One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the ultimate comfort food that’s as simple as it is delicious. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with creamy, savory rice, all cooked together in one pan for an easy and flavorful meal. The creamy Parmesan sauce adds richness, while the garlic and onion provide depth and warmth. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this dish comes together with minimal effort and leaves you with just one pan to clean. With the chicken perfectly cooked and the rice infused with all the creamy goodness, it’s a meal your entire family will love. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or bringing it to a gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s versatile and can easily be adjusted to fit your personal taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a meal that’s guaranteed to satisfy. The combination of juicy, boneless chicken breasts and creamy, flavorful rice makes for a filling and comforting dish. What’s great about this recipe is that it’s cooked all in one pan, saving you time on both preparation and cleanup. The garlic, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream create a rich, creamy sauce that coats every bite of rice, making this dish incredibly flavorful. Additionally, the chicken is cooked perfectly, staying tender and juicy while absorbing all the flavors of the sauce. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s ideal for busy days when you want something comforting without a lot of effort.

Ingredients

For the Recipe:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Long-grain white rice
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Small onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

• Chicken Thighs: You can replace the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a slightly different texture and flavor. Chicken thighs are also a bit more forgiving and won’t dry out as easily.
• Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a rich flavor.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers to the rice for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add some hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy version of this dish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat it in the oil, onion, and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Parmesan

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Return the Chicken to the Pan

Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, on top of the rice. Spoon some of the creamy sauce over the chicken. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes to allow the chicken to heat through and absorb the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is heated through and the sauce is creamy, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken breasts will result in a juicier and more flavorful dish. If using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep the chicken moist, avoid overcooking it. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier dish, you can add more heavy cream or Parmesan cheese.
• Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing to retain its juices.
• Use a Lid: Always cover the skillet while the rice is cooking to ensure it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors.

How to Serve

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables to add some freshness and balance. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette works perfectly to cut through the richness of the creamy rice. This dish is also great with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to keep it moist.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze this dish, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the oven.

Reheating

To reheat, add a little extra chicken broth or heavy cream to the dish and heat it on low until warmed through. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can use other types of rice, like jasmine or basmati. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of rice you choose.

2. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

You can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them before cooking for the best results. If cooking from frozen, you’ll need to increase the cooking time.

3. Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a slightly richer flavor. Make sure to cook them through until they reach 165°F internally.

4. Can I use grated mozzarella cheese instead of Parmesan?

While Parmesan is the best option for the dish’s signature flavor, you can use mozzarella in a pinch. It will provide a different flavor profile but still work well with the creamy sauce.

5. Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version of the sauce.

6. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, spinach, or mushrooms to the skillet along with the onion and garlic for added nutrition and flavor.

7. How can I make the rice fluffier?

To make the rice fluffier, avoid stirring it too much once you add the broth. Also, make sure to cover the pan while it simmers to trap the steam.

8. Can I cook this in the oven instead of the stovetop?

Yes, you can transfer the dish to an oven-safe pan and bake it at 350°F for 25-30 minutes after preparing the rice and sauce. Just ensure the chicken is cooked through before serving.

9. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.

10. Can I skip the onions in this recipe?

Yes, you can skip the onions if you prefer a milder flavor or if you have an onion allergy. The recipe will still be delicious without them.

Conclusion

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or a special meal for the family. With tender chicken, creamy rice, and the rich flavors of Parmesan, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe. The best part? It’s made in just one pan, making both cooking and cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a quick and easy meal, this recipe delivers. Try it today and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite!

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