One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe

There's nothing quite like a hearty, comforting meal that comes together effortlessly, especially on a busy weeknight. One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice delivers all the cozy vibes with tender chicken, creamy rice, and a cheesy, flavorful sauce that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

I first made this dish on a rainy evening when I wanted something comforting but didn’t want to deal with a sink full of dishes. To my delight, it was a hit with the whole family—and even better, cleanup was a breeze. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a winner.

Why You'll Love This One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Get ready to embrace your new favorite dinner. This recipe is a lifesaver for busy nights and picky eaters alike.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With everything cooked in one pan, you’ll save time on preparation and cleanup, making it a stress-free option for hectic days.

The flavors are out of this world. The creamy, cheesy sauce blends perfectly with tender chicken and fluffy rice, creating a dish that’s indulgent yet approachable.

It’s family-friendly and customizable. Whether you want to sneak in extra veggies, swap out the chicken, or tweak the seasonings, this recipe adapts beautifully to suit your needs.

Budget-conscious cooks will love it too. With affordable ingredients and a short prep time, it’s as economical as it is delicious.

Ready to simplify your weeknight routine? Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

This dish is all about simplicity, relying on just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create something magical.

Chicken thighs are my protein of choice here. They’re juicy, flavorful, and hold up beautifully in the creamy sauce. If you prefer chicken breasts, you can use them too—just be mindful of cooking times to avoid drying them out.

Long-grain white rice is the perfect base for this dish. It cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce, creating a tender and satisfying texture. Avoid quick-cooking or instant rice, as they may become too mushy.

The Parmesan cheese is the star of the show. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded cheese can be tempting, but it doesn’t melt as smoothly.

Chicken broth forms the foundation of the sauce. It keeps the dish moist and enhances the flavor of the rice and chicken. You can use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.

For that rich, creamy finish, heavy cream is a must. It brings a luxurious texture to the dish, but you can substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter option.

No special equipment is required for this recipe. Just grab a large, deep skillet or sauté pan with a lid, and you’re good to go.

How To Make This One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Cooking this dish is as simple as it gets. With just one pan, you’ll be serving up a delicious meal in no time.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then season your chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Place the chicken in the hot pan, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

In the same pan, sauté finely diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant. This step adds a deep, savory base to the dish, so don’t skip it! Be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the chicken—they’re full of flavor.

Next, stir in the rice, ensuring it’s well-coated with the onion and garlic mixture. Add the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Nestle the chicken thighs back into the pan, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let everything cook together for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. The sauce will thicken and become irresistibly creamy. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and brightness before serving.

This entire process takes about 35 minutes, making it ideal for a quick, satisfying meal that feels far more elaborate than it actually is.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this dish stores beautifully for future meals.

Transfer any remaining chicken and rice into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth to restore its creamy texture.

When reheating, be sure to stir frequently to ensure the sauce stays smooth and doesn’t separate.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs.

For a lighter version, use skinless chicken breasts and substitute the heavy cream with evaporated milk or a plant-based alternative like coconut milk.

Vegetable lovers can add chopped spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers to the dish during the final 10 minutes of cooking. They’ll add vibrant color and an extra dose of nutrients.

If you prefer a different grain, try using quinoa or farro in place of rice. Just adjust the cooking liquid and time as needed.

Looking for a protein twist? Swap the chicken for shrimp or thinly sliced pork tenderloin for a fresh take on the classic.

Feeling adventurous? Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.

No matter how you choose to customize it, this one-pan wonder will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity and adaptability—perfect for busy cooks and hungry families alike!

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