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Discover the joy of effortless cooking with our One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice. This recipe marries tender chicken breasts, fluffy rice, and a luscious Parmesan-infused cream sauce—all cooked together in one pan for ultimate convenience and minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat, this dish is bursting with rich, savory flavors that are sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a culinary gem, combining simplicity and flavor in every bite. The creamy Parmesan sauce envelopes juicy chicken and perfectly cooked rice, delivering a comforting, homemade taste. Best of all, the one-pan method saves time and effort, making it a go-to for stress-free, delicious meals.
Pro Tips for Perfection
- Opt for Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless thighs if you prefer extra juicy and tender meat.
- Toast the Rice: Enhance the flavor by toasting the rice in the pan for a few minutes before adding liquid.
- Grate Fresh Parmesan: For a richer, melt-in-your-mouth experience, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-grated options.
- Deglaze for Depth: After browning the chicken, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or chicken broth to lift flavorful bits from the bottom.
- Seal the Pan Tight: Cover the pan securely while simmering to ensure evenly cooked rice and to lock in moisture.
Recipe Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas for a meat-free option.
- Low-Carb Twist: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice to cut carbs without sacrificing flavor.
- Add Veggies: Mix in vibrant vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for added color and nutrients.
- Herbal Accents: Customize the flavor with thyme, rosemary, or basil.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Pair this creamy delight with a crisp garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For an indulgent touch, serve with garlic bread or roasted asparagus. Complement the dish with a glass of chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay to elevate your dining experience.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture, or heat gently in a covered skillet on low.
FAQs About This Recipe
- Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and additional liquid. - Can I prepare this dish ahead?
Absolutely! It reheats well, though the rice’s texture may soften slightly. - Is there a dairy-free option?
Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative. - What cheeses can replace Parmesan?
Try Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or Gruyère for a unique twist. - Can I add vegetables?
Definitely! Spinach, peas, or bell peppers work beautifully in this dish. - How do I avoid mushy rice?
Keep the pan tightly covered and stick to the recommended rice-to-liquid ratio. - Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs make a deliciously juicy substitute. - What if my sauce is too thick?
Simply thin it out with a bit of chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency. - Is this dish gluten-free?
Ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free, as the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. - How can I add more flavor?
Experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil. Deglazing the pan with white wine before adding broth also boosts flavor depth.
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The above recipe draws inspiration from the renowned culinary experts, Sally, Chris and Lindsay.
Ingredients
Enjoy a quick and delicious dinner with our One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice, featuring tender chicken and creamy rice, all cooked in a single pan for easy cleanup.
Total Time: 40 minutes
- 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)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and brown on both sides until golden. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Toast the Rice: Add rice to the skillet and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook Chicken and Rice: Return chicken to the skillet, cover tightly, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Finish with Parmesan: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the skillet is covered tightly to cook the rice evenly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 634 Total Fat: 40g Saturated Fat: 20g Trans Fat: 1g Unsaturated Fat: 17g Cholesterol: 193mg Sodium: 1094mg Carbohydrates: 19g Fiber: 0g Sugar: 3g Protein: 48g
