Looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s easy to make and clean up? This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is perfect for busy nights when you want a comforting dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a creamy, flavorful dish with tender chicken, rice, and a rich Parmesan sauce, all made in one skillet. It’s simple, tasty, and sure to be a hit with the whole family!
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Nights
When you’re short on time, this one-pan creamy Parmesan chicken and rice is a lifesaver. You only need one skillet, so there’s less cleanup.
The recipe combines chicken, rice, and a creamy sauce, so you get a complete meal in one dish—no need to cook separate sides.
The steps are simple and easy to follow, even if you’re not an experienced cook. The ingredients are basic, and you might already have most of them in your kitchen.
Plus, it only takes about 40 minutes from start to finish, so you can enjoy a hearty, homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
You can also add veggies like peas, spinach, or broccoli to make it even more nutritious. It’s comforting, delicious, and perfect for feeding the whole family or meal prepping for the week.
If you’re looking for a stress-free dinner, this recipe has got you covered!
Tips for Perfectly Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Getting that creamy, dreamy Parmesan sauce is easier than you think! Here are some simple tips to make sure your dish turns out perfect every time:
- Make sure you cover the skillet well while the rice cooks. This keeps the heat and steam inside, helping the rice cook evenly and absorb all that delicious flavor.
- Give the rice a stir now and then as it cooks. This keeps it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and makes sure everything cooks evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check your chicken. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be fully cooked and safe to eat. This ensures your chicken is juicy and perfectly done.
Sides to Complete the Meal
Here are some simple ideas to round out your dinner:
- Fresh Salad – A crisp green salad is a perfect match. Toss together some lettuce, spinach, or arugula with a light vinaigrette. It adds a refreshing touch to balance the creamy flavors of the dish.
- Roasted or Steamed Vegetables – Roast some broccoli, carrots, or zucchini in the oven with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. The roasted veggies bring color and extra nutrients to your plate. If you’re short on time, steaming vegetables like green beans, peas, or asparagus is quick and easy.
- Garlic Bread – Warm, buttery garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce. Use it to soak up any leftover sauce in your skillet—so tasty!
- Fruit Salad – For a sweet and refreshing twist, serve a bowl of fresh fruit like berries, melon, or oranges on the side. It’s a nice way to end the meal.
Storage & Reheating Tips for Leftovers
If you have leftovers, don’t worry—they store and reheat well! Let the dish cool completely before storing it.
Put it in an airtight container and place it in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container.
When you’re ready to reheat, the microwave is the easiest option. Add a splash of chicken broth, cream, or water to keep the rice from drying out, then heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
If you prefer the stovetop, warm it over low heat in a skillet with a little liquid until it’s heated through.
Don’t overcook the chicken during reheating, as it can turn dry. With these simple tips, you can enjoy your creamy Parmesan chicken and rice again, just as tasty as the first time.
One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice uncooked
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden on both sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant.
- Add the rice to the skillet and stir for 2-3 minutes to lightly toast it.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. This is where the rice will cook directly in the flavorful liquid, which makes it tender and creamy. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, cover tightly, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Nutrition
Don’t Miss These:
Easy Japanese Dinner: Fluffy Omelet & Edamame Rice
Green Eggs, No Ham: Baked Eggs with Spinach, Leeks & Feta
Spice Up Dinner with South Indian Poached Eggs
Easy Chilaquiles for Dinner with Tangy Tomatillo Salsa
A Flavorful Twist on the Classic Spanish Tortilla Recipe
Golden Tomato Shakshuka with Goat Cheese for Easy Dinners
Quick Sesame Chicken Recipe to Simplify Your Dinner Routine
Seafood Dinner Recipe: Perfect Soft-Shell Crabs at Home
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.