One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Featured in Easy Chicken Recipes.

Needed an easy dinner and this chicken and rice totally saved me! Just threw everything in one pan and let it cook. The rice got so creamy from the chicken broth and cheese. Added some frozen peas at the end for color. My kids actually cleaned their plates which never happens lately. Best part was only having one pan to wash after. Perfect for busy nights when you still want real dinner.```
Mina cooking in her kitchen
Updated on Thu, 09 Jan 2025 18:08:29 GMT
A close-up of tender chicken breasts served over creamy rice, garnished with chopped parsley. Pin it
A close-up of tender chicken breasts served over creamy rice, garnished with chopped parsley. | lastminrecipes.com

The Best One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken Recipe

This one-pan creamy parmesan chicken has become my favorite comfort food recipe. Juicy chicken breasts nestled in perfectly cooked rice all wrapped in the most amazing parmesan cream sauce. I love how everything cooks together creating layers of flavor while keeping cleanup super simple.

Why This One-Pan Wonder Works

The magic of this one-pan creamy parmesan chicken happens as everything cooks together in that rich savory sauce. The rice soaks up all those amazing flavors while the chicken stays perfectly tender. It's the kind of meal that feels special but doesn't keep you in the kitchen all night.

What You'll Need

  • Chicken Breasts: They get so tender in this creamy sauce.
  • Rice: Long grain white rice works perfectly here.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Fresh grated makes all the difference.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds amazing flavor to the rice.
  • Heavy Cream: Makes everything perfectly creamy.
  • Aromatics: Fresh onion and garlic create the flavor base.
A skillet contains golden-brown chicken breasts served over creamy rice, garnished with chopped parsley. Pin it
A skillet contains golden-brown chicken breasts served over creamy rice, garnished with chopped parsley. | lastminrecipes.com

Let's Cook Together

Start With Chicken
Season those breasts well get them golden brown then set aside.
Build The Base
Cook your onions and garlic until they smell amazing.
Rice Gets Nice
Toast your rice first it adds such great flavor.
Bring It Together
Add your liquids put the chicken back cover and let it all simmer.
Finish With Flair
Stir in that parmesan until it's melty and perfect sprinkle with fresh parsley.

My Kitchen Secrets

Don't skip toasting the rice it makes such a difference in flavor. Want it extra juicy? Try chicken thighs instead. Need a low carb version? Cauliflower rice works great. Sometimes I toss in some spinach or peas for extra color and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different rice types?

Long-grain white rice works best for this timing. Other types may need adjusted cooking times and liquid amounts.

→ How do I prevent the rice from sticking?

Toasting the rice first and maintaining proper heat helps prevent sticking.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes, boneless thighs work well but may need slightly longer cooking time.

→ Why toast the rice?

Toasting adds flavor and helps prevent the rice from becoming mushy.

→ Can I make this lighter?

You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though it won't be quite as creamy.

Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

A comforting one-pan dinner combining golden chicken breasts with creamy Parmesan rice, perfect for busy weeknights.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
30 Minutes
Total Time
40 Minutes
By: Mina

Category: Chicken

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Italian-American

Yield: 4 Servings (1 pan)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
02 1 cup long-grain white rice.
03 2 cups chicken broth.
04 1 cup heavy cream.
05 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated.
06 1 small onion, finely chopped.
07 3 cloves garlic, minced.
08 2 tablespoons olive oil.
09 Salt and pepper to taste.
10 Fresh parsley for garnish.

Instructions

Step 01

Season chicken with salt and pepper.

Step 02

Brown chicken in oil, remove and set aside.

Step 03

Sauté onion and garlic in same pan.

Step 04

Add rice, toast 2-3 minutes.

Step 05

Pour in broth and cream, stir.

Step 06

Return chicken to pan.

Step 07

Cover, simmer 20-25 minutes.

Step 08

Stir in Parmesan until melted.

Step 09

Garnish with parsley.

Notes

  1. Use long-grain white rice for best results.
  2. Toast rice to prevent mushiness.
  3. Can substitute chicken thighs.
  4. Half-and-half can replace cream.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet with lid.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (cream, Parmesan).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 634
  • Total Fat: 40 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 19 g
  • Protein: 48 g