One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, cheesy sauce in a single skillet. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe simplifies dinner without compromising on flavor.
The chicken is seared to golden perfection, locking in moisture, and then cooked alongside rice in a creamy mixture of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a hint of herbs.
The result is a luscious, savory meal that feels indulgent yet is easy to prepare. Using only one pan not only reduces cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring every bite is infused with richness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
You’ll love the One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice recipe for its simplicity, flavor, and convenience. This dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce all in one pan, minimizing cleanup.
The golden sear on the chicken adds a delicious crispy texture, while the creamy sauce keeps everything moist and flavorful. It’s a comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with savory goodness.
Whether you’re a busy parent or someone who loves a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience. Plus, it’s easily customizable – adjust the seasoning to your taste, or add extra herbs or vegetables for a personal touch.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for families or a cozy dinner for two. With a mix of savory flavors and creamy texture, you’ll find yourself craving this dish again and again.
One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Description
One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a simple, flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken, tender rice, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, all cooked in a single pan.
The chicken is seared to golden perfection, locking in moisture and flavor, while the rice absorbs the savory broth and creamy sauce. The dish is seasoned with garlic, onion, and herbs, making each bite deliciously aromatic.
Easy to prepare and quick to clean up, this meal is perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. Serve with fresh herbs or extra Parmesan for added flavor and a stunning presentation.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken:
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Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme (optional).
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Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
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Add the chicken to the pan and sear for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
@primaverakitchen -
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Cook the Aromatics
In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened (about 2-3 minutes).
@dirtygourmet
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Add Rice & Liquids:
Stir in the rice, then add chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
@castironchaos
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Add Chicken & Cook:
Place the seared chicken back into the pan. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, until the rice is tender and chicken is cooked through (165°F or 74°C internal temperature).
@chasety
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Finish the Dish:
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and rice, stir gently to combine, and allow the cheese to melt. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
@zestplate
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 550kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 25g39%
- Saturated Fat 12g60%
- Cholesterol 150mg50%
- Sodium 700mg30%
- Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 40g80%
- Calcium 250 mg
- Iron 2 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe: Tips and Serving Tricks
A one-pan meal like Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is an ideal dish for a quick, satisfying, and flavorful dinner with minimal cleanup. This recipe combines juicy chicken, savory Parmesan, and tender rice cooked all in one pan, making it not only delicious but also convenient. Below are some tips and serving tricks to ensure your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients and Preparation Tips:
- Use Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken Thighs or Breasts: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used, bone-in, skin-on thighs yield a juicier and more flavorful dish. The skin helps to lock in moisture during cooking, ensuring the chicken stays tender. If you prefer breasts, ensure they’re not overcooked to avoid dryness.
- Seasoning Is Key: Make sure to season both the chicken and the rice adequately. For the chicken, a simple blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder works wonders. For the rice, you can add herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil to elevate the flavor profile. Don't skimp on the seasoning!
- Sear the Chicken: Searing the chicken in the pan before adding the rice gives it a golden, crispy crust, enhancing the flavor. Don't move the chicken around while it's cooking; let it brown undisturbed to develop a good sear.
- Use the Right Rice: Long-grain white rice or basmati works best for this recipe, as it cooks evenly and doesn’t get too sticky. If you’re using a different type of rice (like brown rice), make sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
- Cooking Liquid Balance: The right balance of liquid is crucial for a creamy texture. A combination of chicken broth and heavy cream will create the rich, creamy sauce. Adjust the ratio to suit your desired level of creaminess—more cream for a richer dish and more broth for a lighter one.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: When adding the rice to the pan, make sure it's spread out evenly for consistent cooking. Overcrowding the pan can cause uneven cooking, and the rice may end up undercooked in some spots.
- Let the Dish Rest: After cooking, let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid and helps redistribute the juices in the chicken, keeping it tender.
Serving Tricks:
- Top with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, basil, or thyme adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich creaminess of the dish. The herbs also provide a burst of color, making the meal visually appealing.
- Add Extra Parmesan: For an added Parmesan punch, grate extra cheese on top before serving. This creates a melty, cheesy layer that complements the creamy sauce.
- Serve with a Side Salad: Since this dish is rich, pair it with a light side salad. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will cut through the richness and add a refreshing element to the meal.
- Serve in a Cast-Iron Skillet: For a rustic presentation, serve the dish straight from the pan, especially if you used a cast-iron skillet for cooking. This adds an aesthetic touch and keeps the dish warm for longer.
- Pair with Garlic Bread or Crusty Baguette: A side of garlic bread or a crusty baguette works wonderfully to mop up the creamy sauce left on the plate. It adds a satisfying crunch and makes for a complete meal.
- Make it a Family-Style Meal: If serving a group or family, consider presenting the dish on a large platter. Arrange the chicken and rice elegantly, and garnish with extra Parmesan and herbs for a family-style serving. This way, everyone can help themselves, making the meal feel special.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a comforting, all-in-one meal that strikes the perfect balance between richness and simplicity. With tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and nestled into a bed of creamy, cheesy rice, this dish delivers homestyle flavor in every bite.
The parmesan-infused sauce, enriched with garlic, broth, and cream, soaks into the rice as it cooks, creating a luscious, velvety texture that feels both indulgent and wholesome. It’s a true one-pan wonder that transforms everyday ingredients into a satisfying, cohesive meal.
What makes this recipe especially appealing is how it streamlines the cooking process. Everything cooks in a single skillet—no extra pots, no complicated steps, and minimal cleanup—making it ideal for busy weeknights when time and energy are limited.
Despite its simplicity, the end result tastes like something you’d order at a cozy bistro. It’s rich without being overwhelming, cheesy without being heavy, and full of comforting warmth that makes it suitable for any season.
This dish is also incredibly adaptable. You can swap in chicken thighs for more flavor, add spinach, mushrooms, or peas for a veggie boost, or use brown rice for a nuttier taste and added fiber.
It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables, making it a complete and balanced meal. Leftovers reheat well and often taste even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld.
One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is more than just a time-saver—it’s a dish that delivers comfort, convenience, and crave-worthy flavor in every forkful. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe is bound to become a regular favorite in your weekly rotation. It’s proof that one pan really can do it all.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe with boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they tend to dry out more easily than thighs. To avoid this, be careful not to overcook them, and consider adding a little extra liquid to the pan to keep the chicken moist.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. For the Parmesan cheese, try using a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a similar flavor.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, peas, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time so the vegetables don't overcook. Add them in during the last few minutes of cooking, or sauté them with the chicken at the start.
