One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice: A Flavorful Family Dinner

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious dinner that the whole family will love, then look no further than this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice recipe. This dish combines tender chicken breasts, creamy Parmesan sauce, and fluffy rice, all cooked together in one pan for a hassle-free meal. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or any time you crave comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The creamy sauce envelops the chicken and rice, creating a comforting dish that is packed with flavor. Plus, cooking everything in one pan means fewer dishes to wash—who doesn’t love that? This recipe is perfect for families, and it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices.

Ingredients

For the Dish:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
• 3 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup frozen peas or spinach
• Sliced mushrooms
• Cherry tomatoes, halved

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Add Onion and Garlic: In the same pan, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

1. Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the rice, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
2. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

1. Add Cream and Cheese: Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and well combined. If you're adding frozen peas or spinach, toss them in at this stage.
2. Return the Chicken: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the pan, cover, and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Serve: Once everything is heated through and the sauce is creamy, remove the pan from the heat.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will elevate the flavors of this dish.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables to make this dish even healthier.
• Watch the Cooking Time: Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your chicken breasts to ensure they’re cooked through but not dry.

Pairing Suggestions

This creamy chicken and rice dish pairs well with:

• A side salad with a light vinaigrette
• Steamed broccoli or green beans for a pop of color
• Garlic bread for a touch of indulgence

Conclusion

This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a comforting, delicious meal that’s easy to prepare. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. So gather your ingredients, whip up this creamy delight, and watch it become a new family favorite!