One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice [40 Minutes]
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice. This dish combines tender chicken breasts, perfectly cooked rice, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce, all prepared in a single pan for easy cleanup. Bursting with flavor and simplicity, it’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll fall in love with this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to make and packed with flavor. The creamy Parmesan sauce envelops the tender chicken and fluffy rice, creating a harmonious blend of savory goodness. Plus, the convenience of cooking everything in one pan means less time spent on cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness: If you prefer juicier meat, substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
- Toast the Rice: Before adding the liquid, toast the rice in the pan for a few minutes to enhance its flavor.
- Grate Your Own Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and provides a richer taste compared to pre-grated varieties.
- Deglaze the Pan: After browning the chicken, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or chicken broth to lift the flavorful bits from the bottom.
- Cover the Pan Tightly: Ensure the pan is covered tightly while simmering to cook the rice evenly and prevent it from drying out.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Low-Carb Version: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice to reduce the carbohydrate content.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil to customize the flavor profile.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve this creamy Parmesan chicken and rice with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the creamy sauce beautifully. For a heartier option, pair it with garlic bread or a side of roasted asparagus.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, reheat in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts as brown rice takes longer to cook.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat before serving, though the texture of the rice might change slightly.
Is it possible to make this dairy-free? Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
What other cheeses can I use instead of Parmesan? You can use Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
Can I add vegetables to this dish? Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers can enhance the nutrition and flavor of the dish.
How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy? Ensure the pan is covered tightly and avoid overcooking. Also, use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used and may provide a juicier result.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick? Add a little more chicken broth or cream to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free? Ensure that your chicken broth and any other ingredients are gluten-free, as rice and the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How can I add more flavor to the dish? Incorporating herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil can add extra layers of flavor. You can also deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the broth and cream.
One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Enjoy a quick and delicious dinner with our One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice, featuring tender chicken and creamy rice, all cooked in a single pan for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
- 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)
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Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and brown on both sides until golden. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Toast the Rice: Add rice to the skillet and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook Chicken and Rice: Return chicken to the skillet, cover tightly, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Finish with Parmesan: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 634Total Fat: 40gSaturated Fat: 20gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 17gCholesterol: 193mgSodium: 1094mgCarbohydrates: 19gFiber: 0gSugar: 3gProtein: 48g
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