One Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice

This dish is pure comfort food. Tender chicken, creamy rice, and a whole lot of Parmesan. And the best part? It all comes together in one pan.

I made it on a busy weeknight, and it was a total win. The rice soaks up all the cheesy, garlicky flavors while the chicken stays juicy and tender. One pan, zero stress.

It’s rich, creamy, and perfect for a cozy dinner. Great for family meals, meal prep, or anytime you need a warm, hearty bite. Trust me, you’ll be scraping the pan.

Let’s get cooking! This one pan creamy Parmesan chicken rice is easy, filling, and so satisfying. Grab your skillet—we’re making dinner magic tonight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Comfort Food: With just one pan, this dish offers a hearty, creamy, and flavorful meal. The rice cooks right in the pan with the chicken, absorbing the broth and cream, so every bite is infused with flavor.
• Family-Friendly and Customizable: Kids and adults alike love this dish. You can easily add your favorite vegetables—think broccoli, peas, or even spinach—to make it more wholesome.
• Balanced Flavors: The base of garlic and onion adds depth, while the chicken broth and cream provide a rich, savory backbone. Parmesan cheese brings a nutty, salty note that ties it all together.
• Easy to Prepare: Everything is done in one pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing convenience.
• Perfect for Leftovers: The creamy rice reheats well the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prep or next-day lunches.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: About 10 minutes—just enough to chop onions, mince garlic, and cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• Cook Time: Around 40 minutes. The chicken cooks first for a nice sear, and then the rice simmers slowly in the broth and cream, absorbing all the flavors.
• Total Time: About 50 minutes from start to finish.

Servings:
This recipe makes about 4 hearty servings, perfect for a family meal or a few days of leftovers.

Difficulty:

• Beginner-friendly: Basic skills like searing chicken and simmering rice are all you need.
• Experienced cooks: Can enjoy adding custom flavors like fresh herbs or a touch of heat for a spicier version.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan with a tight-fitting lid: This ensures the rice cooks evenly and the sauce thickens just right.
• Cutting board and knife: To chop onion, garlic, and chicken.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient amounts.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir and scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.

Ingredients for One Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice

Here’s a more detailed look at what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

• Olive oil (1–2 tablespoons): This forms the base for searing the chicken and sautéing the aromatics. Choose extra virgin for richer flavor.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound): Cut into small cubes so they cook quickly and evenly, staying tender and juicy.
• Small onion (1, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and a subtle bite to the dish, forming a flavorful base for the sauce.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Essential for depth of flavor and aromatic warmth.
• Long-grain white rice (1 cup): Holds its shape during cooking and soaks up the creamy broth beautifully. Avoid short-grain rice, which can become mushy.
• Chicken broth (2 cups): The main liquid that cooks the rice, infusing it with savory flavor. Use homemade or low-sodium broth for best results.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates a luxurious, silky texture and rounds out the flavors of the dish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (about ½ cup): Adds a rich, cheesy finish that pairs perfectly with the creamy base.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the chicken and the final dish. Taste as you go!
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal touch to finish the dish.

Variations for One Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice

This dish is easy to customize based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Add Vegetables: Stir in broccoli florets, green peas, or baby spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking. They’ll cook perfectly in the creamy sauce and add a pop of color and nutrition.
• Use Chicken Thighs: Swap the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless thighs. They add richer flavor and stay tender and juicy.
• Make It Spicier: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic and onion for a gentle kick.
• Try Different Cheeses: While Parmesan gives a nutty, savory touch, you could mix in mozzarella or cheddar for a creamier, meltier texture.
• Herb Variations: Add a teaspoon of dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano for a more herbal note, or use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for brightness.

How to Make One Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken pieces, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned on all sides. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed. Once browned, remove the chicken and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the finely chopped onion for about 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

3. Toast the Rice

Pour the uncooked rice into the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir to coat the grains with the oil and aromatics. Let the rice toast lightly for about 1–2 minutes; this helps it absorb the flavors and improves the texture.

4. Add Broth and Cream

Return the browned chicken to the pan. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

5. Cover and Cook

Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir once or twice to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom.

6. Add Parmesan and Finish

Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts into the creamy sauce. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a splash more broth or cream to loosen it up.

7. Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a bright, fresh finish. Serve hot, with a side of crusty bread or a light salad if you’d like.

Serving and Decoration

One Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance it with simple sides and garnishes:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast to scoop up the creamy sauce.
• Add a Green Salad: A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs well to balance the richness of the dish.
• Fresh Garnish: Sprinkle with more freshly chopped parsley or even a touch of grated lemon zest for a hint of brightness.

Storing One Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Gently reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the rice has thickened too much. Microwave reheating also works but stir well to avoid uneven heating.
• Freezing (Optional): Although this dish freezes, the cream may separate slightly upon thawing. Freeze in portions for up to 1 month, and stir in fresh cream when reheating for a smoother texture.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t Rush the Browning: Give the chicken pieces space in the pan and don’t stir too often. This helps them develop a golden crust that adds flavor.
• Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pan: A thick-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven distributes heat evenly, reducing the risk of burning the rice.
• Taste as You Go: Always check seasoning at different stages. Broth and cheese both add salt, so adjust only after these ingredients are in.
• Add Liquid Gradually: If your rice seems too dry or sticky, add a little extra broth or cream a spoonful at a time until the texture is just right.

Nutrition

Nutrient	Per Serving (approximate)
Calories	550 kcal
Protein	35 g
Carbohydrates	40 g
Fat	30 g
Saturated Fat	15 g
Cholesterol	120 mg
Sodium	750 mg
Fiber	1 g
Sugars	2 g

One Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice FAQs

Q: Can I use brown rice?
A: You can, but it will require a longer cook time and more liquid. Adjust as needed.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely. Cook as directed, store in the fridge, and reheat with a splash of broth or cream.

Q: What other vegetables can I use?
A: Try adding diced carrots, peas, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This One Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice starts by searing the chicken until golden brown. Then, we sauté onion and garlic to build a fragrant base. Toast the rice in the same pan for a nutty touch, and add broth and cream to let it simmer. Once the rice is tender and creamy, stir in Parmesan cheese for a rich, cheesy finish. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy a comforting one-pan meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any night.