One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution. This comforting meal combines tender chicken breasts, creamy rice, and a rich Parmesan sauce, all cooked together in a single skillet. With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and easy cleanup, it’s a perfect fit for busy households looking for delicious comfort food without the hassle.

What sets this dish apart is its balance of flavor and texture. Juicy, seasoned chicken breasts cook alongside long-grain white rice, which absorbs the savory blend of chicken broth, garlic, and onions. A generous helping of Parmesan cheese melts into the rice, creating a creamy, cheesy consistency that complements the tender chicken perfectly.

This one-pan meal delivers both convenience and satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding a family, preparing for a casual dinner with friends, or simply craving a cozy meal after a long day, One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a dish you’ll want to keep in regular rotation.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal cleanup: Everything cooks in one skillet, reducing dishes.
• Family-friendly: Creamy rice and juicy chicken appeal to kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Add vegetables, swap the cheese, or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.
• Comforting and hearty: Creamy Parmesan rice makes this a complete meal.
• Fast and convenient: From stovetop to table in about 40 minutes.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before cooking, gather all tools and ingredients. Having everything prepped ensures smoother cooking and prevents any interruptions.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep skillet with lid – Necessary to hold the chicken and rice while ensuring even cooking.
• Sharp chef’s knife – For clean, uniform cuts of chicken and vegetables.
• Cutting board – For safe and efficient chopping.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurement ensures the perfect rice-to-liquid ratio.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – For stirring without scratching your skillet.
• Meat thermometer – To check chicken for safe internal temperature.

Preparation Tips

• Season generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper, as they enhance the chicken and rice.
• Uniform chopping: Finely chopped onions cook evenly and blend into the creamy rice.
• Toast the rice: Briefly toasting the rice with aromatics adds a nutty depth of flavor.
• Cover tightly: A proper-fitting lid is essential for tender rice.
• Stir occasionally: Prevent rice from sticking to the pan’s bottom by giving it a gentle stir halfway through.

Ingredients List

• 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)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Season and Brown the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, stirring to prevent burning.

3. Toast the Rice

Stir in the rice, coating it in the oil and aromatics. Toast for 2 to 3 minutes to develop deeper flavor.

4. Add Liquids

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and scrape any browned bits from the skillet bottom.

5. Simmer with Chicken

Nestle the chicken breasts into the rice mixture. Cover the skillet tightly, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

6. Add Parmesan

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.Serving Suggestions

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is versatile enough to serve in casual family settings or slightly elevated for a cozy dinner with guests. Because it’s creamy and rich, it works beautifully with fresh garnishes and lighter sides to balance the meal.

For a simple weeknight dinner, serve this dish straight from the skillet with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top. A squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness that enhances the creamy Parmesan flavor. When serving for guests, you can plate each portion with a small sprig of herbs, freshly grated Parmesan, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a more elegant presentation.

Consider serving this dish family-style at the table. Place the skillet in the center and let everyone scoop their portion. This presentation highlights the rustic, comforting nature of the recipe and allows diners to get as much creamy rice or juicy chicken as they like.

For leftovers or meal prep, portion the rice and chicken into airtight containers. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to restore the creamy texture.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is relatively simple, certain missteps can lead to unevenly cooked rice, dry chicken, or a sauce that breaks. Avoiding these mistakes helps ensure your dish turns out perfect every time.

1. Skipping the Browning Step

Searing the chicken before adding the liquid layers in flavor. Browning also helps lock in moisture, keeping the chicken tender during simmering.

2. Using the Wrong Rice

Long-grain white rice works best. Short-grain or instant rice tends to become mushy, while brown rice requires longer cooking and more liquid.

3. Cooking with a Loose Lid

A tight-fitting lid traps steam, ensuring even cooking. If too much steam escapes, the rice can dry out before it’s fully cooked.

4. Overcrowding the Pan

If the chicken breasts are too close together, they steam rather than brown. For the best results, use a large enough skillet so each piece has room.

5. Not Stirring Occasionally

While the chicken cooks, it’s important to stir the rice once or twice. This keeps the grains from sticking to the pan and ensures even absorption of broth and cream.

6. Overcooking the Chicken

Chicken breasts can dry out if left in the pan too long. Use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken when it reaches 165°F (74°C).

7. Adding Parmesan Too Soon

Parmesan should be stirred in at the very end. If added too early, the cheese can clump or separate, especially in a high-heat environment.

8. Using Cold Cream

Bringing the heavy cream to room temperature before adding it prevents curdling and helps it blend smoothly with the broth.

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Side Dish Recommendations

Since One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is rich and creamy, pairing it with lighter sides balances the meal. Below are eight side dishes that complement the dish beautifully.

1. Garlic Butter Green Beans

Tender-crisp green beans sautéed with garlic and a touch of butter add freshness and texture, cutting through the creamy rice.

2. Simple Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Peppery arugula dressed with lemon juice and olive oil provides a bright, fresh contrast to the Parmesan richness.

3. Honey-Glazed Carrots

Slightly sweet and tender carrots balance the savory, cheesy flavors of the dish.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

The caramelized edges and slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts work well against the creamy Parmesan sauce.

5. Parmesan Roasted Asparagus

Roasting asparagus with a sprinkle of Parmesan ties the side directly to the flavors in the main dish, creating a cohesive meal.

6. Crusty Garlic Bread

A side of warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce left in the pan.

7. Creamy Cucumber Salad

A chilled cucumber salad with dill and Greek yogurt offers a cooling contrast to the warm, hearty chicken and rice.

8. Herb-Roasted Potatoes

If you want a heartier side, roasted potatoes with rosemary and thyme offer additional texture and savory goodness.

Expert Tips for Perfect One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Making One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is simple, but a few expert tips can help you take the dish from good to exceptional.

Use High-Quality Parmesan

The Parmesan cheese is one of the key flavor components. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides a richer flavor than pre-shredded varieties. Avoid shelf-stable Parmesan powder, which won’t blend into the sauce as smoothly.

Balance Your Liquid Ratio

The combination of chicken broth and heavy cream creates the perfect creamy texture. If you prefer a slightly lighter dish, you can reduce the cream and add a bit more broth. However, reducing the cream too much will impact the rich, velvety sauce.

Don’t Skip Browning the Chicken

Searing the chicken creates a flavorful golden crust that locks in moisture. It also adds savory depth to the rice since the browned bits left in the pan get incorporated into the cooking liquid.

Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor

To make this dish even heartier, consider adding vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or spinach directly into the skillet. They cook along with the rice, adding flavor and nutrition without extra dishes.

Use Long-Grain White Rice

Long-grain rice holds its shape well and absorbs the broth and cream without becoming mushy. If you substitute brown rice, you’ll need to add extra liquid and cooking time.

Check Chicken Temperature

To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent the rice from drying out, place a piece of plastic wrap directly over the rice before sealing the container.

Can You Freeze It?

Cream-based sauces can separate when frozen, so freezing this dish isn’t recommended for the best texture. If you do decide to freeze it, store portions in airtight containers and reheat gently to minimize separation.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, place the chicken and rice in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream. Stir gently until the rice is creamy and heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, adding a small spoonful of broth to prevent dryness. Cover the dish to trap steam and prevent the rice from hardening.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to be more forgiving if slightly overcooked. They also add a richer flavor to the dish.

What Other Cheeses Can I Use?

Parmesan provides a nutty, salty flavor, but you can substitute Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even Gruyère for a twist. Avoid cheeses that are too soft or melty, as they won’t incorporate well into the sauce.

Can I Make This with Brown Rice?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook and requires more liquid. Plan to add at least 1 extra cup of broth and increase the simmering time by 15 to 20 minutes.

How Do I Prevent the Rice from Sticking?

Use a well-seasoned skillet or non-stick pan. Stir the rice once or twice during cooking to keep it from sticking to the bottom.

Can I Add Vegetables?

Absolutely. Mushrooms, peas, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes can be stirred into the rice for extra texture and flavor.

Is This Dish Gluten-Free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. Always check your broth labels to be sure.

How Do I Keep the Chicken Moist?

Avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature. Remove the chicken from the skillet once it reaches 165°F and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to bring back the creamy texture.

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Conclusion

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the perfect answer to busy weeknights when you want something comforting, flavorful, and easy to clean up. With juicy chicken breasts, creamy Parmesan-infused rice, and the convenience of a single skillet, it’s a meal the whole family can enjoy.

This dish offers flexibility for customization, whether you add vegetables, swap out the cheese, or use chicken thighs instead of breasts. It’s a versatile recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.

With its simple preparation and hearty flavors, One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping leftovers for easy lunches, this dish delivers comfort and flavor every time.