There's nothing quite like the rich, creamy flavor of Parmesan paired with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice. This one-pan meal is the ultimate comfort food, delivering a warm, satisfying dinner without the hassle of extra dishes.
I first discovered this recipe while experimenting with pantry staples and a craving for something hearty but easy. It quickly became a go-to for weeknights, offering maximum flavor with minimal effort. Let’s dive into why this one-pan wonder deserves a spot in your dinner rotation.
Why You'll Love This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Get ready to fall in love with a dish that combines simplicity, flavor, and convenience into every bite.
First, it’s all about the one-pan magic. With everything cooked in a single skillet, you save time on cleanup while letting all the flavors meld together beautifully.
It’s incredibly versatile. Whether you have leftover chicken or want to use a different protein, this recipe adapts easily to what you have on hand.
The flavor is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The creamy Parmesan sauce infuses the rice and chicken with rich, savory goodness, making it hard to stop at just one serving.
Finally, this recipe is perfect for busy nights. From prep to table in about 40 minutes, it’s a lifesaver when you’re short on time but still want a home-cooked meal.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together for an unforgettable meal.
Chicken is the star of the show here. I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Both options stay tender and juicy, but thighs bring an extra depth of flavor.
Rice is equally important. Long-grain white rice works best for a fluffy, non-sticky texture, but you could use jasmine or basmati for a slight twist. Avoid instant rice as it won’t hold up well during cooking.
Parmesan cheese is the highlight, delivering a nutty, savory depth. Use freshly grated Parmesan if possible—it melts better and offers superior flavor compared to pre-shredded options.
Chicken broth serves as the cooking liquid, infusing the rice with savory goodness. If you’re out of chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water with a bit of bouillon will work in a pinch.
Heavy cream adds richness to the sauce. You can substitute half-and-half if you’re looking for a lighter version, but the cream creates that luxurious texture that makes this dish irresistible.
For special equipment, you’ll need a large, deep skillet with a lid to ensure everything cooks evenly.
How To Make This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Creating this dish is as easy as it is delicious. Here’s how to make it step by step.
Start by seasoning your chicken generously with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. These aromatics create the foundation of flavor for the dish.
Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the onion and garlic mixture. Toasting the rice for a minute or two helps enhance its nutty flavor. Then, pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
Nestle the chicken back into the skillet, cover it with a lid, and reduce the heat to low. Let everything simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, coating the chicken and rice in creamy goodness. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
In about 40 minutes, you’ll have a complete meal bursting with flavor, ready to serve straight from the pan.
Storage Options
This dish stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making the next day’s meal even more delicious.
To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is as flexible as it is flavorful. Here are some ideas to customize it to your taste.
Swap the chicken for shrimp or turkey for a different protein option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.
Add veggies like spinach, peas, or mushrooms to boost the nutritional value and add more texture. Simply stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking.
For a different cheese profile, try Asiago or Gruyère instead of Parmesan. Each adds its unique flavor to the dish.
Looking for a bit of spice? Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
If you’re watching carbs, substitute cauliflower rice. Just reduce the broth to avoid overcooking the cauliflower.
The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own. With its creamy texture and bold flavor, it’s a dish you’ll want to revisit again and again!
PrintOne-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe
This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. A quick and delicious comfort food dinner made in one pan, perfect for busy families.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pan
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika, and sear them on both sides until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté diced onion until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in uncooked rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Return chicken breasts to the skillet, cover, and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle with Italian seasoning. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Use boneless thighs instead of breasts for juicier chicken.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- For extra veggies, add spinach or peas in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with rice
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
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