Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice

Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice is a dish that combines convenience with rich flavors. This creamy chicken and rice meal is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its one-pot cooking method, it allows for easy clean-up while delivering a comforting taste that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding kids, hosting friends, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This dish can be made in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners.
• One-Pot Wonder: All the ingredients cook together in one pot, saving time on both cooking and cleaning.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream and parmesan cheese creates a luscious sauce that enhances the chicken and rice.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily adjust the seasonings or add vegetables to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
• Family-Friendly Meal: The delicious flavors appeal to kids and adults alike, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential tools you’ll need to make Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides enough space to cook the chicken and rice evenly while allowing for easy stirring.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cutting of ingredients like chicken and onion, enhancing safety and efficiency.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice – This deliciously creamy chicken and rice is one of the easiest one pot meals you will ever make! Juicy chicken and rice are cooked together in a buttery broth then mixed up with cream and parmesan cheese for a luscious 30 minute one pan dinner!

For the Chicken

• 1.5 Pounds Chicken Breasts, (Cut into 1 inch pieces)
• 4 Tablespoons Butter
• 1 Large onion, (Diced)
• 3 Cloves Garlic, (Minced (3 Teaspoons))

For Seasoning

• 2 Teaspoons Italian Seasoning
• 1/2 Teaspoon Pepper
• 1 Teaspoon Salt

For Cooking

• 2 1/2 Cups Chicken Broth
• 1 Cup long grain white rice

For Creaminess

• 1/2 Cup Heavy Cream
• 1/2 Cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
• Parsley for serving, (Optional)

How to Make Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces, dice the onion, and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion to the pan.
1. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion begins to soften.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Add the diced chicken along with Italian seasoning, pepper, and salt.
1. Cook while stirring for about 5 minutes until the chicken is golden on all sides.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic into the pan.
1. Cook for one more minute, stirring constantly so that it doesn’t burn.

Step 5: Combine Rice and Broth

Pour in the chicken broth along with long-grain white rice.
1. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 6: Simmer

Bring mixture to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low.
1. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for about 17-20 minutes until rice is fully tender.

Step 7: Finish with Cream

Once rice is cooked through, stir in heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan cheese.
1. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 8: Serve

Serve immediately topped with parsley if desired for an extra touch of flavor!

How to Serve Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice

Serving Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice is simple yet versatile. This dish is rich and filling, making it perfect for a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. Here are some great ways to serve it.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add torn basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the flavors.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs perfectly with the creamy chicken and rice, adding crunch and zest.
• Mixed Greens: Serve a light mixed green salad with a vinaigrette dressing to balance the richness of the dish.

With Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is a fantastic addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls provide a comforting side that everyone will enjoy.

With Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, enhancing your meal’s health factor.
• Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus brings a lovely charred flavor that pairs well with the creamy rice.

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How to Perfect Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice

To ensure your Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and herbs enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried options.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the rice; overcooking can lead to mushiness, so follow timing closely.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to taste as you cook; adding more salt or pepper can personalize the dish to your liking.
• Opt for Quality Broth: Using homemade or high-quality chicken broth can elevate the overall taste of your meal.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes bring additional comfort to your meal.
2. Green Beans Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans with almonds add texture and nutrition.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob makes for a fun finger food that kids love.
4. Caprese Salad: Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken dish.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and balances out the creaminess of the main dish.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies can be both nutritious and delicious alongside this meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Ensure you cook until golden and just cooked through.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning adequately can result in bland flavor. Use salt and pepper generously, and consider adding herbs.
• Not Stirring Enough: Failing to stir during cooking can lead to uneven rice texture. Give it an occasional stir to ensure even cooking.
• Using the Wrong Rice: Long grain white rice is best for this recipe. Other types of rice may not cook properly or absorb flavors well.
• Neglecting the Lid: Leaving the lid off while simmering can cause too much liquid to evaporate. Keep it covered for optimal cooking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, stirring halfway through, until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook. Follow package instructions for best results.

How can I make this dish healthier?

You can use low-fat cream or substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.

What sides pair well with Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice?

A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables complement this dish beautifully and add freshness.

Can I add vegetables to the recipe?

Absolutely! Peas, spinach, or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrition and color.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices!