One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe

There's something magical about a one-pan meal that combines rich, creamy flavors with minimal cleanup. One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the epitome of comfort food, with tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a luscious parmesan-infused sauce that’s sure to satisfy.

I first discovered this recipe on a busy weeknight when the thought of washing multiple pots and pans felt like too much. Since then, it's become a go-to meal for its ease, flavor, and how much my family loves it. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your weekly rotation!

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

Get ready to fall head over heels for this easy, crowd-pleasing dinner. Here’s why this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household:

• Quick and Convenient: This entire recipe comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
• Rich, Comforting Flavors: The creamy parmesan sauce ties everything together beautifully, creating a dish that's both indulgent and satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will adore the tender chicken and creamy rice. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Versatile Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like rice, chicken, and parmesan, this recipe is adaptable to whatever you have on hand.

Whether you're looking for an easy weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to deliver. Now, let’s talk about what you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, each one plays an essential role in building layers of flavor.

• Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Thighs tend to stay juicier during cooking, but breasts work beautifully if that’s what you have.
• Rice: Regular long-grain white rice is ideal. It absorbs the sauce perfectly without becoming too mushy. Avoid instant rice as it cooks too quickly and won’t develop the same creamy texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan cheese is key for the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded varieties often have additives that can affect how they melt.
• Chicken Broth: This provides depth and richness to the dish. You can substitute with vegetable broth if needed.
• Heavy Cream: This adds the signature creaminess to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, though the sauce will be less rich.
• Garlic and Onion: These aromatics are sautéed to create a flavorful base. Don't skip them—they’re small ingredients with big impact!

For equipment, you’ll need a large, deep skillet with a lid. A sturdy, nonstick or stainless-steel pan works best to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

How to Make This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Making this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is as straightforward as it gets. Let’s walk through it step by step.

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for added flavor. Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and sauté diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. This step adds a savory depth to the dish.
3. Cook the Rice: Stir in the uncooked rice, allowing it to toast slightly for 1-2 minutes. This enhances its flavor and helps it absorb the liquid evenly.
4. Add the Broth and Cream: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then return the chicken to the pan. Cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
5. Simmer to Perfection: Let everything cook undisturbed for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has thickened into a creamy sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Add Parmesan and Serve: Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle in the freshly grated parmesan cheese and stir gently to incorporate. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra parmesan.

This dish is ready in about 40 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for weeknights when time is of the essence.

Storage Options

This dish is just as good the next day, making it perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigerate: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce's creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, making it easy to adapt to your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Add Vegetables: Stir in spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrients.
• Swap the Protein: Replace chicken with shrimp or turkey for a different twist. Vegetarian? Add mushrooms or chickpeas instead.
• Spice it Up: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a little heat.
• Use Different Cheeses: Parmesan is classic, but you can experiment with gouda or mozzarella for a new flavor profile.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Ensure your broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.

The possibilities are endless—feel free to make this dish your own!

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the combination of creamy, cheesy flavors with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice—all made in one pan. Whether you're cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a recipe you'll come back to time and time again.

So grab your skillet, and let’s get cooking—you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste this delicious!

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