Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe

This Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is a weeknight lifesaver! It’s a quick and easy one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor. Tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice are coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce with a hint of garlic and Italian herbs. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you don’t have a lot of time to cook.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice

• Flavorful and Satisfying: This dish is bursting with flavor, thanks to the combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs. It’s also incredibly satisfying, thanks to the protein from the chicken and the heartiness of the rice.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe is a breeze to make, even for beginner cooks. You’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time!
• One-Pan Wonder: This dish is made in just one pan, which means less cleanup for you.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this dish with different vegetables, herbs, or protein.

this Recipe

Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice

• Chicken Breasts: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe.
• Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dish.
• Onion: A diced onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: Adds a blend of herbs for a classic Italian flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the chicken and rice.
• Chicken Broth: Adds flavor and helps cook the rice.
• Long-Grain White Rice: I use long-grain white rice for this recipe, but you can use any type of rice you like.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a rich and creamy sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the sauce.
• Parsley: Optional, for garnish.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

Want to try something different? Here are a few ideas:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for some heat.
• Veggie Delight: Add some other vegetables, like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Different Protein: Swap out the chicken for shrimp, sausage, or tofu.
• Creamy Twist: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Onion

Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it begins to soften.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken, Italian seasoning, pepper, and salt to the skillet. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown on all sides.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for one more minute, stirring constantly.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

Add the chicken broth and rice to the pan and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pan with a lid and simmer for 17-20 minutes, or until the rice is completely tender.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Serve immediately, topped with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips and Tricks

• Even Cooking: Make sure the chicken pieces are similar in size so they cook evenly.
• Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the rice. It should be tender but not mushy.
• Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed.

How to Serve

This Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with:

• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing complement to this dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can cook the chicken and rice ahead of time and then reheat them with the sauce before serving.
• Storing: Store leftover chicken and rice in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the dish on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, you can use any type of rice you like, but I find that long-grain white rice works best for this dish. Other types of rice, such as brown rice or wild rice, may require different cooking times and liquid ratios.

Can I make this dish with boneless, skinless chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs would be a delicious alternative to chicken breasts in this recipe.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use other types of cheese, such as Gruyère, Asiago, or even a blend of Italian cheeses. Parmesan is a classic choice for this dish, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.

There you have it! A flavorful and easy-to-make Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice recipe. I hope you enjoy it!

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