One Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice: 7 Irresistible Steps

July 28, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this one pan creamy parmesan chicken rice – it’s a game changer! Seriously, if you’re looking for a dish that’s as simple as it is delicious, you’ve hit the jackpot. This recipe is all about that creamy, dreamy goodness without the fuss of multiple pans. I mean, who doesn’t love a meal that comes together in just one pan? It’s not only a time-saver, but it makes cleanup a breeze, and we all know that’s a win in my book!

one pan creamy parmesan chicken rice - detail 1

The chicken is perfectly seasoned, and when it simmers with the rice in that rich, creamy sauce, the flavors meld together in a way that’ll have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Plus, it’s gluten-free, so it fits into a lot of diets! I can’t wait for you to try it – every bite is a hug for your taste buds!

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving, if you like it cheesy!)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Prepare One Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice

Preparing the Chicken

First things first, let’s get that chicken ready! Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This is where the flavor magic begins! Once seasoned, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. You want it hot but not smoking. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re beautifully golden brown. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re no longer pink in the center and have that lovely sear on the outside. Trust me, the smell will be absolutely irresistible!

Toasting the Rice

Now that your chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside for a moment. In the same pan, toss in your rice and toast it for about 2 minutes. This step is key because it brings out the nuttiness of the rice and adds depth to the dish. Keep an eye on it, and give it a gentle stir to make sure it doesn’t burn. You want it to be slightly translucent and fragrant. That’s when you know it’s ready for the next step!

Combining Ingredients

Alright, here comes the creamy goodness! Pour in your chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together until well combined. This is where the magic happens, so don’t rush it! Make sure to scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan – that’s pure flavor right there. Keep stirring until it’s all mixed in beautifully and you see that creamy texture forming.

Simmering and Final Touches

Now it’s time to bring the chicken back into the party! Place the cooked chicken on top of the rice mixture, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all that delicious chicken flavor while cooking through perfectly. When the time’s up, sprinkle in the parmesan cheese and stir until it’s melted and creamy. If you want it extra rich, feel free to add a bit more cheese! Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. And voilà! You’ve got a one-pan wonder that’s ready to impress!

Nutritional Information

When you’re whipping up this one pan creamy parmesan chicken rice, it’s nice to know what’s going into your delicious meal! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving:

Calories: 550
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 30g

This dish is not only hearty and satisfying, but it also packs in a good amount of protein thanks to the chicken and parmesan cheese. Plus, the carbs from the rice give you that perfect energy boost! Enjoy every creamy bite without any guilt!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan magic: It all comes together in just one dish, making cleanup a breeze!
Quick prep time: You can whip this up in about 10 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich and creamy flavor: The combination of heavy cream and parmesan creates a dreamy sauce you’ll crave.
Hearty and satisfying: With chicken and rice, this dish is a filling meal that won’t leave you hungry.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices for a personal twist!
Gluten-free: This recipe fits into many dietary needs, so everyone can enjoy it!
Kid-friendly: The creamy flavors and tender chicken are sure to be a hit with the little ones!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure you nail this one pan creamy parmesan chicken rice! Here are my top tips to elevate your dish:

Season to taste: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Everyone’s palate is different, so taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Use leftover chicken: If you’ve got some rotisserie chicken hanging around, you can easily use that instead! Just shred it and add it in when you combine the ingredients. It’ll save you time and still be delicious!
Experiment with veggies: Want to sneak in some greens? Toss in some spinach, peas, or broccoli during the last few minutes of simmering. They’ll cook perfectly and add a pop of color!
Don’t rush the simmer: Letting the dish simmer for the full 20 minutes is key. This allows the rice to absorb all those creamy, savory flavors. You’ll be rewarded with perfectly cooked rice!
For a lighter sauce: If you want to cut down on calories, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with a lower-fat option like half-and-half or even some chicken broth. Just know that it might change the richness a bit!
Fresh herbs are your friend: Don’t skip the parsley garnish! It brightens up the dish and adds a fresh flavor that complements the creaminess beautifully.
Make it ahead: This dish reheats well, so feel free to make it a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container and warm it up when you’re ready to dig in!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create an amazing meal that’ll impress everyone at the table. Enjoy the cooking adventure!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your one pan creamy parmesan chicken rice ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve with it to make your meal even more delightful! Trust me, pairing the right sides can elevate your dining experience to a whole new level.

Fresh Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect accompaniment. The crispness of the greens balances the creaminess of the chicken dish beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Toss some seasonal veggies like asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts in olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and roast them until caramelized. They add a lovely texture and flavor contrast!
Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with a side of warm, buttery garlic bread. It’s great for scooping up that creamy sauce and adds a comforting touch to the meal.
Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: For a pop of color and nutrition, serve some lightly steamed broccoli or green beans. Their vibrant green will brighten up your plate and they’re super easy to prepare!
Wine Pairing: If you’re in the mood for a drink, a nice glass of white wine, like a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy flavors wonderfully.
Fruit Salad: For dessert, a light fruit salad can be a refreshing finish. Think strawberries, blueberries, and a drizzle of honey – it’s sweet, bright, and a perfect way to end the meal.

These sides not only enhance your one pan creamy parmesan chicken rice but also create a colorful, well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress everyone at your table. Enjoy the feast!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Okay, let’s talk about leftovers! If you happen to have any of this delicious one pan creamy parmesan chicken rice left (which is rare, but it happens!), here’s how to store it properly to keep that creaminess intact.

First, let it cool down to room temperature before you store it. This prevents condensation from forming in your storage container, which can make everything a bit soggy. Transfer the chicken and rice to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to seal it tightly, so those flavors stay locked in!

Now, when it comes to reheating, I’ve got a couple of methods for you:

Microwave: This is the quickest way! Just scoop a serving into a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely with a lid or a paper towel, and heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes. Give it a stir halfway through to ensure even heating. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help loosen it up if it seems too thick!
Stovetop: If you’ve got a bit more time, reheating on the stovetop is my favorite method. Just place the chicken and rice in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it creamy, and stir occasionally until heated through. This way, it retains that lovely texture!

And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your one pan creamy parmesan chicken rice even after it’s made. So go ahead, make extra if you want – you’ll thank yourself later!

FAQ Section

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you’ll need to adjust the simmering time. You might want to add an extra 10-15 minutes to ensure it cooks through.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk. Just know that it may not be as rich and creamy, but it’ll still taste delicious!

Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some frozen peas, spinach, or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll add color and nutrition to your meal!

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part – it should be white and no longer pink.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep everything up to the simmering step and then refrigerate it. When you’re ready to eat, just bring it to a simmer and finish cooking.

What do I do if the sauce is too thick?
No worries! Just add a splash of chicken broth or more cream while stirring over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. Easy fix!

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
While I recommend enjoying it fresh, you can freeze leftovers. Just make sure to cool them completely, then store in an airtight container. It should be good for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating!

Can I use different types of cheese?
For sure! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or gouda. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change, but it’ll still be tasty!

What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can use water in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as rich. If you have bouillon cubes or powder, dissolve it in water for a quick homemade broth substitute!

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and rice in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours. Just add the cream and parmesan towards the end to keep it creamy!

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rigatoni or Creamy Chicken Pasta.

You might also like it

Chicken Enchiladas: 7 Irresistible Steps to Savor Bliss

Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos: 5 Flavorful Steps

Air Fryer Chili Lime Chicken Breast Recipe: 5 Flavor Tips

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.