One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe

There's nothing more comforting than the rich, creamy flavors of a homemade chicken and rice dish, especially when it all comes together in just one pan. This Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice recipe is a weeknight lifesaver—simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding the whole family.

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I discovered this recipe on a particularly busy day, and it quickly became a staple in our household. It's not just delicious; it's also a breeze to clean up afterward. Let’s dive in and see why this dish is about to become your new favorite!

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

Get ready to fall head over heels for this easy, satisfying meal. It’s a recipe that ticks all the boxes—quick, convenient, and utterly delicious.

First, the creamy sauce is absolutely irresistible. Made with Parmesan cheese and a touch of cream, it coats every grain of rice and piece of chicken, creating a dish that feels indulgent without being heavy.

This recipe is also a one-pan wonder, which means fewer dishes to wash at the end of the night. Who doesn’t love a little extra free time after dinner?

The ingredients are simple, affordable, and likely already in your pantry. No need for fancy shopping lists—just everyday staples that transform into something special.

Best of all, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your family’s preferences. Whether you swap in vegetables or tweak the seasoning, this dish can easily suit any palate.

So, grab your skillet and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient works in harmony to create a creamy, flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish, offering tender, juicy bites. If you prefer, chicken thighs can also be used for an extra boost of flavor.

Rice: Long-grain white rice works best here, as it cooks evenly and absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully. Avoid instant rice—it won't hold up well in this recipe.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is key. Its nutty, salty flavor takes the sauce to the next level. Pre-grated cheese can work in a pinch, but fresh is always better.

Chicken Broth: This provides a flavorful base for the rice to cook in. Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the dish.

Heavy Cream: Just a splash adds richness and a velvety texture to the sauce. If you’re watching your calories, half-and-half can be substituted, though the sauce won’t be as thick.

A large skillet with a tight-fitting lid is essential for this recipe. It allows the rice to cook evenly while the chicken stays tender and moist.

How To Make This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

This recipe comes together in a few simple steps, making it perfect for busy nights when you need dinner on the table fast.

Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked—it’ll finish cooking with the rice.

Once the chicken is seared, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. The aroma will have your kitchen smelling heavenly!

Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the flavorful garlic oil. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Nestle the chicken back into the skillet, cover with a lid, and let everything cook together until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.

Stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Watch as the sauce thickens and coats every bite in creamy goodness. A final sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Dinner is ready in just about 35 minutes, with minimal effort and maximum flavor!

Storage Options

Leftovers store beautifully, making this dish a great option for meal prep. Allow the chicken and rice to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.

In the refrigerator, this dish stays fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore the creamy texture, and warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

If you’d like to freeze portions, let the dish cool and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is a fantastic starting point for creativity. Here are a few ways to customize it to suit your tastes:

• Swap the chicken for shrimp or turkey for a unique twist.
• Add a cup of chopped spinach or broccoli during the final cooking stage for extra veggies.
• Use brown rice instead of white, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
• Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
• Experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyère or Pecorino Romano, for a flavor variation.

Cooking is all about making a recipe your own, so don’t hesitate to try new ideas. This Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a versatile canvas for whatever inspires you in the kitchen.

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