Description
This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice is a comforting and flavorful meal featuring tender chicken pieces cooked with aromatic garlic and onions, creamy Parmesan cheese, and perfectly simmered rice all in a single skillet. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s an easy and satisfying dinner option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Aromatics
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add Rice: Stir in the uncooked long-grain white rice, making sure it is evenly mixed with the chicken and sautéed onions.
- Add Liquids and Herbs: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add dried thyme and dried parsley, stirring everything to combine well.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Incorporate Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it fully melts and is integrated into the creamy mixture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and add more salt and pepper if desired for seasoning balance.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a fresh touch and color.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less creamy.
- If you prefer a stronger Parmesan flavor, increase the cheese to 1 1/2 cups.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels.
- Covering the pan properly during simmering is crucial to cook the rice evenly.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables on the side.
