One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Enjoy a quick and flavorful dinner with One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and serves as an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings. The creamy sauce infused with Parmesan cheese elevates the simple chicken and rice to a delightful meal that everyone will love. Plus, the best part is that it all cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!

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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 & Rice
• 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
• Pair with Fresh Vegetables
• Add a Salad
• Include Bread Options
• 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
• How can I customize One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice?
• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
• What should I serve with One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice?
• How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it suitable for even the busiest of evenings.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of creamy Parmesan cheese and tender chicken creates a rich flavor that excites the taste buds.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less time scrubbing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a comforting family dinner or impress guests at a casual gathering; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to tailor this dish to your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can simplify cooking and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for even cooking and combines all ingredients efficiently.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors in your dish.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of chopping onions and garlic, enhancing preparation speed.

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Rice

• 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 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, stirring frequently to coat it with the oil and aromatics.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 5: Cook Chicken and Rice

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

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan

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

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately. 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 is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dish.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: A classic side that adds vibrant color and nutrition.
• Roasted Asparagus: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, this adds a crunchy texture.
• Sautéed Spinach: Quick-cooked with olive oil for a healthy and flavorful addition.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons complement the richness of the chicken.
• Greek Salad: Fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese provide a refreshing contrast.
• Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed with vinaigrette for a simple yet satisfying side.

Include Bread Options

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls add a comforting touch to your meal.

How to Perfect One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

To make your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning: Enhance flavor by seasoning the chicken well before cooking.
• Proper simmering: Ensure you cover the skillet tightly to trap steam for even cooking.
• Quality ingredients: Use fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan for richer flavors.
• Stir occasionally: Prevent sticking by gently stirring the rice during cooking.
• Adjust creaminess: Feel free to add more heavy cream or broth if you prefer a saucier dish.

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

When serving One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic that pair beautifully with chicken.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze add depth of flavor.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a nice crunch and sweetness against the creamy rice.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw offers a refreshing contrast to the rich main dish.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, veggies, and lemon dressing complements well.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet potatoes add another layer of flavor and health benefits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Seasoning: Failing to season the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Not Browning the Chicken: Skipping the browning step can affect the overall dish’s flavor. Take time to brown the chicken properly for added depth.
• Ignoring Rice Toasting: Not toasting the rice can result in a less flavorful meal. Toasting enhances the rice’s taste, so don’t skip this step.
• Lifting the Lid Too Early: Frequently checking on your dish can release steam and affect cooking time. Keep the lid on during simmering for best results.
• Overcooking or Undercooking: Not monitoring cooking times can lead to dry chicken or undercooked rice. Use a meat thermometer and check rice doneness closely.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Make sure to leave some space in the container as rice expands when frozen.

Reheating One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and reheat for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally until heated evenly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice?

You can add vegetables such as spinach or peas for extra nutrition and color. Adjust the cheese type or add herbs based on your preferences.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but note that brown rice requires longer cooking time. Adjust liquid amounts and cooking duration accordingly.

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

This dish is complete on its own, but you might pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Final Thoughts

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is not only quick but also packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and allows for various customizations based on your taste. Give it a try, and enjoy this comforting meal!