Description
Make this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice for a quick and comforting dinner! Featuring tender chicken, creamy Parmesan-infused rice, and a rich sauce, this easy weeknight meal is packed with flavor and ready in 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic and Toast the Rice: In the same pan, cook minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the rice and toast for 1-2 minutes.
- Simmer the Rice: Add chicken broth and heavy cream, stir, and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook on low for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Chicken and Cheese: Return the chicken to the pan. Stir in Parmesan, Dijon mustard (if using), and paprika. Simmer for 5 more minutes.
- Optional: Add Spinach: Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
- Try Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or tofu.
- Boost Vegetables: Add peas, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.
- Spicy Variation: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or cayenne.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: main dish
- Method: One-Pan Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: creamy parmesan chicken, one-pan meal, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, comfort food