Quick One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

If you’re craving a comforting meal that’s both quick and full of flavor, this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice recipe is your new best friend. Combining tender chicken, cheesy parmesan, and perfectly cooked rice all in one skillet means less cleanup and more time enjoying your food. This dish is a fantastic solution for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Dinner: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for hectic evenings when time is tight.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimizes dirty dishes by cooking everything together in a single skillet.
• Creamy Comfort Food: The luscious parmesan sauce makes each bite cozy without feeling heavy.
• Family Favorite: A dish that pleases kids and adults alike, guaranteed to get everyone at the table happy.
• Versatile Base: Easily adaptable with veggies or proteins, making it customizable to your cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, you only need a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create a rich, flavorful, and visually appealing dish. Each component plays an essential role, from the tender chicken to the creamy texture and the beautiful golden color.

• Boneless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: These provide juicy, tender protein as the star of the meal.
• Long-Grain White Rice: Absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly for fluffy, delicious grains.
• Chicken Broth: Used as the cooking liquid to infuse flavor into the rice.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds rich, cheesy depth and a slightly nutty note to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: Creates the signature creamy texture that binds the dish together.
• Garlic: Brings aromatic warmth enhancing every bite.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the chicken to golden perfection.
• Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Thyme): Optional, but brightens the dish with fresh green notes.
• Salt and Pepper: Essentials for balancing and enhancing all flavors.

Variations for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Feel free to tweak the One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice recipe to suit your taste buds or dietary needs. This recipe’s simplicity is its strength, so swapping or adding ingredients is easy and fun.

• Vegetable Boost: Toss in spinach, peas, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to give it some heat.
• Protein Swap: Use turkey, shrimp, or tofu instead of chicken to change things up.
• Dairy-Free Variation: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese for a creamy, allergy-friendly alternative.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with basil, oregano, or dill for a fresh twist on flavor.

How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes each side. This seals in the juices and adds beautiful flavor. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, making sure not to burn it. The garlic will form the aromatic base for the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Add Rice and Liquid

Add the uncooked long-grain white rice to the skillet and stir to coat the grains with the butter and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken and Rice Together

Return the seared chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them into the rice mixture. Cover the pan with a lid and simmer on low heat for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Finish

Once the rice and chicken are done, remove the lid and sprinkle grated parmesan cheese evenly over the dish. Stir gently to melt the cheese into the creamy sauce, creating that irresistible cheesy texture. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips for Making One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

• Use Room Temperature Chicken: This ensures even cooking and better searing.
• Don’t Skip the Sear: A golden crust on the chicken boosts flavor and texture immensely.
• Stir Carefully: Avoid stirring the rice too much during cooking to prevent mushiness.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Grated fresh parmesan melts better and tastes richer than pre-shredded versions.
• Adjust Liquid Amounts: Rice varies by brand, so add a little extra broth if the rice looks too dry during cooking.

How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or thyme leaves sprinkled on top complement the creamy dish with a burst of color and fresh aroma that brightens every bite.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a balanced and wholesome meal that adds freshness and texture contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a beautiful presentation, plate the rice and chicken in individual shallow bowls, drizzle an extra spoonful of creamy sauce on top, and garnish with a lemon wedge to add a splash of brightness when squeezed.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if the dish feels too thick to restore the creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind brown rice takes longer to cook, usually about 40-45 minutes, so adjust cooking time and liquid accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure your parmesan cheese is labeled gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, swap chicken with firm tofu or mushrooms, use vegetable broth, and substitute parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative plus non-dairy cream.

What sides pair best with One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice?

Light sides like roasted vegetables, mixed green salad, or steamed asparagus complement the creamy richness perfectly.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer or cut into the thickest part to ensure the meat is no longer pink.

Final Thoughts

Making One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. It’s quick, creamy, and packed with comforting flavors that feel both indulgent and wholesome. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with variations, this dish will soon be one you turn to again and again. So grab your skillet and get cooking — your next favorite dinner awaits!

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