Description

Looking for a rich, creamy, and satisfying one-pot meal? This Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food, made with tender chicken thighs, buttery rice, and a luscious Parmesan-infused sauce—all in just one pan!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Rice & Sauce:

1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

2 cups chicken broth

½ cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon onion powder

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons butter

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

½ cup frozen peas or spinach (optional, for extra veggies)

Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Season & Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics & Cook the Rice

In the same pan, melt butter, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Stir in uncooked rice, letting it toast slightly for 1-2 minutes.

Pour in chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and onion powder, stirring well.

Step 3: Simmer Until Rice is Tender

Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, placing them on top of the rice.

Cover and reduce heat to low, simmering for 20 minutes until the rice is fully cooked.

Step 4: Make It Creamy & Cheesy

Remove the lid and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and optional veggies.

Let simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or basil.

Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, cheesy chicken and rice!

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan – It melts better and enhances the flavor.

Sear the chicken first – Adds depth and extra juiciness.

Don’t skip toasting the rice – Helps develop a nutty, rich flavor.

Prefer a lighter version? – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 30
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6
Calories: 320
Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 35g

Keywords: Chicken And Creamy Rice