Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice

After a long day, the aroma of savory chicken and creamy rice wafts through the kitchen, promising a delicious reprieve. Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice takes just under 30 minutes to prepare, bringing you tender chicken and rich flavors all in a single dish. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—you’ll have minimal cleanup while still enjoying a comforting and satisfying meal.

This recipe is perfect for busy families looking for a quick weeknight dinner or anyone craving a heartwarming dish without the fuss. It’s an ideal make-ahead meal for meal prep lovers too, as it stores beautifully in the fridge for later enjoyment.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One pot means easy cleanup without sacrificing flavor.
• Creamy texture combined with tender chicken creates a delightful experience.
• Quick cook time makes it perfect for busy nights.
• Fresh Parmesan adds a rich finish that elevates the dish.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious meal:

For the Chicken

• 1.5 pounds chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch pieces

For the Aromatics

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (3 teaspoons)

For the Flavoring

• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Rice

• 2.5 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup long grain white rice

For Creaminess

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For Serving

• Parsley, for serving (optional)

Use reduced-fat cream for a lighter version.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken breasts can be swapped for thighs.
• Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Brown rice may work but requires longer cooking.
• Heavy cream can be replaced with half-and-half.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your meal:

Heat

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften.

Add Chicken

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

Incorporate Garlic

Stir in the garlic and cook for one more minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Combine Broth and Rice

Add the chicken broth and rice to the pan, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.

Simmer

Cover with a lid and simmer for 17-20 minutes, until the rice is completely tender.

Finish

Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, ensuring everything is evenly combined. Serve immediately topped with parsley if desired.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, it doesn’t freeze well due to the cream.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t skip the resting time after cooking to allow flavors to meld.
• Adjust the seasoning to your personal taste preference.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
• Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.