If you’ve ever dreamed of a one-dish wonder that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, cheesy sauce, your dream just came true with the Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe. This dish brings together the incredible comfort of creamy Parmesan-infused sauce with the simplicity of cooking everything in a single pot, making your weeknight dinners not only hassle-free but downright delicious. The combination of savory chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and that luscious creamy Parmesan finish will have you swooning from the very first bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that this cozy dish is known for. From the buttery base to the fragrant spices, every element works in harmony.
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch pieces for quick, even cooking and tender bites.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps soften the onions for that perfect flavor base.
- 1 large onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth once sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (3 teaspoons): Provides aromatic warmth that elevates the dish.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds authentic Mediterranean flair.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds gentle heat and balances the creamy notes.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and seasoning.
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth: The cooking liquid that infuses the rice and chicken with savory goodness.
- 1 cup long grain white rice: Absorbs all the buttery, cheesy flavors perfectly without getting mushy.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the decadent creamy texture that makes the dish irresistibly comforting.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Brings sharp, salty richness and melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the onion
Start by heating butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted and shimmering. Toss in the diced onion and cook it gently for about 2 to 3 minutes until it softens and turns translucent. This base of sweet, tender onion sets the perfect stage for the bold flavors to come.
Step 2: Cook the chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet along with Italian seasoning, pepper, and salt. Stir frequently and cook for roughly 5 minutes, or until the chicken turns golden on the outside and starts to cook through. This step ensures the chicken stays juicy and gets that wonderfully appealing sear.
Step 3: Add the garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook with the chicken and onions for just one more minute. Garlic’s aroma will bloom during this brief cook time, giving the dish a warm, savory punch without any bitterness.
Step 4: Combine remaining ingredients and simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the rice. Bring everything to a boil to kickstart the cooking process, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for 17 to 20 minutes, or until the rice becomes tender and has absorbed almost all the liquid. This slow simmer melds the flavors beautifully while giving the rice that perfect, fluffy texture.
Step 5: Stir in cream and Parmesan cheese
Once the rice is tender, stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The sauce will instantly thicken into a luscious, creamy coating that hugs every grain of rice and piece of chicken. Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness and color.
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley over the top not only adds a vibrant green touch but also brightens the rich, creamy flavors with subtle freshness. For an extra layer of texture and flavor, you can add a light dusting of additional Parmesan cheese just before serving.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is a hearty meal all on its own, but pairing it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus creates a beautiful balance. Roasted carrots or a crisp cucumber salad also bring refreshing crunch that complements the creamy texture perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve this dish in beautiful individual shallow bowls and drizzle a bit of extra cream or a splash of good olive oil on top. You can also add sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms to the skillet in the final stages for a gourmet twist that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe taste even better the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled portions to freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, transfer the leftovers to a skillet or microwave-safe dish. Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream as needed to restore the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
You can swap in brown rice, but keep in mind it will take longer to cook—usually about double the time in a one-pot recipe. You may want to par-cook the brown rice separately to ensure perfect texture.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
Whole milk or half-and-half can work as lighter alternatives, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For dairy-free options, coconut cream can be a surprising but tasty swap.
Can I use thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs add a bit more flavor and remain wonderfully moist. Adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may need a couple of minutes more to cook through.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
No problem. Simply mix your own blend using dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. It won’t change the essence of the recipe, just adds an element of homemade flair.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Try adding crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions or a pinch of cayenne pepper with the Italian seasoning. A drizzle of hot sauce at the end can also bring a nice kick without overpowering the creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its simplicity, quick cooking time, and incredible flavor make it an instant favorite to keep in your weeknight rotation. Give it a try, and soon you’ll understand why it’s so easy to fall in love with every creamy, cheesy bite.
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Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is a comforting, easy-to-make meal that combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce all cooked together in one skillet for convenience and deliciousness.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (3 teaspoons)
Liquids and Dairy
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté onion: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent browning.
- Cook chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet along with Italian seasoning, pepper, and salt. Cook and stir the chicken until it turns golden on all sides, approximately 5 minutes.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant without burning.
- Combine remaining ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth and add the long grain white rice to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for 17-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Stir in cream and cheese: Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated and creamy. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a touch of color and freshness.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic.
- Make sure to cover the skillet properly during simmering to cook the rice evenly.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of chicken broth by 1/4 cup.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best taste and texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
