When you’re looking for a quick, comforting, and flavorful meal, this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is your go-to recipe. It’s rich, cheesy, and full of flavor, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner. Not only is this dish comforting, but it also saves you time on cleaning since everything cooks in a single pan.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or simply someone who loves a delicious one-pan meal, this recipe hits all the marks. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the simple steps to whip up this creamy masterpiece in no time!
Ingredients
Before starting, make sure you have everything on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil for searing
For the Rice and Sauce:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach (optional for extra nutrients)
- 1/4 cup parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s jump into the step-by-step process for cooking this scrumptious dish.
1. Prepare and Season the Chicken
The first step is to season the chicken breasts with the perfect blend of spices. In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. This will infuse the chicken with a burst of flavor from the very first bite.
2. Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until they’re golden brown but not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. Don’t worry about cooking it fully at this stage, as it will continue cooking later with the rice.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet (with all the flavorful bits left behind), lower the heat to medium and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Cook the Rice
Add the uncooked rice directly to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir the rice for about 1-2 minutes, allowing it to absorb all the flavors and slightly toast. This step ensures that the rice cooks perfectly and takes on a delicious nutty flavor.
5. Pour in the Liquids
Once the rice is lightly toasted, pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir everything together until well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, which will allow the rice to start cooking and soak up the liquids.
6. Add Parmesan and Herbs
At this point, stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, along with the dried thyme and basil. The Parmesan cheese melts into the broth and cream, creating a rich, velvety sauce that coats the rice beautifully. If you’re using fresh spinach, now is the time to fold it in. The spinach will wilt and blend seamlessly into the dish.
7. Nestle the Chicken Back in the Pan
Carefully nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the pan, placing them on top of the rice mixture. Lower the heat, cover the pan with a lid, and let everything cook together for about 20 minutes. This allows the chicken to finish cooking, the rice to become tender, and all the flavors to meld into a perfect harmony.
8. Check for Doneness
After about 20 minutes, check to ensure the rice has absorbed most of the liquid and is fully cooked. The chicken should also reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If needed, let the dish cook for a few more minutes until everything is done.
9. Finish with Fresh Herbs and Parmesan
Once everything is cooked through, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the top with more Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley or chives for a burst of freshness and color.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is now ready to be served! The chicken should be tender and juicy, while the rice is creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned. Serve this dish straight from the pan and watch your family or guests dive in with delight.
Tips for the Best One-Pan Chicken & Rice
- Use high-quality chicken broth: This will enhance the overall flavor of your dish. Low-sodium broth works best if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Don’t rush the searing: Browning the chicken before simmering helps lock in juices and adds depth of flavor.
- Heavy cream is key: For a rich, creamy sauce, heavy cream is a must. Avoid substituting with milk or half-and-half, as it won’t provide the same luxurious texture.
- Add veggies for more nutrients: While spinach is a great option, you can also toss in peas, carrots, or even broccoli to make the dish heartier.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice recipe is a true winner for several reasons:
- Minimal clean-up: Everything cooks in one pan, making clean-up a breeze.
- Hearty and satisfying: The combination of juicy chicken, cheesy rice, and a creamy sauce makes for a filling, comforting meal.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or use different herbs to suit your taste preferences.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy, cheesy flavors of this dish.
FAQs
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply ensure that your chicken broth is gluten-free, and you’re good to go. Rice is naturally gluten-free, so this dish is easily adaptable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook and may require more liquid. Adjust the cooking time and broth accordingly.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to maintain the creamy texture.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the rice may become a bit softer after thawing. If you don’t mind that, freeze it in portions and reheat as needed.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
What other cheeses can I use?
While Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or even mozzarella for a different twist.