One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe

Introduction

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a simple, yet delicious, dish that combines tender chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked rice in a single skillet. This easy, one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting and satisfying dish without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. With its rich and creamy sauce and savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.

The combination of juicy, seasoned chicken and creamy Parmesan rice creates a dish that is both flavorful and filling. The fact that it all cooks together in one pan makes cleanup a breeze, making it an ideal choice for those who want a no-fuss meal without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a meal for yourself, this recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for a variety of occasions.

In this guide, you’ll find step-by-step instructions to make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, tips for success, and suggestions for variations to make this dish your own.

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

• Easy Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pan, this dish minimizes the amount of cleanup required, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks.
• Rich and Creamy: The Parmesan cheese adds a luxurious richness to the rice and chicken, making this dish feel indulgent without being overly heavy.
• Comfort Food: The creamy texture, paired with perfectly seasoned chicken and rice, offers the ultimate comfort food experience.
• One-Pan Meal: The beauty of this recipe lies in the fact that it all cooks together in one pan, saving you time and effort while delivering a delicious meal.
• Customizable: While the recipe is delicious as written, it’s easy to customize with different vegetables, proteins, or seasonings to suit your tastes.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4-6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 400-450 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 18-22g
• Carbohydrates: 35-40g
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 2-4g

Ingredients

For the One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Special Equipment

While this recipe doesn’t require specialized tools, a few pieces of equipment will help ensure that your meal is prepared efficiently and evenly:

1. Large Skillet: A large, deep skillet or sauté pan is key for cooking the chicken and rice in one pan. It should have a lid for simmering the rice and keeping the moisture in.
2. Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of the ingredients, especially the rice, broth, and cream.
3. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir the rice and sauce without scratching the surface of your skillet.
4. Tongs: A pair of tongs is helpful for turning the chicken breasts as they cook to ensure they brown evenly on both sides.
5. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is important for slicing and seasoning the chicken breasts evenly.
6. Cutting Board: For preparing the chicken and any other ingredients such as garlic and parsley.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then rub each breast with olive oil. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried Italian seasoning. Ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed on both sides of the chicken.

2. Brown the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Add the rice to the skillet and stir it around to coat it in the butter and garlic mixture. Cook the rice for about 2 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly in the pan. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and allow it to cook for about 1-2 minutes before returning the chicken to the skillet.

5. Return the Chicken to the Skillet

Place the browned chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the rice. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the dish simmer for 20-25 minutes. This will allow the rice to absorb the liquid and cook through, while the chicken stays moist and tender.

6. Add the Parmesan Cheese

After the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed, remove the lid and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the chicken and rice. Stir the cheese into the rice to create a creamy, cheesy sauce. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or cream to achieve your desired consistency.

7. Serve and Garnish

Once the Parmesan is fully incorporated and the dish is creamy, remove the skillet from the heat. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve hot, and enjoy the creamy, savory goodness of your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice.

Tips for Perfect One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

• Use Bone-In Chicken: While boneless chicken breasts work perfectly, bone-in chicken thighs or breasts can add extra flavor and moisture to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if using bone-in cuts.
• Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with the seasonings. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best creamy texture and flavor, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated versions. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and adds a richer taste.
• Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk, though the texture may be a little less rich. You can also use reduced-fat Parmesan cheese.
• Double the Recipe: This recipe is easy to scale up for larger crowds. Simply double the ingredients and use a larger skillet or two separate pans if necessary.

Variations of One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

• One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice with Vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables to the skillet for added nutrition and flavor. Vegetables like spinach, broccoli, bell peppers, or peas can be stirred into the rice for a well-rounded meal.
• One-Pan Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken & Rice: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the creamy sauce for a bright, citrusy twist. Lemon pairs perfectly with the Parmesan and enhances the flavor of the chicken and rice.
• One-Pan Spicy Parmesan Chicken & Rice: Add a bit of heat to the dish by stirring in some red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of hot sauce when preparing the creamy sauce. This will give the dish a nice spicy kick that complements the creamy texture.
• One-Pan Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken & Rice: For even more richness, add extra butter to the sauce and replace the olive oil with garlic butter. This will create a more indulgent, buttery flavor that’s perfect for special occasions.

Storage and Shelf Life

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored for later. Allow the dish to cool completely before storing. Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or reheat the entire dish in a skillet over low heat. If the rice has become too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.

For longer storage, you can freeze this dish. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then heat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Pair this dish with complementary sides to create a complete meal:

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is a perfect accompaniment to this creamy chicken and rice dish. It’s great for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
• Green Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and rice. Consider using arugula, spinach, or mixed greens.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts will add some crunch and freshness, balancing out the creaminess of the main dish.
• Steamed Green Beans: Steamed green beans are a simple and healthy side that pairs well with the richness of the Parmesan chicken and rice.

Print

Conclusion

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy chicken, creamy Parmesan rice, and rich flavors in one easy-to-make dish. With minimal prep time and just one pan to clean, this recipe is a weeknight lifesaver that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just because you want a comforting meal, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. The creamy, cheesy rice and tender chicken create a balanced, satisfying meal that will quickly become a favorite in your household.