There’s nothing quite like a comforting, home-cooked meal that requires minimal cleanup, and this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice delivers on every level. Tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce come together in a single skillet to create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple.

This recipe became a staple in my kitchen during a hectic weeknight when I craved something hearty but didn’t want to wash a sink full of dishes. Since then, it’s been my go-to for its ease, flavor, and ability to please the entire family.

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

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate dinner solution. This recipe is a life-saver for anyone who wants maximum flavor with minimal effort.

First, it’s all about convenience. Everything cooks together in one skillet, saving you time on both cooking and cleanup. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want a homemade meal but need to avoid the hassle.

The flavors are unmatched. The creamy Parmesan sauce coats every grain of rice and morsel of chicken, delivering a symphony of savory goodness in every bite. Plus, the addition of garlic and herbs takes the dish to the next level.

It’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you want to sneak in some vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or swap the chicken for shrimp or turkey, this dish adapts to whatever you have on hand.

Finally, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. It’s comforting, hearty, and elegant enough to serve to guests. Everyone will think you spent hours in the kitchen when it only takes about 40 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one has been carefully chosen to ensure a harmonious balance of taste and texture.

Chicken thighs are ideal for this dish because they stay juicy and tender throughout cooking. If you prefer, you can substitute them with chicken breasts, but be cautious not to overcook them.

The rice is the heart of the recipe. Long-grain white rice works best here, as it cooks evenly and absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully. Avoid using quick-cooking or instant rice, as they can become mushy.

For the sauce, Parmesan cheese is the star. Freshly grated Parmesan melts seamlessly into the cream and broth, creating a luscious, savory sauce. Pre-grated Parmesan can work in a pinch, but it might not melt as smoothly.

A blend of heavy cream and chicken broth gives the dish its rich and creamy texture. The broth adds depth of flavor, while the cream ensures the sauce is indulgent and velvety.

Garlic and onions form the flavor base of the dish. Sautéing them in butter or olive oil brings out their natural sweetness and creates an aromatic foundation for the sauce.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe, just a sturdy skillet with a lid. A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works perfectly to cook everything evenly and prevent sticking.

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

Making this dish is as easy as it gets. Let me walk you through the steps to ensure success every time.

Start by seasoning your chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika for color and flavor. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear them until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, add a knob of butter and sauté diced onions until they turn translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Stir in the uncooked rice, letting it toast slightly for a nuttier flavor. This step ensures the rice absorbs all the flavors of the pan. Next, pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for added depth.

Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet, cover with a lid, and reduce the heat to low. Let everything simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked. If the skillet starts to look dry, add a splash of broth or water.

Once cooked, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the entire skillet. Stir gently to incorporate the cheese into the sauce, then garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Storage Options

Leftovers of this dish are just as delicious, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Store the cooled chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to two months.

To reheat, place the dish in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Heat gently until warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to customize it to your preferences or dietary needs.

For a veggie-packed version, stir in a handful of fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms before adding the Parmesan cheese. These additions complement the creamy sauce perfectly.

If you’re looking to reduce the calories, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. The sauce will be slightly lighter but still delicious.

Swap the chicken thighs for shrimp or turkey for a different protein option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.

For a gluten-free version, double-check that your broth and Parmesan cheese are gluten-free, and you’re good to go.

Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to add an earthy flavor profile. You can also spice things up with a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Don’t hesitate to make this dish your own by incorporating your favorite ingredients or flavors. Cooking is all about creativity, and this recipe is a great canvas for experimentation!