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Weeknight • Chicken

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice

A cozy, comforting one-pot meal featuring tender chicken and rice simmered in a rich, cheesy Parmesan sauce.

Prep
10 min
Cook
30 min
Servings
4
Level
Weeknight
Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Imagine a warm, comforting hug in a bowl – that's exactly what this Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice delivers! It's a fantastic one-pot wonder that brings together juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a luscious, cheesy sauce, making it an instant family favorite. Perfect for those nights when you want maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

Main

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup uncooked white rice (such as basmati or long-grain)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.

  2. Step 2

    Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  3. Step 3

    Add uncooked rice to the pot and stir for 1 minute, toasting it slightly. Pour in chicken broth, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed and rice is nearly tender.

  4. Step 4

    Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and the cooked chicken. Add frozen peas. Continue to cook, uncovered, for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and peas are heated through. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash more broth or water.

  5. Step 5

    Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let sit for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips

  • Using chicken thighs keeps the chicken extra juicy, but you can use chicken breast if you prefer, just be careful not to overcook it.
  • Don't lift the lid too much while the rice is simmering to ensure it cooks evenly.
  • For an even richer flavor, use Arborio rice and stir frequently like a risotto, adding broth in stages.

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