Print

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Print Recipe

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a comforting, simple, and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with creamy Parmesan-infused rice cooked together in a single skillet. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe balances rich cheesy textures with wholesome ingredients and fresh herbs for a satisfying, easy-to-clean-up meal everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 large chicken breasts, seasoned with salt and pepper
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups chicken broth (preferably gluten-free)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Variations

  • 1 cup fresh spinach, peas, or mushrooms (for vegetable boost)
  • 1 cup cauliflower rice (for low-carb version)
  • Red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños (for a spicy kick)
  • Basil or rosemary (for herb swap)
  • Coconut milk and nutritional yeast (for dairy-free option)

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Sear the Chicken: Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown but not fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside to lock in juiciness and flavor.
  2. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This creates a fragrant base that enhances the overall dish without overpowering it.
  3. Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the uncooked rice, coating it well with the garlic and oil mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a simmer, allowing the rice to start absorbing liquid and begin cooking.
  4. Return Chicken and Simmer: Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet on top of the rice. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
  5. Stir in Cream and Parmesan: Once the rice is cooked and the liquid mostly absorbed, stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix carefully until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and luscious, coating both chicken and rice.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor, then serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Notes

  • Use fresh Parmesan by grating your own for a more potent and fresh flavor than pre-grated options.
  • Don’t rush the simmer; allow rice to cook slowly for tender grains and optimal absorption of flavors.
  • Monitor liquid levels and add a splash of broth if the pan looks dry before rice is fully tender.
  • Let the chicken rest briefly after cooking to retain juiciness and tenderness.
  • Use a high-quality non-stick or well-seasoned pan to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan, creamy parmesan chicken, chicken and rice, easy dinner, weeknight meal, gluten-free, comfort food

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/one-pan-creamy-parmesan-chicken-rice/