One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Enjoy a quick and flavorful dinner with One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a comforting meal that comes together in just one skillet for minimal cleanup. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this recipe shines with its creamy texture and delightful flavors.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Rice
• For Aromatics
• For Seasoning
• For Garnish
• How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
• Step 3: Toast the Rice
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Cook Chicken and Rice
• Step 6: Finish with Parmesan
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Pair with Fresh Salad
• Add Some Vegetables
• Include Bread Options
• Garnish Ideas
• How to Perfect One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Best Side Dishes for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Reheating One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other types of cheese?
• How do I make this dish healthier?
• What can I serve with One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice?
• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less washing up afterward, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a creamy sauce that enhances the chicken and rice.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: This meal appeals to both adults and kids, ensuring everyone will enjoy their dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, you’ll need the right tools to ensure everything cooks perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for even cooking of chicken and rice without overcrowding.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and easy.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the right balance of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Rice

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Aromatics

• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and brown on both sides until golden. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add the rice to the skillet and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to coat it with the oil and aromatics.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Cook Chicken and Rice

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cover tightly with a lid, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Serving One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice can elevate your dining experience. This creamy, flavorful dish pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its taste and presentation.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a fresh contrast.
• Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine and tangy Caesar dressing complement the creamy chicken beautifully.

Add Some Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Steamed broccoli is vibrant and provides a nutritious crunch alongside the creamy dish.
• Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus adds a savory element that pairs well with the rich flavors of the chicken and rice.

Include Bread Options

• Garlic Bread: Soft garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Warm dinner rolls offer a delightful addition to your meal.

Garnish Ideas

• Chopped Parsley: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: Squeezing lemon over the dish brightens up the flavors and adds zest.

How to Perfect One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

To make your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice even better, consider these tips for achieving perfect results every time.

• Bold seasoning: Ensure you season both the chicken and rice well. This will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs, good quality Parmesan cheese, and homemade chicken broth for richer flavors.
• Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on the rice as it cooks. Overcooking can lead to mushiness.
• Rest before serving: Let the skillet sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps flavors meld together more effectively.

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Best Side Dishes for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Enhance your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice meal by pairing it with delicious side dishes. These options balance flavors while keeping your dinner interesting.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic provide comfort and richness.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the main dish.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies offers a healthy alternative that is both filling and flavorful.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings a touch of sweetness to your plate, making it a family favorite.
5. Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach with olive oil adds vibrant color and nutrition to your meal.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad serves as a sweet complement that cleanses the palate after each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are a few mistakes that can impact your dish’s success.

• Skipping the Seasoning: Many people forget to season the chicken adequately. Always season both sides with salt and pepper for maximum flavor.
• Not Browning the Chicken: Failing to brown the chicken properly can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Take your time to achieve a golden crust.
• Ignoring Rice Toasting: Skipping the rice toasting step can lead to blandness. Toasting enhances its flavor and ensures better texture.
• Overcrowding the Skillet: If your skillet is too crowded, cooking will be uneven. Ensure there’s enough space for each ingredient to cook properly.
• Cooking on High Heat: Using too high heat can burn the rice or undercook the chicken. Always follow medium-low heat for simmering.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

• Freeze in a suitable freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it tightly.

Reheating One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat over low-medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice that may help you while cooking.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I make this dish healthier?

Consider using low-fat cream or reducing the amount of cheese. You could also add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrients.

What can I serve with One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

If using brown rice, adjust the cooking time and liquid since it requires longer cooking than white rice.

Final Thoughts

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is not only quick and simple but also offers rich flavors that everyone will love. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or swapping proteins as desired. Give it a try for an easy weeknight dinner!

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