Name: One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 small yellow onion (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked); 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup frozen peas (optional); Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

If you’re searching for a one-pot meal that combines simplicity with comfort, look no further than this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice recipe. This dish delivers tender chicken breasts infused with savory flavors while the rice is bathed in a creamy Parmesan sauce that will leave your taste buds singing. Perfect for a family dinner or a simple weeknight meal, this recipe takes just one pan and about 40 minutes of your time, making it as delicious as it is easy to prepare.

Imagine juicy chicken, sautéed with spices and served alongside fluffy rice that absorbs a medley of flavors from onions, garlic, and chicken broth. The star of the show is undoubtedly the creamy sauce that envelopes every grain of rice. The Parmesan cheese not only enhances the richness of the dish but also adds a subtle earthy nuttiness that elevates this meal to restaurant-quality fare. Plus, with the inclusion of frozen peas, you add a pop of color and nutrition that makes each bite even better.

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

Convenience: Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, onion, and Parmesan creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
Family-Friendly: This dish pleases even picky eaters, making it a great choice for family dinners.
Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s perfect for weekdays.
Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe with your favorite vegetables or proteins.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin cooking, ensure your kitchen is equipped with the right tools for this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice recipe. A large skillet or sauté pan is best for this dish, as it needs to accommodate both the chicken and the rice comfortably. Have measuring spoons and cups on hand to measure out your ingredients accurately. On top of that, prepare your workspace by having all your ingredients prepped: diced onions, minced garlic, and seasoned chicken should be ready to go, which will help streamline the cooking process.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 small yellow onion (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet, cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown. This step not only locks in the juices but creates a beautiful crust on the chicken. After searing, set the chicken aside on a plate; we will incorporate it back later.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice Mixture

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, allowing them to become translucent and fragrant. Next, stir in the uncooked rice, ensuring it coats well with the oil and mixes with the onion and garlic. This step helps enhance the flavor of the rice; it will absorb all the delicious nuances during cooking. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir until everything is well combined, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Return Chicken to the Skillet

Once the rice mixture reaches a simmer, carefully place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet. Cover and cook for approximately 15-20 minutes over low heat, or until the rice is cooked through and has absorbed most of the liquid. If you’re adding frozen peas, stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking. This will allow them to heat through and retain that bright-green color.

Step 4: Finish with Parmesan

After the rice is tender and creamy, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into the mixture, enriching the sauce and binding everything together beautifully. Give it a gentle stir to ensure the cheese is well integrated throughout the chicken and rice. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

Variations

Protein: Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
Vegetables: Add a mix of bell peppers, spinach, or carrots for enhanced nutrition and color.
Spices: Experiment with adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or smoked paprika for added depth.

Cooking Notes

For extra creaminess, consider adding more heavy cream or cheese.
If you’d like more flavor, try marinating the chicken briefly in Italian dressing before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
Complement your meal with a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay, which enhances the richness of the dish.

Tips

Don’t skip the searing step—you want that extra flavor from the browned chicken!
You can prepare the rice ahead of time and simply add the chicken to reheat for a faster dinner.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 610 per serving
Protein: About 32g per serving
Sodium: Depending on broth used, around 600mg per serving

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and possibly the liquid, as brown rice generally takes longer to cook.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving again.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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

This dish pairs nicely with a side of crusty bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice recipe is not just easy to prepare, but also a deliciously fulfilling meal that your entire family will enjoy. The rich flavors of the creamy sauce, paired with tender chicken and flavorful rice, create an inviting dinner ambience that’s hard to resist. Whether you keep it as it is or spice it up with your favorite variations, this recipe is bound to be a hit in your household. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or any unique twists you’ve tried with this recipe in the comments below!