There's nothing like the comforting aroma of One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice filling your kitchen after a long day. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and savory Parmesan cheese into a one-pan wonder that's both satisfying and simple to make.

I discovered this dish during a hectic week when I needed something that felt indulgent but required minimal cleanup. It's now a staple in our household for those nights when time is short but the craving for a cozy, home-cooked meal is strong.

Let’s dive into the magic of this one-pan marvel!

Why You'll Love This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Get ready to embrace your new weeknight go-to recipe. This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is as comforting as it is convenient.

First and foremost, everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. There's no need for multiple pots and pans – less mess means more time to relax after dinner.

The flavors are a true crowd-pleaser. The creamy Parmesan sauce, combined with perfectly cooked chicken and tender rice, creates a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable.

It’s also a time-saver. Ready in under 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something quick but don’t want to compromise on flavor.

Lastly, this dish is incredibly versatile. Whether you add vegetables, swap out proteins, or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, it’s a recipe that adapts to what you have on hand.

Once you try it, you'll see why this dish is a keeper!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each component contributes to the dish's creamy, savory perfection.

Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for maximum juiciness and flavor. Chicken breasts work too, but keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid drying them out.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is ideal for this recipe as it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors beautifully. Avoid quick-cooking or instant rice, as it might become mushy in the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is the key to a luscious, cheesy flavor. Pre-grated cheese can work in a pinch but might not melt as smoothly.
Chicken Broth: Adds depth and enhances the savory profile of the dish. Low-sodium broth is a great choice to control the salt level.
Heavy Cream: This creates the creamy texture that makes this dish so irresistible. For a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.

You’ll also need a large skillet with a lid, a wooden spoon, and a grater for the Parmesan. With these simple tools, you’re set up for success!

How To Make This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Making this dish is as easy as 1-2-3. Follow these steps to create a comforting meal that looks (and tastes!) like it took hours.

Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning your chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown, then set it aside. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked – it will finish cooking later.
Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes. This step creates a flavorful base for the dish.
Toast the Rice: Add the rice to the pan, stirring it with the onions and garlic. Let it toast for a minute or two – this enhances its flavor and helps prevent it from becoming mushy.
Simmer to Perfection: Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the heavy cream. Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let everything simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Finish with Parmesan: Once the rice and chicken are done, sprinkle a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir gently to combine, letting the cheese melt into the creamy sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color.

In just under 40 minutes, you’ll have a meal that’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious.

Storage Options

This dish stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The rice will continue to absorb some of the sauce, so add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in individual portions. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of liquid to restore the creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Add Veggies: Stir in cooked broccoli, peas, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
Swap Proteins: Not a fan of chicken? Try shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a twist.
Experiment with Cheese: Replace Parmesan with Asiago, Gruyère, or Pecorino Romano for a different cheesy profile.
Herbs and Spices: Boost the flavor with thyme, rosemary, or paprika. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end adds a bright, fresh finish.
Whole-Grain Option: Use brown rice instead of white, but adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.

No matter how you customize it, this recipe is guaranteed to please.

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is more than just a meal – it's a warm hug in a bowl. Give it a try, and let it become a staple in your kitchen too!