One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Enjoy a quick and flavorful dinner with this one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breasts nestled in creamy, cheesy Parmesan rice. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting dish comes together in a single skillet for easy prep and cleanup.
Servings: 4
Calories: 620kcal
Ingredients
- 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)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and brown on both sides until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the rice to the skillet and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to coat the grains with the oil and aromatics.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the rice mixture. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Ensure the skillet is tightly covered during cooking to allow the rice to cook evenly.
Stir the rice occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and garlic.