Description
Welcome to your new favorite recipe for a quick and satisfying dinner! If you’re looking for a delicious, creamy chicken dish that can be made in just one pan, you’ve come to the right place. Our One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, combining tender chicken breasts and fluffy rice in a rich, Parmesan-infused sauce. Plus, you only have one pan to clean up afterward—what’s not to love?
Ingredients
- 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
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Substitutions:
- Rice: Use brown rice for a nutty flavor or substitute with quinoa for a healthier twist.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure that all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and brown on both sides until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft and fragrant, around 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Add the cup of long-grain rice to the skillet and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the rice is lightly golden.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Cook Chicken and Rice
Return the chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the rice mixture. Cover the pan tightly and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve the One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs make a huge difference in flavor.
- Prevent Overcooking: Keep an eye on the rice to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- For a Thicker Sauce: Reduce the amount of chicken broth or cook uncovered for the last 5 minutes.