If you’re looking for a meal that’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights, this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is exactly what you need. Juicy, tender chicken breasts cooked with savory, creamy rice and finished with Parmesan cheese — all made in a single pan for easy cleanup. This dish is packed with flavor and requires minimal effort, making it ideal for a fuss-free, comforting dinner.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, variations, and serving suggestions to help you master this delicious one-pan meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
1. One-Pan Simplicity
Everything cooks in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want minimal dishes.
2. Creamy and Flavorful
The combination of Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and seasoned chicken creates a dish that’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor.
3. Quick and Easy
This meal comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a great option for a fast, satisfying dinner.
4. Family-Friendly
Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors and creamy texture of this dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
5. Versatile
Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using different herbs and spices. This recipe is easily adaptable to your tastes.
Ingredients for One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into cutlets)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese for topping
- Lemon wedges for a burst of freshness
Looking for more one-pan recipes? Check out this creamy chicken carbonara for another quick and easy meal idea.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season and Sear the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Rice
- Stir in the uncooked rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring to coat it in the oil and aromatics.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Add the Cream and Chicken
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the rice is creamy.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and add the fresh spinach (if using).
- Cover and cook for another 5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the spinach is wilted.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious one-pan meal!
For another comforting chicken dish, try this easy chicken casserole for a satisfying dinner option.
Serving Suggestions
1. Fresh Salad
Pair the creamy chicken and rice with a light green salad for a refreshing contrast.
2. Roasted Vegetables
Serve alongside roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for added nutrients and crunch.
3. Garlic Bread
A slice of buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy rice and sauce.
4. Steamed Vegetables
Simple steamed carrots or peas make an easy and healthy side dish.
For another great side idea, try these savory garlic mushroom skewers for an added burst of flavor.
Recipe Variations
1. Add Vegetables
Incorporate peas, carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a nutrient boost.
2. Use Brown Rice
Substitute brown rice for a healthier option. Increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure the rice is fully cooked.
3. Make it Spicy
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
4. Dairy-Free Option
Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
5. Protein Swaps
Swap the chicken for shrimp, pork chops, or even tofu for a different protein option.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
- Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing.
Reheating
- Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore creaminess.
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warm.
Tips for Perfecting Your One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
1. Properly Season the Chicken
For maximum flavor, make sure to generously season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Allowing the chicken to sit for a few minutes after seasoning helps the flavors absorb more fully.
2. Sear the Chicken for Extra Flavor
When searing the chicken, let it develop a golden-brown crust. This caramelization adds depth and enhances the overall taste of the dish. Avoid moving the chicken too much while it’s searing to achieve the perfect crust.
3. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and provides a richer flavor compared to pre-shredded versions. For best results, use a block of Parmesan and grate it yourself.
4. Toast the Rice
Lightly toasting the uncooked rice in the skillet before adding the broth gives it a nutty flavor and helps it maintain a firmer texture. Just stir the rice in the hot oil for 1-2 minutes until it becomes slightly translucent.
5. Adjust the Creaminess
If you prefer a richer texture, add an extra splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of butter when finishing the dish. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
Healthier Version of One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Looking for a healthier version of this dish? Here are a few easy modifications:
- Use Brown Rice: Swap white rice for brown rice to add extra fiber and nutrients. Note that you’ll need to increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes.
- Reduce the Cream: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or low-fat milk for a lighter option.
- Add More Vegetables: Include vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for extra vitamins and minerals.
- Lean Protein: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or opt for chicken tenders to keep the dish lower in fat.
- Low-Sodium Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content.
How to Make It a Complete Meal
While this dish is satisfying on its own, you can round it out with these simple additions:
1. Fresh Side Salad
A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the creamy chicken and rice.
2. Roasted Vegetables
Pair it with oven-roasted asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy side that adds texture and flavor.
3. Garlic Bread
Serve with warm garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls for a comforting touch.
4. Steamed Veggies
Quickly steam some broccoli, peas, or carrots for an easy, nutritious side.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Tips
This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Here’s how to make it ahead of time:
1. Cook the Entire Dish
Prepare the chicken and rice according to the recipe. Let it cool completely before transferring it to meal prep containers.
2. Portion Out Individual Servings
Divide the dish into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners.
3. Reheat with Care
When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to keep the rice creamy. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Storage and Freezing Guide
Refrigerating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing
- To Freeze: Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- To Thaw: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating Instructions
- Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore creaminess.
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring each time to ensure even heating.
For more freezer-friendly meal ideas, try this creamy chicken with spinach Parmesan for another quick and comforting option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Instant Rice?
It’s best to use long-grain rice for this recipe, as instant rice can become mushy. If you do use instant rice, reduce the cooking time significantly.
2. How Do I Keep the Chicken Juicy?
Avoid overcooking the chicken. Sear it just until golden brown and let it finish cooking with the rice. This keeps it tender and juicy.
3. Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes! Ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free and substitute the flour (if using for thickening) with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch.
4. Can I Add Mushrooms?
Absolutely! Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for added flavor and texture.
5. What’s the Best Type of Parmesan to Use?
Use freshly grated Parmesan Reggiano for the best flavor and creaminess. Pre-shredded Parmesan can be used in a pinch but may not melt as smoothly.
Final Thoughts: The Perfect Weeknight Dinner
This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a recipe you’ll want to add to your regular meal rotation. With its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and savory rice, it’s a dish that checks all the boxes: easy, delicious, and satisfying. Plus, the one-pan method means minimal cleanup — a huge win for busy households!
Whether you’re cooking for the family, meal prepping for the week, or just need a comforting meal after a long day, this dish delivers every time. For more easy dinner recipes, check out this hearty chicken casserole for another satisfying option.
Enjoy your creamy, one-pan masterpiece! ️