One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Indulge in a delightful meal with this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, perfect for busy weeknights. This easy recipe combines tender chicken breasts with creamy, Parmesan-infused rice all cooked in one skillet, making it not only a flavorful dish but also a breeze to clean up afterward. In just 40 minutes, you can create a comforting and satisfying dinner that your whole family will love. The rich flavors of garlic and cheese meld perfectly with the chicken, offering a delicious meal that’s both simple to prepare and impressive enough for entertaining guests. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to make it uniquely yours!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Rice
• For Flavoring
• How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Step 1: Season the Chicken
• Step 2: Brown the Chicken
• Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
• Step 4: Toast the Rice
• Step 5: Add Liquids
• Step 6: Cook the Chicken
• Step 7: Finish with Cheese
• Step 8: Serve Hot
• How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• With Fresh Herbs
• With Vegetables
• With Bread
• With Salad
• How to Perfect One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Best Side Dishes for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Reheating One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I customize the One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice?
• What type of chicken works best?
• How do I ensure my rice cooks perfectly?
• Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice takes only 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Minimal Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pan, you spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of garlic, cream, and Parmesan creates a rich flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies like spinach or peas for extra nutrition and color.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help ensure efficiency while preparing the dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to cook the chicken evenly while providing enough room for the rice and liquid ingredients to simmer without spilling.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools are great for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware, ensuring smooth cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Rice

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream

For Flavoring

• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Step 1: Season the Chicken

• Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

• Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet.
• Brown both sides of the chicken until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
• Once browned, set the chicken aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

• In the same skillet, add chopped onion.
• Sauté until fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
• Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 4: Toast the Rice

• Stir in long-grain white rice into the skillet.
• Toast the rice for about 2 minutes until slightly golden.

Step 5: Add Liquids

• Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; stir well.
• Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Cook the Chicken

• Return browned chicken to the skillet.
• Cover with a lid, reduce heat, and let simmer until cooked through (20-25 minutes).

Step 7: Finish with Cheese

• After cooking, stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 8: Serve Hot

• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot. Enjoy your delicious One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice!

How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Serving One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice can elevate your dining experience. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments, allowing you to customize each meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil: Add fresh basil leaves for a fragrant twist that complements the creamy flavors.

With Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Serve alongside lightly steamed broccoli for a nutritious touch.
• Sautéed Spinach: Incorporate sautéed spinach to introduce a pop of color and added nutrients.

With Bread

• Garlic Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread for an indulgent experience that’s perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: Offer slices of crusty baguette to soak up every bit of the creamy goodness.

With Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and tang to balance the richness of the chicken and rice.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A light mixed greens salad with vinaigrette can refresh your palate between bites.

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How to Perfect One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

To ensure your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice comes out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality broth enhance flavor significantly.
• Avoid Overcooking Chicken: Monitor cooking time closely to keep chicken juicy and tender.
• Add Cheese Gradually: Stir in Parmesan gradually to control creaminess and prevent clumping.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking for the best flavor profile.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving, letting flavors meld together.
• Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables according to your taste or what you have on hand.

Best Side Dishes for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Pairing side dishes with your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting addition.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Crisp roasted asparagus offers a healthy crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy rice.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the chicken dish.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings in additional texture and nutrition while being easy to prepare.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a fun, seasonal side that pairs perfectly with any chicken dish.
6. Ratatouille: This vegetable medley brings vibrant colors and flavors, adding healthy variety to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it tough and dry. Monitor the cooking time closely and check for doneness.
• Using low-quality rice: Not all rice is created equal. Opt for long-grain white rice for the best texture and flavor in your dish.
• Neglecting to sauté vegetables: Adding raw vegetables without sautéing can result in uneven cooking. Always cook them until fragrant before adding other ingredients.
• Adding cheese too early: If you add Parmesan too soon, it may not melt smoothly. Wait until the chicken is fully cooked before stirring it in.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil and heat for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, here are some common questions answered.

Can I customize the One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay tender.

How do I ensure my rice cooks perfectly?

Make sure you follow the liquid ratios closely; using too much liquid can result in mushy rice.

Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan?

Absolutely! Try using Cheddar or Gruyère for a different flavor profile, but remember that each cheese may alter the creaminess of your dish.

Final Thoughts

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is an easy yet impressive meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it a comforting choice that everyone will enjoy. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite veggies or spices to make this dish uniquely yours!