Description
This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice recipe is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that combines tender, seared chicken breasts with a rich and creamy rice cooked in Parmesan cheese and seasoned broth. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this all-in-one skillet meal blends savory Italian seasoning with garlic and paprika for a burst of flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Rice and Sauce
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare and season chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil is heating, season the chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for a flavorful base.
- Sear the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet and sear each side for 3-4 minutes until browned and golden. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to retain juices.
- Combine rice and liquids: In the same skillet, stir in the uncooked long-grain rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine all ingredients, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.
- Cook chicken and rice together: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the rice mixture. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow to cook for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked through and the rice is tender and creamy.
- Garnish and serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm directly from the pan.
Notes
- Ensure the skillet is well covered to trap steam and cook the rice evenly.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option but the sauce will be less rich.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture if preferred.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving, especially salt and pepper.
- Leftovers reheat well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
