Irresistible One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

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by Liora

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There’s something magical about the aroma of One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice wafting through your kitchen, isn’t there? Imagine tender chicken simmering in a velvety sauce, mingling with fluffy rice and an explosion of cheese. Red Beans and Rice It’s a dish that promises comfort, coziness, and just the right amount of indulgence. Whether you’re having a weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a casual gathering, this meal is sure to impress.

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I first stumbled upon this recipe during one of those “what do I make for dinner?” crises. You know the kind – the fridge looks like a black hole and your creativity has taken a vacation. But the minute I whipped up this creamy masterpiece, it felt like culinary magic. Each bite took me back to family dinners where laughter filled the air, and everyone savored every last morsel. So grab your apron as we dive into this delightful adventure!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a breeze to prepare, making your weeknight dinners stress-free.
  • The creamy flavor profile will have you dreaming about seconds before you even finish your first plate.
  • Its stunning presentation adds elegance to any table setting, making it perfect for special occasions or cozy family meals.
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences with simple substitutions.

Ingredients for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe; feel free to adjust based on your appetite.
  • Garlic: Fresh cloves provide a robust flavor; chop them finely to release their aromatic goodness.
  • Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while infusing rich flavor into the rice.
  • Long-Grain White Rice: This rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the delicious sauce flavors.
  • Heavy Cream: For that luxurious creaminess that makes each bite feel like a warm hug.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds depth; opt for high-quality cheese for maximum flavor impact.
  • Olive Oil: A splash of good olive oil helps brown the chicken perfectly while adding richness.
  • Dried Oregano: A sprinkle of oregano adds an earthy note that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering like a disco ball at a Saturday night party, add your seasoned chicken breasts.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Cook those bad boys for about 6-7 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. You can sprinkle some salt and pepper on them if you want to give them extra love.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside like it’s taking a well-deserved break. In that same pan, toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about one minute should do it! Your kitchen will smell like heaven.

Step 4: Add Broth and Rice

Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil while scraping up any bits stuck on the pan (that’s called deglazing). Stir in long-grain rice and return your chicken back to the pan.

Step 5: Create Creamy Goodness

Lower heat and stir in heavy cream along with grated Parmesan cheese after covering with a lid. Let it simmer gently until everything is cooked through and creamy—around 15-20 minutes should be perfect.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once everything is ready, transfer your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice onto plates or serve straight from the pan (because who doesn’t love minimal cleanup?). Drizzle with extra cream or sprinkle more cheese if you’re feeling indulgent!

Now you’ve got yourself an exquisite meal that not only warms your belly but also fills your heart with happiness! So go ahead—take that first bite and let all those wonderful flavors dance on your taste buds!

You Must Know

  • This amazing One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
  • Perfect for a family weeknight meal but versatile enough for special occasions.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To master One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, begin by searing the chicken until golden brown. Next, sauté onions and garlic, add rice, then stir in broth and cream. Cooking everything together in one pan ensures the flavors meld perfectly while reducing cleanup time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out white rice for brown or quinoa for a healthier twist. Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. For spice lovers, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the dish’s flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to retain moisture and creaminess. Microwave or warm gently on the stove, stirring occasionally.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always let your chicken rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy!
  • Using freshly grated Parmesan adds more flavor than pre-grated cheese.
  • Don’t skip the garlic; it’s essential for that mouthwatering aroma!

The first time I made One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, my kids declared me “Master Chef.” They devoured every last grain of rice and even asked for seconds—now that’s a winning recipe if I ever saw one! Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe.

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice?

To prepare One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, arborio rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Additionally, include garlic, onion, and your choice of vegetables such as spinach or peas to enhance flavor and nutrition. Seasonings like salt, pepper, and Italian herbs add depth to the dish. Having all these ingredients ready will simplify the cooking process and ensure a delicious outcome.

How long does it take to cook One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice?

Cooking One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. The preparation time is around 10 minutes while the cooking time ranges from 20 to 30 minutes. This timing allows the chicken to become tender and fully cooked while ensuring the rice absorbs all the creamy flavors. A quick meal that doesn’t compromise on taste is ideal for busy weeknights.

Can I make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice ahead of time! After cooking, let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish again, simply reheat it on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through. The flavors may develop further overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.

What can I substitute for Arborio rice in this recipe?

If you don’t have Arborio rice on hand for your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, you can substitute it with other short-grain rice varieties like Carnaroli or even medium-grain rice. Alternatively, jasmine or basmati rice can work in a pinch but will result in a different texture. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type of rice you choose; adjust liquid amounts accordingly for best results.

Conclusion for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice:

In summary, One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are easy to prepare and perfect for busy nights. With simple ingredients like chicken, arborio rice, and creamy Parmesan sauce, this dish stands out as both satisfying and comforting. Creamy Alfredo Sauce Preparing it in just one pan simplifies cleanup while enhancing the meal’s overall richness. Enjoying this recipe will surely become a staple in your kitchen!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice


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  • Author: Liora
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy sauce—all cooked in one pan. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, delivering gourmet flavors that will impress your family and friends. With each bite, you’ll experience an explosion of cheesy goodness that evokes heartwarming memories of family dinners.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken breasts and sear for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about one minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil while scraping up any brown bits from the pan (deglazing). Stir in rice and return the chicken to the skillet.
  4. Lower the heat, then stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until everything is cooked through and creamy.
  5. Serve directly from the pan or plate it up, garnished with additional cream or cheese if desired.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (about 290g)
  • Calories: 570
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 640mg
  • Fat: 31g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 43g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 145mg

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