One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is an easy, comforting meal that combines tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice in a creamy, cheesy sauce. With minimal cleanup and rich flavors from Parmesan and garlic, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying family dinners.

ingredients

this Recipe

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
olive oil
garlic (minced)
long-grain white rice
chicken broth
heavy cream or half-and-half
grated Parmesan cheese
salt and pepper
fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Season chicken with salt and pepper and brown on both sides until golden but not fully cooked, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.

In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add rice and stir to coat with oil and garlic.

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.

Return chicken to the pan, placing it on top of the rice mixture.

Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for 18-20 minutes, or until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.

Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use chicken thighs for juicier meat.

Add vegetables like peas, spinach, or mushrooms to the rice.

Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for different flavors.

Use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Not recommended for freezing due to the creamy sauce.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice?

Brown rice requires longer cooking time and more liquid; adjust accordingly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, ensure broth is gluten-free.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Substitute cream with coconut milk and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Can I prepare this ahead?

Partially cook chicken and rice separately, then combine and finish cooking together.

What if rice isn’t fully cooked?

Add a little more broth and cook covered until tender.

Can I add spices?

Yes, Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes work well.

Is it okay to use pre-grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated melts better but pre-grated works in a pinch.

Can I use chicken breasts with skin?

Yes, but sear skin side down longer for crispiness.

How do I prevent chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking; use thighs or cover while cooking to retain moisture.

Conclusion

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a flavorful, fuss-free dish that’s perfect for busy days and comforting dinners. With creamy cheese, tender chicken, and fluffy rice all cooked in one pan, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.

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