There's nothing quite like the comfort of a one-pan meal that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice. This One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a crowd-pleaser that brings hearty, satisfying flavors to the table without the mess of multiple pots and pans.

I first made this dish on a chilly evening, inspired by the need to create something warm and filling with pantry staples. The result was a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that has since become a weekly favorite in my home. Let’s dive into what makes this dish a must-try for your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice

Get ready to meet your new go-to comfort food. This recipe ticks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight dinner—quick, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious.

First, it’s a one-pan wonder! No juggling multiple pots or scrubbing countless dishes afterward. The chicken, rice, and creamy sauce cook together seamlessly, making cleanup a breeze.

The combination of juicy chicken and creamy, cheesy rice is pure heaven. Each bite bursts with flavor, thanks to the Parmesan cheese and a touch of garlic that brings everything together.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. Whether you need to feed a crowd or want to scale it down for a cozy dinner for two, it adapts beautifully. Plus, you can easily swap in your favorite vegetables for an added nutritional boost.

Finally, it’s a budget-friendly option. Using simple, everyday ingredients means you can create a meal that feels luxurious without breaking the bank.

Now that you know why this recipe is so special, let’s look at the ingredients that make it shine.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish comes from its simple yet flavor-packed ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each component plays an essential role.

Chicken thighs or breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my favorite for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender throughout cooking. However, chicken breasts work just as well if that’s what you have on hand.

Long-grain white rice: This type of rice is ideal because it cooks evenly and absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully. Avoid instant rice, as it can become mushy in this dish.

Parmesan cheese: The star ingredient that adds richness and a nutty depth of flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan is best for that perfect melt, but pre-grated works in a pinch.

Chicken broth: This forms the base of the creamy sauce, infusing the dish with a savory depth. Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.

Heavy cream: Creates that luscious, creamy texture. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, though it won’t be as rich.

You’ll also need butter, garlic, and a touch of onion powder to round out the flavor profile. If you have a large skillet or sauté pan with a lid, you’re ready to get cooking!

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

Creating this dish is as simple as it gets. Follow these steps for a foolproof, delicious dinner.

Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of onion powder. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt a tablespoon of butter. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add a bit more butter and minced garlic. Let the garlic cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze and pick up all those flavorful browned bits.

Stir in the rice, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Nestle the chicken back into the skillet, cover, and let everything simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes. The rice will cook to perfection, soaking up the creamy sauce as the chicken finishes cooking.

Once the rice is tender, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover again for a couple of minutes to let the cheese melt into gooey perfection. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch before serving.

This entire process takes just over 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying fast.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), this dish stores beautifully.

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more as it sits, making for an even tastier lunch the next day.

To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the skillet to loosen the sauce. Heat on low, stirring gently until warmed through. If using a microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze it for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as described above.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Add vegetables: Stir in peas, spinach, or diced bell peppers during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a pop of color and extra nutrients.
Try different cheeses: While Parmesan is classic, a mix of mozzarella and cheddar can add a different dimension of creaminess.
Use brown rice: Swap white rice for brown for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Just increase the cooking time slightly and add a bit more liquid.
Go spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce for a spicy kick.
Make it gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check all ingredients, especially the chicken broth, to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and tailor this recipe to your taste. Cooking is all about making it your own!

This One-pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. With its comforting flavors, easy cleanup, and endless customization options, it’s a dish you’ll turn to time and time again. Enjoy!