One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
There’s something so comforting about a one-pan meal that marries creamy textures with rich flavors. One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the ultimate cozy dinner that feels indulgent but comes together effortlessly. Tender, juicy chicken breasts nestled in a bed of creamy, Parmesan-infused rice—it’s a dish that will not only save you time but also impress your family with its restaurant-quality taste. This recipe is ideal for busy women looking for a satisfying meal with minimal clean-up, but maximum flavor and warmth.
Ingredients Overview
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (4): These are the protein-packed stars of the dish. Seasoning them generously with salt and pepper ensures each bite is full of flavor.
Long-Grain White Rice (1 cup): Long-grain rice is ideal for this recipe as it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the chicken broth and cream while maintaining a fluffy texture.
Chicken Broth (2 cups): Provides a savory base that elevates the rice’s flavor profile. Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): This brings richness and makes the rice delectably creamy. The cream helps balance the savory flavors of the chicken and broth.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 cup): Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the creaminess of the dish. Freshly grated Parmesan works best, but pre-grated is convenient too.
Small Onion, Finely Chopped: This adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Garlic is essential for infusing the rice with bold, aromatic flavor. Feel free to add more if you love a garlicky punch.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Used to sear the chicken and sauté the onions and garlic, giving everything a rich, golden flavor.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Simple seasoning that brings out the best in each ingredient.
Fresh Parsley (for garnish): A sprinkle of parsley adds a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Season the Chicken: Generously sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This step is key to ensuring every bite of chicken is well-seasoned and flavorful.
2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Don’t worry about cooking them through at this stage; we’ll finish them later. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Using the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat for about 3 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent. The aroma of garlic and onion will create a wonderful base for the dish.
4. Toast the Rice: Add the uncooked long-grain rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the oil, onions, and garlic. Let the rice toast for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step infuses the rice with flavor and helps it hold its texture during cooking.
5. Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. The broth will absorb into the rice, while the cream will lend a rich, luxurious texture.
6. Return the Chicken: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, ensuring they are partially submerged in the creamy rice mixture. This allows the chicken to finish cooking while the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors.
7. Cover and Cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let everything cook for about 20-25 minutes. During this time, the rice will soften, and the chicken will cook through. Check occasionally to make sure the liquid isn’t evaporating too quickly; if it is, you can add a splash of extra broth or water.
8. Add Parmesan and Melt: Once the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt into the creamy mixture, about 2-3 minutes.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and enjoy your creamy Parmesan chicken and rice hot, served straight from the skillet!
Valuable Cooking Tips
Tip 1: Use an oven-safe skillet: If you want to crisp up the cheese on top, you can place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes after adding the Parmesan.
Tip 2: Don’t rush the sear: Properly browning the chicken ensures a depth of flavor that will carry through the entire dish.
Tip 3: Add veggies: For a complete meal, stir in some spinach or peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking to add a burst of color and nutrients.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the creamy sauce, then microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.
20 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and possibly add more liquid, as brown rice takes longer to cook.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point where you add the Parmesan. Reheat and add the cheese before serving.
3. Can I freeze this dish? It’s not ideal to freeze creamy rice dishes, as the texture can become grainy after thawing.
4. Can I substitute the heavy cream? You can use half-and-half or even milk, but the sauce will be less creamy.
5. What can I substitute for Parmesan? Asiago or Pecorino Romano are great substitutes for Parmesan.
6. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more flavor and moisture to the dish.
7. What’s the best skillet to use? A deep, heavy-bottomed skillet, like cast iron or stainless steel, works best for even cooking.
8. Can I add vegetables to the recipe? Yes, you can add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
9. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
10. Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, but reduce the overall cooking time, as the chicken won’t need as much time to heat through.
(Continue with more FAQs as needed…)
20 Secrets for Culinary Perfection
Toast the rice before adding liquids to develop deeper flavor.
Season generously—don’t skimp on salt and pepper when prepping your chicken.
Sear the chicken well to lock in juices and add complexity to the dish.
Use fresh Parmesan for a creamier, more flavorful result.
Deglaze the pan with a splash of wine after sautéing onions for added depth.
Cover tightly when simmering to ensure even cooking.
Let the dish rest after cooking to let the flavors meld.
Don’t overcook the rice—remove the dish from heat as soon as it’s tender.
Balance creaminess with acidity by adding a squeeze of lemon juice if needed.
Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the chicken. (Continue with more secrets as needed…)
Enjoy creating this delicious and comforting One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice for a perfect weeknight dinner
