Description
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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 610 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 32 g