If you’re on the hunt for a dinner recipe that feels fancy but is actually a breeze to pull together, you’ve landed in the right place. One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice is the ultimate weeknight hero: tender chicken breasts nestle in a bed of fluffy rice, all coated in a dreamy, cheesy sauce. Every spoonful delivers that comforting blend of savory, garlicky goodness and rich creaminess that feels like a warm hug at the end of a busy day. It’s also incredibly forgiving—no need to juggle multiple pots or worry about timing every element to perfection. You’ll sear your chicken, sauté your aromatics, and let everything simmer together, transforming simple pantry staples into an elegant, satisfying meal.
I still remember the first time I made this dish for a cozy date night at home—you know, the kind where you want to impress without turning your kitchen into a war zone. As the rice absorbed the chicken broth and the skillet started to bubble, the kitchen filled with inviting scents that made both of us smile. When I finally drizzled in the heavy cream and stirred in that fresh Parmesan, the sauce turned luxuriously silky, clinging to each grain of rice and each juicy bite of chicken. A sprinkle of parsley added a pop of color and brightness, and suddenly, this humble one-pan wonder was the star of the evening. Now, whether I’m feeding a crowd or just craving comfort for one, this recipe is my go-to staple.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN ONE-PAN CREAMY PARMESAN CHICKEN AND RICE
Before we dive into the cooking steps, let’s take a moment to get familiar with the stars of this recipe. Each ingredient contributes to the final dish’s flavor, texture, and overall appeal, working together to create a comforting, harmonious meal—all in just one pan.
- Olive oil
Serves as the cooking fat to sear the chicken and sauté the aromatics, adding a subtle fruity note and preventing sticking.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Provide lean protein with a mild flavor that soaks up the seasonings and stays juicy when seared and simmered.
- Salt and pepper
The foundational seasoning duo that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and rice without overpowering them.
- Garlic powder
Infuses an extra layer of mellow garlic flavor, complementing the fresh garlic and giving depth to the sauce.
- Onion powder
Boosts the savory profile alongside fresh onions, ensuring every bite has a rounded, aromatic taste.
- Chopped onion
Adds sweetness and texture, softening as it cooks to meld perfectly with the garlic and rice.
- Minced garlic
Brings that unmistakable punch of garlicky aroma and flavor, blooming in the hot oil before the rice joins in.
- Long-grain white rice
Cooks up light and fluffy, absorbing the broth and cream to deliver tender, separate grains in every mouthful.
- Chicken broth
Acts as the cooking liquid for the rice, infusing it with savory depth and keeping everything moist.
- Heavy cream
Creates a luscious, velvety sauce that coats the rice and chicken, elevating the texture and taste.
- Parmesan cheese
Delivers salty, nutty richness, melting into the cream to thicken the sauce and add that irresistible umami kick.
- Fresh parsley
Finishes the dish with a fresh, herbaceous pop of color and flavor, balancing the richness of the sauce.
HOW TO MAKE ONE-PAN CREAMY PARMESAN CHICKEN AND RICE
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s walk through how this all comes together in one skillet. This method ensures maximum flavor with minimal cleanup—perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed dinners at home.
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season each chicken breast liberally with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, making sure every side is coated for maximum flavor.
2. Sear the chicken breasts in the hot skillet until beautifully golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and builds a flavorful crust. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and soft and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma, about 3 minutes—scraping up any tasty brown bits from the pan.
4. Stir in the uncooked rice, making sure each grain is coated with the onion and garlic mixture. This helps to lightly toast the rice and develop extra nutty flavor.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer, using a spatula to deglaze the pan by scraping up any stuck-on bits—those little brown pieces carry a ton of savory taste.
6. Reduce the heat to low, nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet on top of the rice, and cover. Let it simmer undisturbed for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
7. Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce is luxuriously creamy and the cheese is fully melted.
8. Remove the skillet from the heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and let it rest for a few minutes before digging in. This gives the flavors time to meld and the sauce to thicken just right.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR ONE-PAN CREAMY PARMESAN CHICKEN AND RICE
When it comes to serving this comforting one-pan masterpiece, you’ve got plenty of options to elevate the experience. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or feeding hungry kiddos, these suggestions will ensure every plate looks and tastes as delicious as possible. Feel free to mix and match based on what’s in your pantry or garden—this dish is wonderfully adaptable!
- Bright Green Salad
Toss together crisp mixed greens, cucumber ribbons, and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess of the skillet dinner and add a refreshing contrast in every bite.
- Steamed Seasonal Vegetables
Lightly steam broccoli florets, green beans, or snap peas until just tender. Season with a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of sea salt to bring out their natural sweetness and provide a crisp, healthy side.
- Crusty Garlic Bread
Slice a baguette, brush with garlic-infused butter, and toast until golden brown. The crunchy exterior and garlicky interior make the perfect vehicle for mopping up every last drop of that creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Spice Booster
For those who crave a little heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle a touch of chili oil on top. The spicy kick enhances the savory depths of the dish and gives an exciting tingle to each mouthful.
HOW TO STORE ONE-PAN CREAMY PARMESAN CHICKEN AND RICE
Leftovers from this dish are just as dreamy as the first serving, and proper storage will keep that creamy texture and robust flavor intact. Whether you’re planning to enjoy it the next day or stash some in the freezer for later, follow these guidelines to make sure every revisit is as satisfying as the original feast.
- Refrigerate in an Airtight Container
Allow the dish to cool slightly, then transfer to a sealed, airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce and prevent dryness.
- Freeze Individual Portions
Divide cooled servings into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a little extra liquid.
- Reheat Gently
To preserve the creamy consistency, warm leftovers over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or milk until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Separate Components (Optional)
If you anticipate longer storage, consider keeping the chicken aside and storing the rice and sauce together. This way, you can slice fresh chicken and reheat it separately to maintain its tenderness and prevent overcooking.
CONCLUSION
Wrapping up our culinary journey, One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice stands out as the perfect blend of ease, flavor, and elegance. From the initial sizzle of seasoned chicken hitting the hot skillet to that final swirl of heavy cream transforming everything into a heavenly sauce, every step feels like a mini celebration in the kitchen. You’ll love how straightforward the process is—no juggling pans, no elaborate prep—and yet the result tastes like you spent hours crafting it. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this recipe ticks all the boxes: it’s beginner-friendly, beginner-friendly, ready in about 45 minutes from prep to plate, and delivers a satisfying 600 calories per serving that feel wholesome and indulgent in equal measure. Don’t forget that you can print this article and save it for later use—there’s even a handy FAQ section below to answer any lingering questions you might have.
I hope you’ve enjoyed reading as much as I’ve enjoyed sharing this recipe. If you try it out, or if you have tweaks of your own—like adding spinach or swapping in juicy chicken thighs—I’d love to hear all about it. Feel free to leave comments, questions, or feedback; I’m always here to help you troubleshoot or celebrate your kitchen wins. Happy cooking, and here’s to many cozy, delicious dinners with minimal fuss and maximum flavor!
One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Description
Experience tender chicken and fluffy rice enveloped in a rich Parmesan sauce, all cooked effortlessly in one pan for a fuss-free yet elegant meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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Sear the chicken breasts in the skillet until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
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Stir in the uncooked rice, ensuring that all grains are coated with the onion and garlic mixture.
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Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, deglazing the pan by scraping any bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet.
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Reduce the heat to low and return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them on top of the rice. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is fully cooked through.
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Once cooked, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
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Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Note
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you prefer a bit of heat.
- For a more robust flavor, consider using a mixture of wild and white rice.
- Feel free to add mushrooms or spinach for additional texture and nutrition.
- Chicken thighs can also be used instead of breasts for a juicier option.
