Easy One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Discover the perfect weeknight dinner with this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice recipe—easy, creamy, and packed with flavor! This dish combines tender chicken breasts, aromatic garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese, all cooked together with fluffy rice in one skillet for an effortless meal that everyone will love. From texture to taste, everything comes together beautifully in a single pan, making cleanup just as simple as the cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Convenient: Everything cooks in one pan, saving time on prep and cleanup.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The Parmesan and cream combine to create a luscious, comforting sauce.
• Comfort Food with a Twist: Classic chicken and rice get a delicious upgrade with garlic and herbs.
• Quick Weeknight Winner: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Mild flavors and hearty ingredients that appeal to all ages.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple, everyday ingredients come together effortlessly to create a mouthwatering and balanced meal. Each component plays a key role—whether it’s building flavor, adding texture, or enriching the creamy sauce.

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless to cook evenly and stay juicy.
• Long-Grain White Rice: Absorbs the sauce perfectly for fluffy, flavorful grains.
• Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced to infuse the dish with aromatic depth.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for a nutty, salty richness that defines this recipe.
• Chicken Broth: Adds savory moisture and helps cook the rice gently.
• Heavy Cream: Creates the velvety texture that makes the sauce irresistible.
• Olive Oil: For searing the chicken and preventing sticking.
• Dried Italian Herbs: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme for an herbal punch.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional): Adds a bright, fresh finish.

Variations for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. The base is flexible and welcoming to all kinds of creative swaps or additions.

• Swap Chicken for Turkey: Use turkey breast for a leaner protein option.
• Make It Vegetarian: Replace chicken with hearty mushrooms or tofu.
• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
• Use Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb version, swap rice with cauliflower rice but adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan.

How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside—this locks in flavor and juices.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Rice

In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then stir in the uncooked rice, allowing it to toast lightly for 1-2 minutes; this deepens the rice’s flavor and prevents mushiness later on.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Bring to Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Be careful not to boil vigorously, as the rice cooks best with steady, gentle heat.

Step 4: Return Chicken to the Pan

Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the rice mixture. Cover the pan with a lid and let everything cook together for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Herbs

Once the rice is creamy and the chicken is done, remove the lid and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the dish. Give everything a gentle stir to melt the cheese into the sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

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

• Use Room Temperature Chicken: Helps the chicken cook evenly without drying out.
• Monitor the Liquid: Keep an eye on the broth and cream levels to prevent the rice from burning or sticking.
• Don’t Rush the Sear: A proper golden crust adds incredible flavor to the final dish.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Grated fresh cheese melts better and has more vibrant flavor than pre-grated bags.
• Cover the Pan Tightly: Trapping steam helps the rice cook perfectly and keeps the chicken tender.

How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add a fresh, vibrant touch that beautifully complements the creamy sauce. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper elevates the flavor and presentation.

Side Dishes

Keep it simple with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to add texture and brightness. Steamed broccoli, green beans, or a tangy cucumber salad balance the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish in rustic shallow bowls to showcase the creamy rice nestled around the golden chicken. For entertaining, garnish with lemon wedges to brighten each bite, or drizzle a hint of truffle oil to elevate the flavor profile.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The rice tends to thicken as it cools, so adding a splash of broth or cream when reheating helps maintain that luscious consistency.

Freezing

This one-pan meal freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and avoid dryness. Heat until warmed through but avoid overcooking to keep the chicken tender.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid, so adjust accordingly to ensure the rice is fully cooked without drying out the dish.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It reheats well and can be portioned out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs are a juicy alternative and add slightly richer flavor, but adjust cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version, though the texture and flavor will be slightly different.

Do I need to soak the rice before cooking?

It’s not necessary, but rinsing the rice under cold water helps remove excess starch, preventing it from becoming overly sticky.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful dinner that comes together quickly with minimal fuss, the One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is your new go-to. Smooth, cheesy, and filled with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice, this recipe feels like a warm hug on a plate. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy and satisfying this meal is!

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