One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe

My family and I are always on the lookout for delicious, weeknight-friendly meals that don’t require a mountain of dishes. Let me tell you, this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice recipe from Eatwell101 has become an absolute staple in our home for all those reasons and more! From the moment the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic mingled with the savory chicken and herbs filled the kitchen, I knew we were in for a treat. The creamy texture is unbelievably comforting, and the parmesan adds that perfect salty, cheesy punch that makes every bite irresistible. Even my pickiest eater devoured it, asking for seconds (which is always a win!). It’s truly a restaurant-quality dish made simple enough for any home cook, and the fact that it all comes together in just one pan? Pure weeknight dinner magic. If you’re craving a flavorful, comforting, and easy meal, look no further – this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients: What You’ll Need for Delicious One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice

The beauty of this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice lies not only in its simplicity but also in the quality of its ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and achieving that perfect creamy texture. Let’s break down each ingredient, discussing why it’s essential and how to choose the best for your dish.

• 1 1/2 lb (650g) Chicken Breasts, Diced: Chicken breast is the star protein of this dish, offering a lean and versatile base to absorb all the wonderful flavors. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease of preparation. When selecting your chicken, look for plump, pink breasts with minimal fat. Fresh, high-quality chicken will always yield the best results in terms of flavor and texture. Dicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces ensures it cooks quickly and evenly in the one pan, melding perfectly with the rice and creamy sauce. Consider using organic or free-range chicken for enhanced flavor and ethical sourcing, if available.
• 4 Tablespoons Butter: Butter is the foundation of flavor and richness in this recipe. It’s used to sauté the onions and chicken, building a flavorful base and contributing to the overall creamy texture of the dish. Unsalted butter is recommended as it allows you to control the saltiness of the final dish. The fat in butter also helps to brown the chicken beautifully, adding depth of flavor through the Maillard reaction. Don’t skimp on the butter – it’s essential for that luxurious, creamy result! For a richer flavor, you could even use browned butter to start, although this adds an extra step.
• 1 Teaspoon Paprika: Paprika is more than just a pretty color; it adds a subtle smoky sweetness and warmth to the chicken. It enhances the savory flavors and complements the parmesan beautifully. Sweet paprika is typically used in recipes like this, providing a mild, fruity note. If you prefer a bit more heat, you could use smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor, or even a pinch of hot paprika for a subtle kick. Make sure your paprika is relatively fresh for the best flavor – spices lose their potency over time.
• 1 Large Onion, Diced: Onion forms the aromatic base of this dish. As it sautées in butter, it releases its sweet and savory flavors, creating a foundation upon which the other ingredients build. A yellow onion is a good all-purpose choice, offering a balanced flavor that isn’t too overpowering. Dice the onion into small, even pieces to ensure it cooks quickly and evenly. Sautéing the onion until translucent is crucial – this step softens its texture and mellows its sharpness, allowing its sweetness to come through.
• 3 Cloves Garlic, Minced: Garlic is another essential aromatic ingredient, adding a pungent and savory depth to the creamy chicken and rice. Fresh garlic is always preferred for its vibrant flavor. Mince the garlic finely to release its aromas quickly and ensure it cooks evenly without burning. Add the garlic towards the end of sautéing the onions and chicken to prevent it from burning, as burnt garlic can become bitter. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove for an even bolder flavor.
• 2 Teaspoons Italian Seasoning: Italian seasoning is a convenient blend of dried herbs that adds a classic Mediterranean flavor profile to the dish. It typically includes oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. This herb blend complements the chicken, parmesan, and creamy sauce beautifully, adding complexity and depth of flavor. Ensure your Italian seasoning is relatively fresh for the best aroma. If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, you can create your own blend using individual dried herbs, focusing on oregano, basil, and thyme.
• Salt and Fresh Cracked Pepper: Salt and pepper are the fundamental seasonings that enhance all the other flavors in the dish. Salt brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients and balances the richness of the cream and parmesan. Freshly cracked black pepper adds a pungent bite and aroma. Season generously at each stage of cooking – seasoning the chicken, onions, and the final dish – to ensure every layer of flavor is well-developed. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process.
• 2 1/2 Cups (750ml) Chicken Stock: Chicken stock is the liquid base that cooks the rice and creates the creamy sauce. It adds a savory depth of flavor that water simply cannot replicate. Low-sodium chicken stock is recommended to control the overall saltiness of the dish. Using a good quality chicken stock will significantly enhance the flavor of your creamy chicken and rice. You can also use homemade chicken stock for an even richer and more flavorful result. Ensure the stock is heated before adding it to the pan to maintain the cooking temperature and speed up the process.
• 1 Cup White Rice (Long Grain or Basmati): White rice, either long grain or basmati, is the perfect choice for this creamy dish. Long grain rice cooks up fluffy and separate, while basmati rice offers a slightly more aromatic and nutty flavor. Both varieties absorb the flavorful chicken stock and creamy sauce beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying base for the chicken. Rinsing the rice before cooking is generally not necessary for this recipe as we want some starch to be released to contribute to the creamy sauce. However, if you prefer a less starchy result, you can rinse the rice briefly.
• 1/2 Cup (125ml) Heavy Cream: Heavy cream is the key ingredient that transforms this dish from simple chicken and rice into a luxuriously creamy and decadent meal. It adds richness, smoothness, and a velvety texture to the sauce. Heavy cream has a higher fat content than milk or half-and-half, which is essential for achieving that thick, creamy consistency without curdling. Add the heavy cream at the very end of cooking to maintain its richness and prevent it from becoming too thick or separating.
• 1/4 Cup Grated Parmesan: Parmesan cheese is the final flavor booster, adding a salty, nutty, and umami-rich element to the creamy chicken and rice. Freshly grated parmesan cheese is always preferred over pre-grated for its superior flavor and texture. Parmigiano-Reggiano is the highest quality parmesan, but Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can also be used for a slightly different flavor profile. Stir in the parmesan at the very end, along with the heavy cream, to melt it into the sauce and create a cheesy, flavorful finish. Reserve some extra parmesan for garnishing before serving.
• Parsley for Garnish, Optional: Fresh parsley is an optional but highly recommended garnish. It adds a pop of fresh, herbaceous flavor and a vibrant green color that brightens up the dish visually. Chop the parsley finely and sprinkle it over the creamy chicken and rice just before serving. Other fresh herbs like chives or basil can also be used as garnishes for a slightly different flavor profile.

Instructions: Cooking Your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice to Perfection

This recipe is designed for ease and efficiency, bringing together all the components in a single pan for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor infusion. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own delicious One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice:

1. Season the Chicken for Flavor Depth: Begin by preparing your chicken breasts. Dice them into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes, ensuring they will cook evenly and quickly. In a bowl, toss the diced chicken with 1 teaspoon of paprika. Ensure each piece is coated with paprika for an even distribution of flavor and color. Set aside the seasoned chicken on a plate while you prepare the other ingredients. This allows the paprika to penetrate the chicken slightly, enhancing its flavor.
2. Build the Aromatic Base: Place a large skillet – preferably cast iron or heavy-bottomed for even heat distribution – over medium-high heat. Add 4 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and let it melt completely and shimmer slightly. Once melted, add the diced onion to the skillet. Cook the onion for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and softened. This step releases the onion’s sweetness and creates the first layer of flavor for the dish. Don’t rush this step; properly sautéed onions are key to a flavorful base.
3. Brown the Chicken and Infuse with Herbs: Add the seasoned diced chicken to the skillet with the softened onions. Season generously with 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, salt, and fresh cracked pepper. Stir well to combine the chicken with the onions and seasonings. Cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring regularly, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides. Browning the chicken not only adds color but also develops deeper, savory flavors through the Maillard reaction. Ensure the chicken is cooked through on the outside but not fully cooked inside at this stage.
4. Add Aromatics and Simmer to Creamy Perfection: Reduce the heat slightly to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and onions. Cook for just one more minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly. Pour in 2 1/2 cups of chicken stock and add 1 cup of white rice (long grain or basmati) to the skillet. Stir everything together to ensure the rice is evenly distributed in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet tightly with a lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and completely tender, and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during the simmering process to ensure the rice cooks properly in the steam. Check for doneness by gently pressing a grain of rice – it should be soft and not chalky.
5. Create the Creamy Parmesan Finish: Once the rice is cooked and tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Remove the lid and gently stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese. Stir until the cream and parmesan are fully melted and incorporated into the rice, creating a luscious, creamy sauce that coats the chicken and rice beautifully. Taste the creamy chicken and rice and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper to your preference. Remember that parmesan cheese is salty, so taste before adding more salt.
6. Serve and Garnish: Serve the One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice immediately while it’s hot and creamy. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and extra grated parmesan cheese for garnish, if desired. The fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note and visual appeal, while extra parmesan enhances the cheesy flavor. Enjoy your delicious and easy one-pan meal!

Nutrition Facts: A Balanced and Satisfying Meal

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals can be helpful for making informed dietary choices. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice recipe. Please note that these are estimations and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

• Serving Size: 1 Serving (Recipe Yields 4 Servings)
• Estimated Calories per Serving: Approximately 550-650 calories

Approximate Macronutrient Breakdown per Serving:

• Protein: 40-50 grams (from chicken and parmesan)
• Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams (primarily from rice)
• Fat: 25-35 grams (from butter, heavy cream, and chicken)

Important Considerations:

• These are estimates: Actual nutritional values can vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used.
• Portion Control: Be mindful of your portion sizes to manage calorie intake.
• Dietary Adjustments: This recipe can be modified to adjust macronutrient ratios. For example, using less heavy cream or substituting with milk will reduce fat content, while increasing chicken portion will increase protein.
• Balanced Meal: This dish provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a satisfying and relatively well-rounded meal.

For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators, inputting the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time: Quick and Easy Dinner Solution

One of the greatest advantages of this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice is its speed and ease of preparation. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal comes together in a flash.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Dicing chicken: 2 minutes
  • Dicing onion and mincing garlic: 3 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Sautéing onions and chicken: 8 minutes
  • Simmering rice and chicken: 17 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes

From start to finish, you can have a delicious and satisfying creamy parmesan chicken and rice dinner on the table in just about 30 minutes. The minimal prep time and quick cooking process make it an ideal choice for those evenings when you need a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve: Elevating Your One-Pan Meal

While this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice is delicious on its own, you can easily elevate your meal with thoughtful serving suggestions and accompaniments. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

• Classic Side Salad:
  • A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the creamy chicken and rice.
  • Consider adding mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon-herb vinaigrette.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables:
  • Serve alongside steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for added nutrients and texture.
  • Roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini also complement the dish beautifully. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.
• Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread:
  • Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
  • Garlic bread adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the parmesan and herbs.
• Garnishes for Extra Flavor and Visual Appeal:
  • Fresh Parsley: As mentioned before, chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
  • Extra Parmesan Cheese: Offer extra grated parmesan cheese at the table for those who want an even cheesier experience.
  • Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and cuts through the richness.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick.
• Wine Pairing:
  • A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the creamy richness of the dish.
  • A light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir could also complement the flavors.

Additional Tips for Perfect One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice

To ensure your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Tip 1: Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure you use a large enough skillet (at least 12-inch diameter) to avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking the chicken and rice. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning, and uneven cooking. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure proper browning.
• Tip 2: Use Quality Chicken Stock: The flavor of your chicken stock significantly impacts the final dish. Opt for a good quality chicken stock or homemade stock for the best flavor. Low-sodium stock allows you to control the saltiness of the dish better.
• Tip 3: Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Seasoning is crucial. Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning throughout the cooking process. Everyone’s taste preferences differ, so don’t be afraid to add more seasoning if needed to achieve your desired flavor profile. Remember to taste again after adding the parmesan and heavy cream, as these can affect the overall seasoning.
• Tip 4: Control the Heat During Simmering: Once you bring the mixture to a boil and reduce the heat to simmer, ensure the heat is low enough to gently simmer the rice without scorching the bottom of the pan. If the liquid is absorbing too quickly and the rice is still not cooked, add a little more chicken stock, about 1/4 cup at a time, and continue simmering until the rice is tender.
• Tip 5: Serve Immediately for Best Creaminess: This dish is best served immediately after cooking when it’s at its creamiest and most flavorful. The creamy sauce can thicken as it cools. If you need to hold it for a short period, keep it warm over very low heat, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of chicken stock or cream to loosen it up if it becomes too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Your Creamy Chicken and Rice Queries Answered

Have questions about making this delicious One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

• Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
  • A: Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Brown rice typically takes about 40-50 minutes to cook. You’ll need to increase the chicken stock to approximately 3-3.5 cups and simmer for a longer duration until the brown rice is tender. Keep an eye on the liquid level and add more stock if needed to prevent the rice from drying out before it’s cooked. The texture will also be slightly different, with brown rice being chewier than white rice.
• Q2: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream to reduce fat?
  • A: While you can use milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream, the result will be less creamy and rich. Milk and half-and-half have lower fat content and may not thicken as nicely as heavy cream, potentially resulting in a thinner sauce. If using milk, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) towards the end of cooking to help thicken the sauce slightly. Be mindful that the creamy texture will be significantly altered.
• Q3: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
  • A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of this dish. You can add vegetables like frozen peas (stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking), sliced mushrooms (sautéed with the onions), chopped bell peppers (sautéed with onions), or broccoli florets (added during the last 10 minutes of simmering). Adjust cooking times accordingly depending on the type of vegetable you add. Heartier vegetables like carrots or potatoes should be added earlier to ensure they cook through.
• Q4: How do I store leftovers of Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice?
  • A: Store leftover Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of chicken stock or water when reheating to loosen the sauce, as the rice can absorb moisture and the sauce may thicken upon refrigeration.
• Q5: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
  • A: To make a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with firm tofu (cubed and pan-fried until golden) or sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or portobello). Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. The rest of the recipe can remain the same. For a vegan version, you would need to substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter, the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream, and omit the parmesan cheese or use a vegan parmesan alternative.

Enjoy making and savoring this incredibly easy and delicious One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice! It’s a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. ❤️

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