Name: One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice; 2 ½ cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 cups fresh spinach (optional); 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

There’s something magical about a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and ease into one pan. One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the perfect recipe for those busy weeknights when you crave a hearty, home-cooked meal without the mess. The creamy texture, the savory Parmesan flavor, and the juicy chicken come together with tender rice to create a meal that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

I first stumbled across this recipe while experimenting with pantry staples, and it’s become a lifesaver in my weekly rotation. With everything cooking together in a single pan, you’ll love how this dish simplifies dinner prep. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Get ready to fall head over heels for your new go-to dinner. One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice isn’t just delicious—it’s practical, budget-friendly, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Quick and Easy: From prep to plate, this recipe takes less than 40 minutes. Perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still want something satisfying.
Minimal Cleanup: Because everything cooks in one pan, you’ll spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.
Family-Friendly: Creamy rice and flavorful chicken are always a hit, making this an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Versatile Ingredients: This recipe uses kitchen staples you likely already have, and it’s easy to adapt based on what’s in your fridge or pantry.

Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Let’s explore what makes this recipe so special.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient contributes to the rich flavors and creamy texture of this comforting meal.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best because they stay tender and juicy. If you prefer, chicken breasts are a suitable substitute, but be mindful of cooking time to avoid dryness.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is ideal for this recipe as it cooks evenly with the chicken and absorbs all the delicious flavors. Avoid using instant rice as it can become mushy.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty, savory kick to the creamy sauce. Pre-grated options work too, but freshly grated offers better flavor and texture.
Chicken Broth: This forms the base of the creamy sauce and adds depth to the dish. Use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
Heavy Cream: To create a luscious, creamy consistency. For a lighter version, you can swap it with half-and-half or whole milk.
Garlic and Onion: These aromatics infuse the dish with a rich, savory flavor that complements the Parmesan and chicken beautifully.

No fancy equipment is needed—just a large, deep skillet with a lid. Make sure it’s big enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably!

How To Make This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Creating this mouthwatering dish is as simple as it is satisfying. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice.

Prep the Chicken: Season your chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for added flavor. Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to enhance the flavor.
Cook the Rice: Stir in the rice, ensuring it’s coated in the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice. Cover and cook over low heat for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Add Cream and Parmesan: Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Finish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, cheesy perfection!

The entire process takes about 35-40 minutes from start to finish, and the results are nothing short of spectacular.

Storage Options

One of the best things about this dish is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making the reheated dish just as delicious.
Freezer: Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the creamy consistency. Heat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 30-second intervals.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious, making it easy to adapt to your preferences or dietary needs.

Add Veggies: Stir in some frozen peas, chopped spinach, or diced bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
Change the Protein: Swap the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different twist. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to give the dish a little kick.
Go Gluten-Free: Ensure your broth and Parmesan cheese are gluten-free, and you’re good to go.
Herb Variations: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be used in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make this dish your own!

Conclusion

With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice, One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a recipe that delivers on every level. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family without breaking a sweat.

So grab your skillet and give this recipe a try—you might just find it becoming a regular in your dinner rotation. Let me know how you like it in the comments below!