One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe

“There is no sincerer love than the love of food.” – George Bernard Shaw

For those who love food, nothing beats a homemade meal. This cheesy chicken recipe is a perfect example. It combines tender chicken, creamy Parmesan, and fluffy rice in one pan. It’s easy to make and ready in just 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.

This dish is simple yet delicious. Chicken pieces are cooked with white rice and a creamy sauce. The sauce is made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and spices. As it cooks, the flavors mix, creating a savory and cheesy taste that’s irresistible.

This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy. Each serving has 46 grams of protein and only 300 calories. It’s a great choice for those who care about their health. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and clean up, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal.

Key Takeaways:

• One-pan recipe featuring tender chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, and fluffy rice
• Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights
• Effortless cooking with minimal prep work and cleanup
• Nutritious meal with 46 grams of protein and only 300 calories per serving
• Versatile dish that can be customized with different cheeses and add-ins

Introduction to One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Are you looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal? This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice recipe is perfect. It’s a quick fix for a gourmet meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy families.

The Perfect Comfort Food

This dish is the ultimate comfort food. It has tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice. It’s sure to be a hit with your family. The recipe includes:

• 1.5 pounds of chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup of long-grain white rice
• 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream
• 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese

These ingredients make a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

A Quick and Easy Family-Friendly Meal

This recipe is quick and easy to make. In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready. Plus, cleaning up is a breeze since it only uses one pot.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy family or just want a comforting meal, this recipe is perfect. Try it and see why it’s a favorite among home cooks.

Ingredients for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Getting the right ingredients is crucial for a tasty one-pan creamy parmesan chicken & rice dish. This meal combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce. It’s a comforting dinner that will be loved by all.

Chicken Breasts

The main ingredient in this recipe is lean, boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cut into small pieces, the chicken cooks fast and evenly. This makes every bite tender and juicy. Each serving has 33.8 grams of protein, great for a balanced diet.

Long Grain White Rice

Long grain white rice is the base for the creamy sauce and chicken. As it cooks, it soaks up the flavors of the chicken and seasonings. Each serving has about 31.6 grams of carbohydrates, giving you energy.

Heavy Cream and Parmesan Cheese

The sauce is made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The cream makes it rich and creamy, while the Parmesan adds a nutty flavor. A serving has 19.2 grams of fat, with Parmesan also adding calcium.

Seasonings

Seasonings like garlic and Italian seasoning enhance the dish’s flavors. Garlic adds sweetness and antioxidants. Italian seasoning brings a Mediterranean taste. Salt and pepper balance the flavors, making the meal irresistible.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Making this creamy rice dish with parmesan-crusted chicken is easy. Just follow these steps to make a meal everyone will love.

1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent.
2. Season chicken thighs with paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Add to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides.
3. Stir in minced garlic, baby bella mushrooms, pearl onions, peas, and carrots. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in chicken broth and jasmine rice. Add bay leaves and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Remove the bay leaves and stir in half and half and grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and the cheese melts.
6. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.

This recipe makes 4 servings, each full of flavor and nutrients. Here’s the nutritional info per serving:

The combination of tender chicken, creamy rice, and savory Parmesan cheese makes this dish an instant family favorite.

Leftovers can be stored in an air-tight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to a skillet and heat over medium heat until warmed through. This way, your creamy rice dish with parmesan-crusted chicken will taste just as good as the first time.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken and Rice

Making a tasty one-pan low-carb dinner of creamy parmesan chicken and rice is simple. Just follow these easy tips to get perfect chicken and rice every time. This dish will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Cutting Chicken into Uniform Pieces

It’s key to cut your chicken into the same size pieces for even cooking. This recipe needs 1 pound of chicken breast cut into 1-inch cubes. This way, all chicken cooks evenly, avoiding overcooked or undercooked pieces.

Stirring the Rice for Even Cooking

Stir the rice often to stop it from sticking and to cook evenly. You’ll use 1 cup of long grain rice and 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth. Stirring ensures the rice cooks perfectly, with each grain just right.

Adjusting the Cooking Time

The cooking time might vary based on your rice type. This recipe is for long grain white rice, which cooks in 20-25 minutes. If your rice is different, check the package for the right cooking time to get the perfect texture.

By using these tips and the right ingredients, you can make a delicious low-carb dinner everyone will enjoy. This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for quick weeknight meals.

Variations and Customizations for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

This family-friendly recipe is super versatile. You can make it your own with a few tweaks. Here are some tasty variations to try:

Swap the Protein

Chicken is the main star, but you can swap it for other proteins. Try shrimp for a seafood twist or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just make sure your protein is cooked through.

Change the Cheese

Parmesan cheese gives this dish a rich flavor. But you can try other hard cheeses too. Asiago or Pecorino Romano are great substitutes, offering a unique taste while keeping the dish savory.

Add Veggies

Make this meal healthier by adding veggies. Stir in baby spinach or kale in the last few minutes. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers for more flavor and texture.

For a healthier option, use brown rice instead of white rice. Brown rice takes longer to cook and needs more liquid. Adjust the recipe as needed.

With these easy variations, you can make this creamy Parmesan chicken and rice dish your own. Get creative and enjoy it with your family!

Serving Suggestions for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

There are many ways to serve this tasty One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice. Pair it with a fresh garden salad or a mix of steamed vegetables. This adds a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken and rice.

For a fancy touch, serve it with a glass of white wine. Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay works well. Their crisp acidity and fruity notes complement the creamy Parmesan sauce beautifully.

For a more filling meal, add warm garlic bread or roasted asparagus. The garlic bread’s savory aroma blends with the dish’s herbs. Meanwhile, the asparagus adds color and a fresh, earthy taste.

To make it healthier, add more veggies to the dish. Stir in baby spinach or kale towards the end. Or, sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas with the rice for extra nutrients.

However you serve this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, it’s a hit. Its tender chicken, creamy rice, and savory Parmesan make it a comforting favorite. Everyone will want more.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

When you make this family-friendly recipe, you might have leftovers. The good news is that it stores and reheats well. This makes it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

Refrigerator Storage

If you have leftovers, let the dish cool down first. Then, put it in an airtight container. This creamy parmesan chicken and rice can stay in the fridge for 3-4 days. It’s great for meal prepping or saving time on busy nights.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze this family-friendly recipe for up to 2 months. Divide the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers or bags. Label them with the date and store them in the freezer. When you want to eat it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Tips

To reheat your leftovers, you have a couple of options:

• Microwave: Put a single serving in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of chicken broth to moisten the rice. Cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
• Stovetop: Put the leftovers in a covered skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally and add chicken broth if the rice gets dry. Heat until warm, about 5-7 minutes.

With these easy storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy this delicious recipe many times. It saves you time and effort in the kitchen.

Nutritional Benefits of One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

The One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice recipe is not only tasty but also adaptable for a healthier diet. With a few tweaks, you can turn this dish into a nutritious meal that everyone will love.

Each serving has about 385 calories, making it a good choice for a filling dinner. The chicken provides a lot of protein, helping you feel full. Plus, the spinach adds vitamins and minerals like vitamin C and iron.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider these changes:

• Choose skinless chicken breasts to cut down on fat.
• Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk for less fat.
• Add more veggies like broccoli, zucchini, and carrots. This boosts fiber and nutrients.
• Use brown rice for more fiber and complex carbs.
• Watch your portion sizes for a balanced diet.

With these tweaks, you can enjoy a low-carb dinner that’s both tasty and good for you. The mix of lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich veggies will keep you energized and happy. This one-pan meal is great for anyone looking to eat healthier.

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice: A Weeknight Dinner Winner

This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice recipe is a top choice for effortless cooking on weeknights. It’s a one-pot meal that saves time without losing flavor or quality.

Time-Saving Benefits

This dish is quick to prepare because everything cooks in one pan. It’s great for a family dinner or leftovers for lunch the next day. It makes 4 servings.

The Instant Pot makes cooking even easier. It’s a multi-functional appliance that simplifies the process. Its sensors ensure safe and perfect cooking, adding rich flavors to your meal.

Minimal Cleanup

This one-pot meal also means less cleanup. Since everything cooks in one pan, you won’t have to wash many dishes. This saves you time and lets you enjoy your meal more.

With ingredients like chicken, rice, cream, and Parmesan, you get a meal that’s both tasty and healthy. It has 450 calories per serving, offering a good mix of protein, carbs, and fats.

Reader Testimonials and Reviews

Our readers love this one-pan creamy parmesan chicken and rice recipe. It’s a hit for its amazing taste and simple prep. Many fans say it’s their go-to dish.

I never thought a one-pan meal could taste so good! This creamy parmesan chicken and rice dish is now a regular in our dinner rotation. It’s so easy to make, and my whole family loves it!

People like how you can change it up to fit your taste and what you have on hand. You can use chicken thighs, breasts, or even leftover chicken. It’s great for all kinds of budgets and tastes.

Readers praise the clear steps and exact amounts. It makes cooking easy, even for beginners. The creamy sauce, parmesan, white wine, and spices all come together perfectly.

One happy reader exclaimed, “I never thought a one-pan meal could be so satisfying! The creamy parmesan sauce is to die for, and the rice cooks to perfection. This recipe is a total game-changer!”

Some say the rice takes about 20 minutes to cook. But most agree it’s worth the wait for the delicious result.

Related Recipes and Meal Ideas

If you liked the One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, you’ll love these easy chicken dinners and creamy rice dishes. They offer the same great taste and ease, perfect for any day or special event.

One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Shrimp and Rice

This dish combines shrimp, garlic, and Parmesan cheese with rice for a tasty meal. It’s ready in 30 minutes, great for seafood fans who want a quick dinner.

• 1.5 lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons minced garlic, divided
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 3/4 cup dry white wine
• 1 1/2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken stock
• 2/3 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon freshly minced parsley

Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Chicken Rice Casserole

This casserole has chicken, mushrooms, and spinach in a creamy rice bed. It’s topped with Parmesan sauce and white wine, making it a family hit.

We tend to eat a lot of chicken during the week, and this Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Chicken Rice Casserole has become a regular in our meal rotation. It’s so easy to make and always turns out delicious!

These recipes are great examples of easy chicken dinners and creamy rice dishes made in one pan. They’re easy to clean up and perfect for weeknights. Try them and find your new favorite meal!

Conclusion

One-pan creamy parmesan chicken & rice is a tasty and simple dish. It’s a family favorite because it’s easy to make. The recipe has tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a creamy parmesan sauce, all in one skillet.

It cooks in just 40 minutes. You’ll need chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. It’s great for busy weeknights when you want comfort food without the effort.

This recipe is also very flexible. You can add your favorite veggies, change the protein, or adjust the seasonings. Plus, there are tips for cooking the chicken and rice perfectly. This way, you can make a dish like a restaurant’s at home.

So, if you need a quick, tasty, and satisfying meal, try this recipe. It’s easy to clean up, saves time, and tastes amazing. Remember, leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them with a bit of chicken broth or water to keep the creamy texture. Enjoy!