If you’re craving a comforting yet elegant dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine juicy, golden chicken breasts nestled in a luscious, velvety sauce infused with garlic, Italian herbs, and the nutty goodness of freshly grated Parmesan, all cooked in one pan with tender, fluffy rice. It’s a harmonious blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that come together effortlessly to make weeknight cooking feel like a celebration. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves simple dishes packed with incredible taste and texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses straightforward but essential ingredients that each play a specific role, ensuring every bite is flavorful, creamy, and satisfying. From the aromatic garlic that wakes up your senses, to the rich Parmesan that ties everything together, these ingredients create a balance of taste, texture, and color that’s hard to beat.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs): Choose plump, evenly sized breasts for consistent cooking and juicy meat.
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a fragrant, savory kick that’s key to the dish’s flavor profile.
- 1 cup long-grain rice: Long-grain rice ensures fluffy texture that absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Provides a savory base that enhances the rice and keeps the dish moist without too much salt.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Delivers the signature creamy texture that makes this dish irresistible.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the sauce, offering a rich, nutty flavor and beautiful creaminess.
- 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings warmth and depth to the dish, complementing the chicken and rice perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the chicken and waking up the overall flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing the chicken to a golden brown while adding a subtle fruity note.
How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Sear each side for about 5 minutes or until beautifully golden brown. This step not only locks in juices but creates a wonderful crust that adds texture and flavor to the final dish.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base with Garlic and Rice
Once the chicken is perfectly seared, add the minced garlic and long-grain rice to the skillet. Stir everything for about 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the rice starts to toast slightly. This subtle toasting boosts the rice’s nutty flavor and sets the stage for the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Simmer the Rice in Broth and Italian Seasoning
Pour in the chicken broth along with the dried Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the pan. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed most of the liquid. This simmering step ensures the rice cooks evenly and infuses with the savory broth and herbs.
Step 4: Stir in the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Once the rice is tender and most of the liquid is gone, stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue mixing until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and coats the rice and chicken beautifully. The cheese melts into the cream, creating the signature luscious texture that makes this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe so indulgent.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Immediately
The dish is best enjoyed fresh from the stove while the sauce is silky and warm. Scoop generous portions onto plates, making sure to get a balance of chicken, rice, and sauce for every bite. Add extra Parmesan on top if you’re feeling extra cheesy!
How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like chopped fresh parsley or basil bring a pop of green and a fresh contrast to the creamy richness. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of good quality olive oil can also elevate the dish, making it look as delightful as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with crisp, lightly dressed greens or a bright vegetable side like roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach provides a refreshing balance. A tangy tomato salad also complements the creamy, cheesy flavors wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe in shallow bowls topped with toasted pine nuts or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a subtle zing. You could even add sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for added depth and color, turning this cozy dinner into something truly special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it down completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally, to prevent the cream sauce from separating. Adding a splash of broth or cream during reheating helps maintain that perfect creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add even more tenderness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs can take a bit longer to cook through.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative and use a vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast to keep that cheesy flavor.
What type of rice works best for this recipe?
Long-grain white rice is ideal because it absorbs the broth well and remains fluffy. Avoid quick-cooking or instant rice varieties as they won’t hold up to the simmering process correctly.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat it for guests?
Definitely! It reheats beautifully. Just keep the sauce creamy by adding a touch of extra cream or broth when warming it back up.
How do I know when the rice is perfectly cooked?
The rice should be tender and have absorbed almost all the broth, leaving a creamy consistency in the pan. If it’s still hard, just cover and cook for a few more minutes while checking regularly.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe enough for anyone who loves quick, comforting meals without compromising on flavor or elegance. It turns simple ingredients into something truly special with minimal fuss, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. Go ahead and try it—you’re going to love the creamy, cheesy goodness packed into every delicious bite!
Print
One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice is a comforting, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection alongside creamy Parmesan-infused rice. Made with simple ingredients and cooked entirely in one skillet, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious, hearty meal with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Rice and Broth
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
Cream Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the hot skillet. Sauté the chicken until golden brown on each side, about 5 minutes per side, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and has a nice crust.
- Add Garlic and Rice: Once the chicken is browned, add the minced garlic and long-grain rice directly to the skillet. Stir for about 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the rice is lightly toasted.
- Simmer with Broth and Seasoning: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning over the mixture. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed most of the liquid and is tender.
- Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: Remove the lid, then stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until the sauce is creamy and well combined with the rice and chicken, coating the ingredients evenly.
- Serve and Garnish: Once creamy and heated through, serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and richness.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich.
- For extra flavor, garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
- Ensure not to overcook the rice; check it after 15 minutes to avoid mushiness.
- If you prefer, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
