One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Enjoy a quick and flavorful dinner with this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, combining tender chicken and creamy rice in just one skillet. It’s an ideal meal for family dinners or when entertaining guests, showcasing rich flavors with minimal cleanup.

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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 the Flavor Base
• For Garnish
• How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
• Step 3: Toast the Rice
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Cook Chicken and Rice
• Step 6: Finish with Parmesan
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Family Style
• With Fresh Salad
• Garnished Plates
• 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
• What can I serve with One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice?
• Can I use different types of cheese?
• How do I make it healthier?
• Can I substitute the chicken?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe is ready in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Minimal Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pan, you’ll spend less time washing dishes.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy Parmesan sauce coats the chicken and rice, delivering a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile Meal: Great as a main course, it pairs well with various sides like steamed vegetables or salad.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting combination of chicken and rice.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A wide skillet allows for even cooking of chicken and rice while keeping the ingredients from overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your skillet’s surface.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions for consistent results.

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 the Flavor Base

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and brown on both sides until golden. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add the rice to the skillet and toast for 2-3 minutes. Stir frequently to coat it with oil and aromatics.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Cook Chicken and Rice

Return the browned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cover tightly with a lid, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately for a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy!

How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Serving your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present this dish that will impress your family or guests.

Family Style

• Serve Directly from the Skillet: Keep it simple by serving the dish right from the pan, allowing everyone to help themselves. This adds a casual and inviting touch to the meal.

With Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: Pair the creamy chicken and rice with a light garden salad. The freshness of greens helps balance the richness of the dish.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the flavors perfectly, adding a crunchy texture and tangy dressing.

Garnished Plates

• Chopped Parsley Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on each plate for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Lemon Wedge on the Side: Adding a lemon wedge can brighten up the flavors. A squeeze of lemon juice just before eating enhances the taste.

How to Perfect One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

To achieve perfection with your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, follow these helpful tips for optimal results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality Parmesan cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
• Check Seasoning Before Serving: Taste before serving to adjust salt and pepper as needed. This ensures every bite is flavorful.
• Avoid Overcooking the Chicken: Keep an eye on cook times so that your chicken remains juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C).
• Simmer on Low Heat: A gentle simmer allows flavors to meld without drying out the chicken or rice.
• Stir Occasionally: Give your rice an occasional stir during cooking to prevent it from sticking and promote even cooking.

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

Complementing your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice with side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrition, creating a well-rounded meal.
2. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread can soak up any extra creamy sauce left on your plate, making it irresistible.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus provides an earthy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the chicken and rice.
4. Mashed Potatoes: For those who love comfort food, creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent pairing with this dish.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a delightful crunch and sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes like this one.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing the rich flavors of the main dish.
7. Quinoa Salad: Quinoa salad with fresh veggies serves as a nutritious alternative that complements the main course beautifully.
8. Mixed Vegetables Stir-Fry: A quick stir-fry of mixed vegetables can add color and texture while keeping things healthy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking for best results.
• Not browning the chicken properly: If you rush this step, your chicken may not develop that delicious golden crust. Take your time and brown both sides of the chicken well.
• Overcooking the rice: Cooking the rice too long can make it mushy. Keep an eye on the timer and check for doneness around 20 minutes.
• Using too much liquid: Adding excess broth or cream can result in soupy rice. Stick to the amounts specified in the recipe for perfect consistency.
• Not covering the skillet tightly: A loose lid allows steam to escape, affecting the cooking process. Ensure your skillet is covered tightly while simmering.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, stir occasionally until heated thoroughly. Add a splash of broth if needed to loosen up the mixture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice?

You can pair this dish with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While Parmesan adds great flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar.

How do I make it healthier?

Consider using whole grain rice and reducing the amount of heavy cream. You can also add more vegetables into the mix!

Can I substitute the chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with boneless turkey breasts or even plant-based proteins like tofu.

Final Thoughts

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is not only quick and easy but also incredibly flavorful. This versatile recipe allows for customization based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love!

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