One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice bubbling away on your stove. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and tender chicken nestled in perfectly cooked rice, this dish is a hug in a skillet – and the best part? It’s all done in one pan!

I first stumbled upon this recipe on a chilly weeknight when I didn’t want to deal with a mountain of dishes. Since then, it has become my go-to for busy evenings when I want something hearty, quick, and universally loved.

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

Get ready to fall head over heels for your next favorite weeknight meal. This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is as practical as it is delicious!

First, it’s the ultimate time-saver. With just one pan and about 40 minutes, you’ll have a full meal on the table, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.

This dish is also a crowd-pleaser. Kids love the cheesy, creamy rice, and adults appreciate the tender, juicy chicken with its golden crust. It’s a win-win for families!

Budget-conscious cooks will appreciate the simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. You probably already have most of what you need at home.

Lastly, the recipe is endlessly versatile. Add veggies, swap out proteins, or adjust seasonings – this dish adapts to whatever you have on hand.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe comes from its simple, everyday ingredients working together to create something extraordinary. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are perfect for this dish. Their natural juiciness pairs beautifully with the creamy rice. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but be mindful of cooking times to avoid dryness.

Rice: I recommend using long-grain white rice for this recipe. It cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors beautifully. Avoid instant rice as it can turn mushy.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty, salty richness to the dish. Pre-grated cheese works in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as bold.

Chicken Broth and Cream: These two form the luscious base for the rice. The broth infuses flavor, while the cream creates the silky texture. Half-and-half can substitute for cream if you’re looking to lighten things up.

Garlic and Onion: These aromatics form the flavor foundation, adding depth and warmth to the dish.

Special Equipment: A large skillet with a lid is essential for this recipe. Make sure it’s big enough to hold the chicken and rice comfortably without crowding.

How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Cooking this dish is straightforward, and you’ll love how easily it comes together. Let me guide you through each step:

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside – don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked yet.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Base

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the cream and adjust the heat to low.

Step 4: Add the Rice and Chicken

Stir in the rice, ensuring it’s evenly distributed in the liquid. Nestle the seared chicken back into the pan on top of the rice. Cover with a lid and let everything simmer gently for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan

Once the rice and chicken are cooked, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir gently to combine, allowing the cheese to melt into the creamy sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Storage Options

This dish stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Refrigeration: Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing: You can freeze this meal in individual portions for up to 2 months. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the creamy texture. Microwave reheating works too – just cover to retain moisture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Veggie Boost: Add chopped spinach, peas, or diced carrots to the rice for a nutrient-packed twist.
• Protein Swap: Substitute the chicken with turkey or shrimp for a fresh take.
• Cheese Options: Try Pecorino Romano or Gruyere instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Herbaceous Flair: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary with the broth for an aromatic lift.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce if you love some heat.

Don’t be afraid to experiment – this dish is forgiving and delicious no matter how you customize it!

There you have it: a comforting, creamy, and completely satisfying dinner in one pan. With its minimal prep, easy cleanup, and incredible flavor, this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is sure to become a staple in your home. Happy cooking!

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