One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Enjoy a quick and flavorful dinner with One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delightful combination of tender chicken and creamy Parmesan rice, all cooked in one skillet. Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor make this meal great for family dinners or gatherings.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken and Rice
• For Garnish
• How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
• Step 3: Toast the Rice
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Cook Chicken and Rice
• Step 6: Finish with Parmesan
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Family-Style Serving
• Individual Plates
• With Extra Sauce
• Accompanied by Salad
• With Crusty Bread
• Wine Pairing
• How to Perfect One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Best Side Dishes for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Reheating One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use brown rice instead?
• How can I make this recipe healthier?
• What other proteins can I use in this dish?
• Can I add vegetables?
• What should I serve with One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less mess and easier cleanup after dinner.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic garlic creates a creamy, savory sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: This recipe uses simple pantry staples, making it easy to whip up whenever you’re short on time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice comes out perfectly, having the right tools is essential. Here are some must-have items:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: This is key for cooking everything evenly while allowing for easy stirring.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for gently mixing ingredients without scratching your skillet.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure your rice cooks perfectly every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

PIN THIS!

How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and brown on both sides until golden. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add the rice to the skillet. Toast it for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to coat it with oil and aromatics.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine everything well. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Cook Chicken and Rice

Return the browned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cover tightly with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted into a creamy sauce. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if necessary.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving immediately. Enjoy your delicious One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice!

How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Serving One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is simple and satisfying. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways to elevate your dining experience and accommodate different preferences.

Family-Style Serving

• Serve the chicken and rice directly from the skillet, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm, communal dining atmosphere.

Individual Plates

• Plate generous portions of chicken and creamy rice on individual dishes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

With Extra Sauce

• Drizzle additional creamy sauce over each serving for those who love extra flavor. This enhances the richness of the dish.

Accompanied by Salad

• Pair with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette. The freshness contrasts nicely with the creamy chicken and rice.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside warm, crusty bread for dipping. This adds a delightful texture and makes the meal more filling.

Wine Pairing

• Consider serving with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. It complements the flavors of the dish beautifully.

How to Perfect One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

To achieve the best results with One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance flavors significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your stove’s heat settings, you may need to adjust cooking time slightly for perfectly cooked rice.
• Add Vegetables: Include peas or spinach in the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Check Seasoning: Always taste before serving; you might need additional salt or pepper to enhance flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps flavors meld together.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Pairing side dishes with One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrients and a nice crunch to your plate.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender pairs well with the creaminess of the main dish.
3. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements any creamy meal, perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing adds a refreshing contrast to rich flavors.
5. Grilled Zucchini: Grilling zucchini brings out its natural sweetness, making it a great side option.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a burst of flavor that balances well with savory chicken and rice.
7. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a tangy bite that lightens up the meal.
8. Quinoa Salad: A healthy alternative that can be mixed with fresh vegetables and herbs for added texture and taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland results. Always season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for juicy, tender meat.
• Not Covering the Skillet: Failing to cover the skillet while simmering can result in unevenly cooked rice. Keep it covered tightly for even cooking.
• Neglecting to Stir: Leaving the rice unattended can lead to sticking. Stir occasionally throughout cooking to prevent this issue.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality cheese or broth can affect the dish’s overall taste. Opt for good quality Parmesan cheese and chicken broth for the best flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before sealing the container.

Freezing One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed, stirring frequently until warmed.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice.

Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can substitute heavy cream with light cream or milk and use less cheese if desired.

What other proteins can I use in this dish?

Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or even shrimp for a different flavor profile.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Consider adding peas, spinach, or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.

What should I serve with One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice?

This dish is great on its own but pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

Final Thoughts

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it comforting and satisfying. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Give it a try tonight!

---