Oh boy, do I have a delightful recipe for you today! One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience! I first stumbled upon this beauty during my university days when I was trying to impress a special someone with my culinary skills. Spoiler alert: it worked! Now, every time I prepare this dish, it takes me back to those cozy evenings, sharing stories and laughter while devouring this creamy goodness.
What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is. One pan means less cleanup—a win for my busy weeknights! Plus, the combination of savory chicken, creamy Parmesan, and fluffy rice makes it a dish everyone will love. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this creamy delight!
What’s in One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice?
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! These juicy proteins cook up beautifully and soak in all the rich flavors of the sauce. I prefer chicken breast for its lean protein, but you can use thighs if you crave a bit more richness.
Olive Oil: This golden liquid not only adds flavor but helps to sear the chicken perfectly. I always use extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is key! A dash of salt and a crack of black pepper bring out all the flavors we’re working with.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These two are game-changers! They add depth and that aroma that fills your kitchen with deliciousness. No need to chop—just sprinkle and go!
Long-Grain White Rice: Perfectly fluffy and complements the creaminess of the dish. Basmati or jasmine rice works like a charm too!
Chicken Broth: Using broth instead of water really amps up the flavor of the rice. You could go homemade, but a good quality store-bought broth is a lifesaver in a pinch!
Heavy Cream: This is where the magic happens! It turns a simple dish into creamy comfort food heaven. Low-fat options are available if you’re feeling adventurous, but I say go for the full creamy experience!
Grated Parmesan Cheese: The real MVP! It adds that cheesy goodness that melds perfectly with the cream and provides a rich, savory flavor.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings the dish to life. If you have fresh herbs, throw them in for an extra burst of flavor!
Fresh Parsley: For garnish, brightens up the dish and adds a fresh taste. Plus, it looks pretty!
Is One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Good for You?
Ah, the eternal question in cooking! This dish can definitely fit into a balanced diet. The **chicken breasts** provide lean protein, which is great for muscle repair and satisfaction. The **rice** offers carbohydrates for energy, making it a perfect option after a long day!
However, I do want to mention that it is a bit richer than your average chicken and rice dish, thanks to the **heavy cream** and **Parmesan cheese**. If you’re watching your calorie intake or prefer a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half, or even nut milk for a vegan twist (although it will change the flavor profile significantly). Remember, everything in moderation, right?
What You’ll Need
– 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Black pepper, to taste
*Serves 4.*
How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
1. In a large skillet or pan over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the rice and toast it lightly for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow to cook uncovered for about 10 minutes until the rice absorbs most of the liquid.
5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture. Cover and let simmer for an additional 5 minutes to warm the chicken through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper before serving.
Tips for Deliciousness!
Feeling adventurous? Try adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture! If you’re in the mood for some zing, a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can brighten it all up. Also, feel free to adjust the consistency of the sauce; if you want it creamier, add more cream!
And if you ever have leftovers (which you might not, as this dish is always a hit!), they make fantastic next-day lunch options. Just a quick reheat, and you’re golden—comfort food just waiting to be devoured again!
I truly hope you give this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice a shot! It’s such a delightful, cozy meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Let me know how it turns out when you whip it up, and feel free to share your own twists on this recipe! Happy cooking!
