Description
One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Comfort food made easy! This delicious dish combines tender chicken breasts with creamy Parmesan rice, all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or busy weeknight meal, it’s packed with flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
1. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Brown in a skillet with olive oil.
2. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
3. Add rice and toast for 2-3 mins.
4. Pour in broth and cream, return chicken, and simmer until rice is tender.
5. Stir in Parmesan, adjust seasoning, and garnish with parsley.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 634
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep & Season: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with salt and pepper. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Brown the Chicken: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken does not need to be cooked through at this stage. Remove to a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
4. Toast the Rice: Add the uncooked rice to the pan. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes to lightly toast the grains, which adds depth of flavor.
5. Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer. Return the chicken breasts to the pan, nestling them into the liquid.
6. Cook Through: Cover the pan, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
7. Finish & Serve: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy dish pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides to balance the meal. Serve it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, or steamed green vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans. For a heartier meal, add a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
How-to Summary
Season and brown chicken. Sauté onion and garlic. Toast rice briefly. Add broth and cream, return chicken, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and chicken is cooked. Off heat, stir in Parmesan, garnish, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, bone-in or boneless thighs work well. Adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.
Can I substitute the heavy cream? For a lighter version, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce will be less rich and thick. Avoid milk as it may curdle.
Why is my rice still crunchy? Ensure the liquid is at a gentle simmer (not a rapid boil) once covered, and that the heat is low enough. Do not lift the lid during cooking, as this releases steam.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Can I add vegetables to the dish? Absolutely. Add chopped mushrooms with the onions, or stir in a cup of frozen peas or spinach just before adding the Parmesan.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Browning the Chicken: Skipping this step sacrifices flavor. Get a good golden sear for depth.
- Using Instant Rice: It will become mushy. Use long-grain white rice like Jasmine or Basmati.
- Stirring During Simmering: Leave the rice undisturbed while covered to ensure even cooking and prevent a gummy texture.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Since it continues to cook in the simmering liquid, just brown it well initially to keep it juicy.
Conclusion
This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the ultimate weeknight hero, delivering restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort and cleanup. Its creamy, cheesy sauce and tender chicken over perfectly cooked rice make it a guaranteed family favorite. By following the detailed steps and tips, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a comforting, satisfying meal any night of the week.