Creamy Parmesan One-Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Creamy Parmesan One-Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a rich, cheesy sauce all in one skillet, making it an easy dinner that never compromises on taste. Every bite offers a luscious blend of creamy Parmesan goodness with subtle hints of garlic and thyme, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Parmesan One-Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of creaminess, flavor, and texture you crave.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity note and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
- Butter: Brings richness and helps create that silky sauce.
- Chicken breasts or thighs: Tender pieces provide juicy protein and absorb flavors well.
- Onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- Garlic: Infuses the dish with its unmistakable aroma and warmth.
- Long grain white rice: Toasting it slightly ensures a fluffy, separate texture.
- Chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that cooks the rice and adds savory notes.
- Heavy cream: Essential for that luxurious, creamy consistency.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Packs the dish with sharp, nutty flavor and melts into the sauce perfectly.
- Dried thyme: Offers an earthy herbal touch to balance the richness.
- Salt and black pepper: Season to taste, enhancing every component.
- Frozen peas: Bring a pop of color and a hint of sweetness.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Brightens up the dish with freshness and a splash of green.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan One-Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil and butter together in a large skillet or deep sauté pan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes until they develop a lovely golden-brown color and are nearly cooked through. This initial browning builds intense flavor and ensures juicy, tender chicken in the final dish.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these aromatics for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant. This is where the foundation of flavor deepens, adding a gentle sweetness and warmth that complements the creamy base perfectly.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Stir in the uncooked long grain white rice and cook it for just a minute. This toasting step adds a subtle nuttiness and prepares the rice to absorb the cooking liquids evenly, ensuring the final texture is light and fluffy instead of mushy.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then season with dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir and bring it gently to a boil. This rich liquid mixture is what will cook the rice and meld all the flavors together.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes. Stir once or twice during cooking to prevent the rice from sticking and help it cook evenly. By the end of this stage, the rice should be tender and the majority of the liquid absorbed into a creamy sauce.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan and Peas
Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and frozen peas. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts and the peas are heated through, adding both creaminess and a vibrant pop of color to the dish. Remove from heat and, if you like, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness.
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan One-Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is an easy garnish to brighten this dish visually and flavor-wise, but you can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or freshly ground black pepper just before serving. A light drizzle of good olive oil can add a silky finish that elevates every bite.
Side Dishes
This recipe is so satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables can provide a perfect contrast of textures. Lightly steamed broccoli or a tangy cucumber salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully and adds a refreshing balance to the creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to dress up this homestyle meal for guests or weeknight family dinners, serve it in individual bowls topped with a sprig of fresh herb or a wedge of lemon for squeezing. You can also plate it alongside crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce, creating a delightful mix of crunch and creaminess.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow leftovers to cool to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This Creamy Parmesan One-Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe stays delicious for up to 3 days and actually benefits from resting, allowing the flavors to meld even better.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of the rice might change slightly after freezing, but the comforting creaminess and savory flavors will hold up well.
Reheating
When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the mixture seems too thick or dry, restoring that perfect creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just note brown rice will require more liquid and a longer cooking time, around 40 to 45 minutes. Adjust the broth accordingly and keep the pan covered as it simmers to cook the rice through properly.
What if I don’t have heavy cream on hand?
You can substitute with half-and-half or full-fat milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to help thicken the sauce. The dish might be a bit less rich, but still deliciously creamy.
Can I swap out the chicken for another protein?
Sure! Turkey or even firm tofu can work here. Just make sure to adjust cooking times depending on the protein’s texture and size of pieces to avoid over- or undercooking.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prepping. Portion it out into containers, and you’ll have a wholesome, reheatable dinner ready for busy days. Just remember the reheating tips to keep it creamy.
What other veggies can I add instead of peas?
Feel free to get creative! Broccoli florets, spinach, mushrooms, or even diced bell peppers can be stirred in towards the end of cooking to add nutrients, colors, and flavors that you love.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough how cozy and satisfying this Creamy Parmesan One-Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is. It’s a brilliant combination of simplicity and indulgence, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a fuss-free comfort meal that never disappoints. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to recipes that feels both special and effortlessly delicious.
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Creamy Parmesan One-Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This creamy Parmesan one-pot chicken and rice recipe is a comforting and easy-to-make dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken pieces are sautéed with onions and garlic, then simmered with rice in a flavorful mixture of chicken broth and heavy cream. Parmesan cheese and peas are stirred in at the end for a rich, cheesy finish. Ready in just 35 minutes, this all-in-one meal offers a hearty, satisfying option for family meals or quick dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Rice and Liquids
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Seasonings and Cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat the fat and cook chicken: In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 4–5 minutes until lightly browned and mostly cooked through.
- Sauté aromatic vegetables: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
- Toast the rice: Stir in the uncooked rice and cook for 1 minute, allowing it to toast slightly and absorb the flavors.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer covered: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 18–20 minutes. Stir once or twice during cooking until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish with cheese and peas: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and frozen peas. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted and peas are heated through.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the pan from heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to speed up cooking by skipping the initial chicken sauté step.
- Swap peas with broccoli or spinach for variation.
- Try using brown rice instead of white rice, but increase cooking time and liquid accordingly.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving for added brightness and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
