If there’s one recipe I could make a hundred times and never tire of, it’s this one pan creamy parmesan chicken and rice. It’s the perfect marriage of hearty chicken, velvety parmesan sauce, and tender rice.
Not only is it quick to make (hello, dinner in 30 minutes!), but it also packs so much flavor that you’ll be scraping the pan clean. And hey, if you love creamy dishes, you might also enjoy this creamy chicken tortilla soup for a cozy change-up! Trust me, you can’t go wrong with this comforting meal.
Ingredients You will Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this fabulous dish. Each ingredient plays an essential role, so consider the tips and substitutions for the best outcome.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1½ pounds): For maximum flavor and tenderness, go with thighs if you love juiciness.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Avoid instant rice, which can overcook easily.
- 2 ¼ cups chicken broth: Adds depth and richness to the rice. Opt for low-sodium broth to control the salt level.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the dish so luxuriously creamy. You can swap for half-and-half for a lighter version.
- ¾ cup parmesan cheese, shredded: Freshly grated parmesan melts better and gives that authentic cheesy goodness.
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped: Gives a slightly sweet, aromatic base.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Because every great dish starts with garlic!
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup parsley, chopped (optional): For a fresh herby finish.
Note: This recipe makes enough for about 4 to 6 servings, depending on portion size.
Variations to Try
Want to mix it up? These variations make the recipe adaptable for everyone.
- Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. Toss in hearty veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure your chicken broth and parmesan are certified gluten-free.
- Extra Flavor: Add a tablespoon of butter, lemon zest, or a pinch of smoked paprika for a flavor boost.
- Cheese Swap: Swap parmesan with Asiago, Gruyère, or even sharp cheddar for a different cheesy kick.
Cooking Time
Here’s how long you’ll need to whip up this meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Equipment You Need
Get everything ready to cook efficiently!
- Large skillet with lid: For cooking everything in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring ingredients without scratching your pan.
- Cutting board and knife: For prepping the chicken and chopping onions.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise ingredient quantities.
How to Make One Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice
This is where the magic happens. Follow these steps, and you’ll have dinner ready in no time!
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken with salt and pepper before adding it to the skillet. Cook each side for about 4 minutes until browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Turn down the heat to medium, and add a little more olive oil to the pan. Toss in the chopped onion and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it softens. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute, letting the aroma fill your kitchen.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Pour the rice into the skillet alongside the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for 2–3 minutes to lightly toast the rice. This step ensures the grains soak up all the flavors.
Step 4: Combine Liquids and Simmer
Add chicken broth, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the rice mixture. Stir well before bringing it to a gentle simmer. Return the browned chicken to the skillet, cover with the lid, and cook on low heat for about 25–30 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan
Once cooked, remove the lid and sprinkle parmesan cheese evenly into the skillet. Stir everything together until the cheese melts and coats the rice. Garnish with parsley for a fresh touch, and your dish is ready to serve!
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
- Don’t skip toasting the rice. It adds a subtle nutty flavor and prevents the rice from sticking together.
- Cover the pan tightly during cooking to ensure the rice cooks evenly and stays moist.
- If you love crispy textures, broil the skillet for a minute after adding parmesan.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving—I always add an extra pinch of salt to bring out the creaminess.
How to Serve One Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Presentation goes a long way! Spoon the creamy chicken and rice onto individual plates or serve directly from the skillet for a rustic feel. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of shredded parmesan.
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted broccoli, or these garlic parmesan crispy air-fried chicken wings if you’re serving a crowd.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick snapshot of the main nutrients in a typical serving of this dish.
- Calories: Approximately 470
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 28g
How to Store the Dish
Keep leftovers fresh with these storage tips.
- Refrigerating: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
- Reheating: Add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to restore the creaminess. Warm up in the microwave or on the stovetop.
For more delicious dinner inspirations, check out these easy dinner recipes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to try this dish, but here are the best ones!
- Effortless cleanup: All the cooking happens in one pan.
- Quick to make: Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Customize with different proteins, vegetables, or cheese.
- Family-approved: Kids and adults alike will love this creamy and cheesy creation.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can, but keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and additional liquid. Adjust accordingly.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Definitely! Swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk, and use a non-dairy cheese alternative.
What’s the best way to reheat this dish without drying it out?
Add a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or water before reheating. This helps restore moisture and creaminess.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dish up to the simmering step and refrigerate it. When ready to eat, reheat and add parmesan before serving.