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One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

  • Post category:Lunch

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Introduction

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a delicious, comforting meal that brings together tender chicken, creamy rice, and a rich parmesan sauce in a single pan. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, as it requires minimal cleanup while delivering maximum flavor. The combination of garlic, parmesan, and heavy cream creates a velvety texture that is both satisfying and indulgent.

This dish has roots in classic Italian cooking, where parmesan cheese and cream-based sauces are widely used. However, it has evolved into a popular American comfort food known for its simplicity and flavor.

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

  • One-Pan Convenience – Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
  • Creamy & Comforting – The combination of parmesan and cream makes it incredibly rich and flavorful.
  • Protein-Packed & Filling – Chicken provides essential protein, making it a well-balanced meal.
  • Customizable – Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and variety.

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 small onion (finely chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook until soft.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

  1. Stir in the uncooked rice and toast it slightly for 1-2 minutes.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine.
  3. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cream & Cheese

  1. Once the rice is tender, pour in the heavy cream.
  2. Stir in the parmesan cheese and mix well until creamy.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and mix everything together.
  2. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through.
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Cooking Tips & Mistakes to Avoid

Tips:

  • Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and meltability.
  • Let the rice simmer on low heat to avoid burning.
  • Stir occasionally to prevent rice from sticking to the pan.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Using pre-cooked rice – It won’t absorb flavors as well as raw rice.
  • Skipping the toasting step – Toasting rice adds depth to the dish.
  • Adding cream too early – If you add cream before the rice is cooked, it can separate.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
  • Pair with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay for an elevated dining experience.
  • Add steamed broccoli or asparagus for extra nutrition.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

  • Chicken – High in protein, supports muscle growth and repair.
  • Parmesan Cheese – Rich in calcium for strong bones.
  • Garlic – Known for its immune-boosting properties.
  • Olive Oil – A heart-healthy fat with anti-inflammatory benefits.
  • Rice – Provides essential carbohydrates for energy.

Interesting Facts About This Dish

  • The one-pan cooking method is popular worldwide for its efficiency and convenience.
  • Parmesan cheese originates from Italy’s Parma region, dating back over 900 years.
  • Creamy rice dishes like this share similarities with Italian risotto, though risotto is cooked differently.

Quick Recipe Summary

  1. Season & cook chicken in a pan, then set aside.
  2. Sauté onion & garlic, then toast the rice in the same pan.
  3. Add chicken broth and simmer until rice is tender.
  4. Stir in heavy cream & parmesan cheese until creamy.
  5. Return the chicken, mix well, and serve with fresh parsley.

Final Thoughts

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a meal that offers comfort, ease, and rich flavor. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal for loved ones, this dish is sure to please. With its creamy texture and savory parmesan goodness, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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