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
Scale
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
