One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Introduction

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is your answer to a hearty, comforting meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor. This rich and creamy dish combines tender, juicy chicken with perfectly cooked rice, all enveloped in a luscious parmesan-infused sauce. With just one pan, you get a delicious, homemade meal that’s both satisfying and easy to clean up—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

The first time I made this dish, the kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of garlic, herbs, and melted parmesan, making everyone eager to grab a plate. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, offering warmth and comfort in every bite. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile! You can toss in some spinach for a pop of color, add mushrooms for an earthy depth, or even swap the chicken for shrimp to switch things up.

This one-pan wonder is as easy as it is delicious—just a handful of ingredients, a single skillet, and about 30 minutes are all you need to serve up a creamy, cheesy, flavor-packed dinner. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dish is sure to become a favorite!

Perfect for:

• Busy weeknight dinners
• Family meals
• One-pan meal lovers
• Comfort food cravings
• Meal prepping

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice will become a staple in your kitchen:

• One-Pan Simplicity: Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
• Creamy & Comforting: The rich parmesan cream sauce adds indulgence without being too heavy.
• Perfectly Cooked Rice: The rice absorbs all the delicious flavors while cooking with the chicken.
• Customizable & Versatile: Easily swap ingredients to fit dietary needs or preferences.
• Family-Friendly: A meal everyone will love, from kids to adults.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
• ½ cup frozen peas or spinach (optional, for added veggies)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken: Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy serving.
• Long-Grain Rice: Absorbs the flavors of the broth and cream, resulting in tender, fluffy rice.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a rich, nutty flavor to the creamy sauce.
• Garlic & Italian Seasoning: Enhance the dish with aromatic depth and a touch of Mediterranean flair.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a luscious, velvety texture that binds everything together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice:

Cook the Chicken:

1. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for 4-5 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Cook the Rice & Sauce:

3. Sauté the Garlic: In the same pan, add butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the Rice: Stir in the rice and toast it for about 1 minute to enhance its flavor.
5. Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken broth and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken back into the pan with the rice. Stir to combine.
7. Simmer: Cover and cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Finish with Cream & Cheese:

8. Stir in Cream & Parmesan: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.
9. Add Veggies (Optional): If using peas or spinach, stir them in and cook for 2-3 more minutes.
10. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.

Serve & Enjoy:

11. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra parmesan cheese before serving.
12. Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy a creamy, comforting one-pan meal!

How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a satisfying dish on its own, but you can enhance it with these serving ideas:

• With a Side of Roasted Vegetables – Serve alongside roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a balanced meal.
• Over a Bed of Spinach or Arugula – Add freshness and a slight peppery kick to complement the creamy dish.
• With a Side of Garlic Bread – Mop up the creamy sauce with warm, crispy garlic bread.
• Topped with Crispy Bacon Bits – Sprinkle crispy bacon pieces on top for extra crunch and flavor.
• With a Lemon Wedge – A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens up the dish and cuts through the richness.
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle chopped parsley, basil, or chives for a burst of freshness.
• Alongside a Simple Side Salad – A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness.
• With Extra Parmesan & Black Pepper – Enhance the flavors by adding freshly grated Parmesan and cracked black pepper before serving.
• Served in a Bread Bowl – Hollow out a crusty bread roll and serve the dish inside for a fun presentation.
• With a Drizzle of Truffle Oil – Elevate the dish with a light drizzle of truffle oil for a gourmet touch.

Additional Tips for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Here are some tips to ensure your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice turns out perfect every time:

• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well due to added anti-caking agents.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Since it will continue cooking with the rice, remove it from the pan once lightly golden.
• Let the Rice Absorb the Liquid: Don’t rush the simmering process; allow the rice to fully absorb the flavors.
• Use Heavy Cream for the Best Texture: Lighter alternatives like milk or half-and-half may result in a thinner sauce.
• Customize with Vegetables: Peas, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers make great add-ins.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat if desired.
• Check for Doneness: If the rice isn’t fully cooked but the liquid is absorbed, add a splash of broth and let it simmer longer.

Recipe Variations for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Here are 10 variations to try for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice:

• Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken & Rice: Increase the garlic and butter for a deeper, richer flavor.
• Mushroom Parmesan Chicken & Rice: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist.
• Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken & Rice: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach for a Mediterranean touch.
• Lemon Parmesan Chicken & Rice: Add fresh lemon zest and juice for a bright, tangy flavor.
• Cajun Parmesan Chicken & Rice: Use Cajun seasoning instead of Italian seasoning for a spicy kick.
• Broccoli Cheddar Chicken & Rice: Swap parmesan for cheddar and add steamed broccoli.
• Buffalo Parmesan Chicken & Rice: Stir in a bit of buffalo sauce for a spicy, tangy variation.
• Bacon Parmesan Chicken & Rice: Add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and crunch.
• Pesto Parmesan Chicken & Rice: Mix in a spoonful of pesto for a herby twist.
• Gluten-Free Parmesan Chicken & Rice: Use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Freezing and Storage for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

• Freezing: Let the dish cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy consistency.

Special Equipment for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan – A wide, deep pan works best.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring the ingredients evenly.
• Lid for the Pan – Helps the rice cook properly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Ensures accurate ingredient portions.

Frequently Asked Questions for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

1. Can I use brown rice? Yes, but it will require additional cooking time and more broth.
2. Can I substitute the heavy cream? You can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be thinner.
3. Can I make this dairy-free? Use dairy-free parmesan and substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk.
4. How do I prevent the rice from sticking? Stir occasionally and ensure enough liquid is in the pan.
5. Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, just add it in during the last few minutes of cooking.

Print

Conclusion

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the ultimate combination of comfort and convenience. With its rich, velvety parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Every bite is packed with indulgent flavor, making it the perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home.

Best of all, this recipe comes together in just one pan, saving you time on both cooking and cleanup. Whether you’re serving it to loved ones or enjoying a comforting meal for yourself, this creamy, savory dish is sure to satisfy.

I’d love to see your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice creations! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious results. Happy cooking!