Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice
Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with flavorful rice in a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering comfort food in just 30 minutes. Featuring juicy chicken and a buttery broth, this one-pot meal stands out with its simplicity and deliciousness, making it a go-to for families and gatherings alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic evenings.
- One Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan.
- Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of heavy cream and parmesan cheese creates a rich, satisfying flavor.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or herbs to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a larger batch for easy leftovers throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To make Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Provides ample space to cook all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your skillet’s surface.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions for the best flavor.
- Chef’s knife: Makes chopping chicken and vegetables quick and safe.
Ingredients
Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice – This deliciously creamy chicken and rice is one of the easiest one pot meals you will ever make! Juicy chicken and rice are cooked together in a buttery broth then mixed up with cream and parmesan cheese for a luscious 30 minute one pan dinner!
For the Chicken
- 1.5 Pounds Chicken Breasts, (Cut into 1 inch pieces)
- 4 Tablespoons Butter
- 1 Large onion, (Diced)
- 3 Cloves Garlic, (Minced (3 Teaspoons))
For Flavoring
- 2 Teaspoons Italian Seasoning
- 1/2 Teaspoon Pepper
- 1 Teaspoon Salt
For Cooking
- 2 1/2 Cups Chicken Broth
- 1 Cup long grain white rice
For Creaminess
- 1/2 Cup Heavy Cream
- 1/2 Cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Parsley for serving, (Optional)
How to Make Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until beginning to soften.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the diced chicken to the pan along with the Italian seasoning, pepper, and salt. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes until chicken is golden on all sides.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Add the garlic to the pan and cook for one more minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Step 4: Combine Broth and Rice
Add the chicken broth and rice to the pan. Stir everything together well.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium low. Cover with a lid and simmer for about 17-20 minutes until rice is completely tender.
Step 6: Finish with Cream
Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese until well combined. Serve immediately topped with parsley if desired.
Enjoy your creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice!
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice
Serving Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice can elevate your dining experience, making it both delicious and visually appealing. Here are some creative ideas on how to present this dish.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley – Garnish your dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Basil Leaves – Add torn basil leaves for a fragrant touch that complements the chicken.
On a Bed of Greens
- Spinach – Serve the chicken and rice over a bed of sautéed spinach for extra nutrients.
- Arugula – The peppery taste of arugula can enhance the creamy flavors of the dish.
Accompanied by Bread
- Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread pairs perfectly, allowing you to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Dinner Rolls – Soft dinner rolls can be served warm on the side, adding texture to your meal.
In Bowls
- Individual Bowls – Serve in individual bowls for a cozy, comforting presentation, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
- Layered Presentation – Layer the chicken and rice with vegetables in a bowl for an appealing look.
How to Perfect Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice
To achieve the best results with your Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for fresh chicken and herbs; they enhance flavor significantly.
- Adjust Cooking Time – Keep an eye on the rice; cooking times may vary based on type and freshness.
- Customize Seasoning – Feel free to tweak the seasoning according to personal preference for a unique flavor profile.
- Let it Rest – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice can complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:
- Steamed Broccoli – A simple side that adds crunch and balances out the creaminess.
- Roasted Asparagus – Drizzled with olive oil, roasted asparagus brings brightness to your plate.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes make an indulgent pairing with this delicious one pot meal.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn offers delightful pops of flavor alongside your chicken and rice.
- Grilled Zucchini – Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini adds a smoky element that complements the dish well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always use salt and pepper generously for the best taste.
- Overcooking the rice – Letting the rice cook too long can make it mushy. Follow the cooking time closely for perfectly tender rice.
- Not using enough liquid – Insufficient broth can lead to dry chicken and rice. Ensure you measure your chicken broth accurately for a creamy consistency.
- Cooking at too high a heat – Cooking on high heat can burn the ingredients. Maintain a medium-high heat for even cooking and flavor development.
- Neglecting to stir – Forgetting to stir occasionally can cause sticking. Stirring helps prevent burning and ensures even cooking throughout the dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Use within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best consumed within 2-3 months for quality.
Reheating Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop – Reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice.
What makes Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice so special?
This dish combines juicy chicken with perfectly cooked rice in a rich, creamy sauce, all made in one pot for easy cleanup!
Can I customize my Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas or spinach, or switch out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for different flavors.
How do I store leftovers of Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for 2-3 months.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or comfort food that warms your heart, this recipe fits the bill. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins!
Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice is the ultimate weeknight dinner that marries tender chicken with fluffy rice in a luscious, creamy sauce. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up this comforting dish that’s perfect for busy families or special occasions. The rich flavors of parmesan and heavy cream blend seamlessly with juicy chicken and savory broth, making it a satisfying meal everyone will love. With minimal cleanup required—thanks to the one-pot cooking method—this recipe is as practical as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2.5 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft.
- Add diced chicken, Italian seasoning, pepper, and salt to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add chicken broth and rice; stir to combine well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 17-20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese until fully incorporated. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
