Introduction
One-pan meals are a lifesaver for busy weeknights, and this Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice recipe is no exception. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice, this dish is sure to satisfy the whole family. In just 40 minutes, you can have a delicious and comforting meal ready to serve. The best part? Everything is cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 large chicken breasts (cut into strips or chunks)
– 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 medium onion (diced)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Yield
4 servings
Directions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear chicken until golden brown on both sides, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
3. Stir in rice, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
4. Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy this creamy and delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dining table!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Once the oil is hot, sear the chicken until it is golden brown on both sides. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, approximately 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Rice and Liquids
Stir in the uncooked long-grain white rice, chicken broth, and heavy cream into the skillet. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Step 4: Cook Chicken and Rice
Return the seared chicken to the skillet. Cover the skillet and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Allow it to melt and combine, creating a creamy consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish the dish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Notes
Cooking Time
The total cooking time for this recipe is approximately 40 minutes.
Servings
This recipe yields 4 servings, making it ideal for a family meal or small gathering.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Variations
Feel free to add vegetables such as peas or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your taste.
Cook techniques
Searing
Searing involves cooking food quickly at a high temperature to create a flavorful crust. In this recipe, the chicken is seasoned and seared in olive oil until golden brown, enhancing its flavor and texture.
Sautéing
Sautéing is a technique used to cook food quickly in a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. The onions and garlic in this recipe are sautéed until fragrant, adding depth to the dish.
Simmering
Simmering is a gentle cooking technique, where food is cooked in liquid just below the boiling point. After adding the rice, chicken broth, and heavy cream, the mixture simmers, allowing the flavors to meld while cooking the rice.
Melting
Melting is the process of heating cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy. In this recipe, Parmesan cheese is added at the end and stirred in until melted, enriching the dish with a creamy texture.
Garnishing
Garnishing enhances the visual appeal and flavor of a dish. Fresh parsley is used as a garnish in this recipe, providing a pop of color and a fresh taste.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or cheddar, depending on your taste preference.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas can be added during the cooking process to enhance flavor and nutrition.
Is it possible to use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid.
How can I make it spicier?
To add more spice, consider including red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce within the sautéing or simmering process.
What should I serve with this dish?
This dish is quite filling on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
One-pan creamy Parmesan chicken and rice is a delightful dish that combines succulent chicken with creamy, cheesy rice, making it a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a family favorite, while the one-pan method ensures easy cleanup. Enjoy this dish as a satisfying main course that brings everyone to the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
One-Pan Chicken Alfredo
Swap out the Parmesan for a rich Alfredo sauce and add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for a delicious twist on classic chicken Alfredo.
Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken and Rice
Infuse the dish with fresh lemon juice and herbs for a refreshing flavor profile. Pair with asparagus or green beans for added nutrition.
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Rice
Add Cajun seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies for a spicy kick. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors.
Vegetarian Mushroom Risotto
Replace chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth to create a creamy mushroom risotto that’s rich and satisfying without the meat.
Italian Chicken and Spinach Skillet
Incorporate fresh spinach and sundried tomatoes for a burst of color and nutrients, finishing with a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor.