Description
One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. This easy one-pan meal features tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a luscious parmesan cream sauce, all made in a single skillet for minimal cleanup. With a blend of garlic, herbs, and parmesan cheese, every bite is filled with warmth and depth of flavor. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal for the whole family, this dish is a guaranteed hit.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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.
Instructions
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- 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:
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same pan, add butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the Rice: Stir in the rice and toast it for about 1 minute to enhance its flavor.
- Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken broth and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
- Return the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken back into the pan with the rice. Stir to combine.
- 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:
- Stir in Cream & Parmesan: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add Veggies (Optional): If using peas or spinach, stir them in and cook for 2-3 more minutes.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra parmesan cheese before serving.
- Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy a creamy, comforting one-pan meal!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 400-500 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 35g