become mushy in this preparation.

The Parmesan cheese is the star of the show, providing a salty, nutty richness. Use freshly grated Parmesan if you can—it melts more smoothly and packs a punch of flavor.

Chicken broth and heavy cream form the backbone of the creamy sauce. The broth adds depth, while the cream ensures a luxuriously rich consistency. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce won’t be as thick.

A touch of garlic and onion enhances the dish’s savory profile. These aromatics are sautéed to perfection, creating a flavor-packed base for the sauce.

Finally, a sprinkle of Italian seasoning and a hint of lemon zest brighten the dish, balancing the richness of the cream and cheese.

All you’ll need to bring this recipe to life is a large, deep skillet with a lid. Let’s move on to how to make it!

How To Make This One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe

Making this dish is as easy as it is delicious. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a comforting meal on the table in no time.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it warm up. Once shimmering, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then sauté the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir frequently until they’re soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This step infuses the pan with incredible flavor.

Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the uncooked rice and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Nestle the chicken back into the skillet, ensuring it’s partly submerged in the liquid.

Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let everything cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking. The rice should be tender, and the sauce creamy by the end of this step.

Once the rice is fully cooked, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir gently until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a velvety finish. Add a pinch of Italian seasoning and a dash of lemon zest for brightness.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. The entire process takes about 35 minutes, making this recipe perfect for weeknights.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? No problem. This dish stores well and tastes just as good the next day.

For refrigeration, transfer the cooled dish to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

If you’d like to freeze it, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating is simple. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible, so feel free to make it your own.

• Vegetable boost: Add some veggies for extra nutrition. Spinach, peas, or mushrooms work wonderfully. Stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
• Protein swap: Replace the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different twist.
• Cheese alternatives: While Parmesan is classic, you can experiment with Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a unique flavor.
• Rice alternatives: For a healthier option, try brown rice or quinoa. Just note that these may require a longer cooking time.
• Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and a plant-based Parmesan substitute for a dairy-free version.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative. This recipe is your canvas, so mix it up and make it perfect for your family!

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