Creating a satisfying and delicious meal that doesn’t require multiple pots and pans is a dream for busy home cooks. Enter the ultimate comfort dish: One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice. With simple ingredients, a single skillet, and flavor that screams “seconds, please,” this recipe is everything a home cook could want.
Not only does it make cleanup a breeze, but this one-pan wonder also delivers on richness, texture, and ease. If you’re looking for the perfect rice-to-cream ratio or wondering what type of chicken works best, this guide has you covered.
Need help choosing the right rice? Learn how to cook rice perfectly every time to elevate your skillet dish. Or, if you’re after the right tool, see the best skillet pans for one-pan meals to make this recipe a no-fail staple.
Why One-Pan Meals Are a Game-Changer
One-pan meals simplify dinner in every way:
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Minimal cleanup means more time to relax
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All ingredients cook in harmony, enhancing flavor
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You need only one skillet, perfect for small kitchens
This is comfort food done right — quick, creamy, and deeply satisfying.
What Makes One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice So Special?
This meal checks all the boxes:
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Rich Parmesan flavor without heaviness
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Creamy texture from simple ingredients
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Tender chicken that’s never dry
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Hearty rice cooked in seasoned broth
Everything blends into a creamy, golden finish with minimal effort.
Using thin chicken cuts? You’ll need specific techniques to retain moisture. Here’s a practical tutorial on how to keep thin chicken breast moist during fast skillet cooking.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into this soul-warming dish:
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Boneless chicken breasts or thighs
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Uncooked long-grain white rice
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Chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
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Garlic and onion (fresh or powdered)
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Grated Parmesan cheese
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Heavy cream or dairy-free alternative
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Butter or olive oil
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Salt, black pepper, and optional herbs like thyme or parsley
For dairy-free options, explore these cream alternatives that maintain flavor and richness.
Best Chicken Cuts for This Dish
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Boneless thighs add extra moisture and flavor.
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Chicken breasts are leaner and absorb flavor well when browned properly.
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Cut chicken into uniform sizes for even cooking.
Tip: Pat the chicken dry before searing to help create a flavorful crust.
To avoid dry or chewy meat, follow these essential steps for how to cook moist and tender chicken breasts that deliver flavor and texture every time.
Which Rice Works Best?
Choose rice that cooks evenly and holds its shape. If you’re unsure where to start, here’s a great guide on how to cook rice perfectly every time to help you nail the texture for this dish:
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Long-grain white rice – ideal texture and creaminess
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Basmati – aromatic but light
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Arborio – for a risotto-style creaminess
Avoid instant or pre-cooked rice; it becomes mushy.
Can You Make It Creamy Without Dairy?
Absolutely. Try:
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Unsweetened cashew or oat cream
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Coconut cream for a slight sweetness
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Greek yogurt (add near the end to avoid curdling)
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A roux made from oil and flour, then add broth
Reheating without ruining the texture is crucial. Try these best ways to reheat leftover chicken to keep your meal moist and creamy.
Step-by-Step: How to Make One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
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Heat olive oil in your skillet
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Sear chicken 4–5 mins per side
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Remove and set aside
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
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In the same pan, melt butter
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Add garlic and onion until fragrant
Step 3: Add Rice & Broth
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Stir in uncooked rice
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Pour in broth and cream
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Return chicken to the pan
Step 4: Simmer Gently
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Cover and simmer on low for 20 minutes
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Stir halfway to prevent sticking
Step 5: Add Parmesan
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Once rice is tender, stir in Parmesan
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Let rest uncovered for 5 minutes
If you’re using chicken cubes instead of whole breasts, refer to this guide on how long to cook chicken cubes on the stove for ideal timing and doneness.
Flavor Boosters You’ll Love
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Lemon zest or splash of lemon juice
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Chopped spinach or kale for added nutrients
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Sautéed mushrooms or diced carrots
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Cracked red pepper flakes for a spicy twist
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Using high heat – it scorches cream and dries chicken
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Skipping the browning step – less flavor
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Overcooking the rice – leads to a gluey texture
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Adding cheese too early – it can break and clump
Many people overcook their chicken or use improper methods. If you’re experiencing chewy results, you might relate to this guide on why your chicken breast is tough in the slow cooker and how to avoid it.
How to Reheat Without Drying It Out
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Add 2 tablespoons of broth or milk per serving
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Reheat covered on low
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Microwave with a damp paper towel to lock in moisture
Need more reheating strategies? Check out these best ways to reheat leftover chicken.
Can You Freeze This Dish?
Yes — with a few adjustments:
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Freeze in airtight containers
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Omit Parmesan until reheating
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Reheat slowly on the stovetop
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Stir in fresh cream after thawing
What to Serve with One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
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Steamed green beans
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Mixed leafy salad with vinaigrette
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Roasted broccoli or asparagus
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Garlic breadsticks for dipping
How to Make It More Nutritious
Boost the dish with:
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Frozen peas
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Diced zucchini
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Chopped kale or spinach
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Sweet corn for texture and sweetness
Best Skillet Types for This Recipe
For the perfect one-pan meal:
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Cast iron – holds heat and gives a nice crust
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Stainless steel – great for deglazing
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Oven-safe nonstick – easy cleanup
Learn more about the best skillet pans for one-pan meals to elevate your cooking game.
Add a Crispy Finish Without Baking
If you like a crusty top:
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Remove lid in the last 5 minutes
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Sprinkle extra Parmesan
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Let the bottom crisp slightly over low heat
Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips
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Cook, cool, and portion into containers
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Refrigerate up to 3 days
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Freeze up to 2 months
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Reheat with broth or a splash of cream
FAQs About One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but increase the liquid and cooking time. Brown rice takes longer to soften.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Use chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken. Sub in veggie broth and plant-based cream.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, if your broth and cheese are certified gluten-free.
How do I make this more nutrient-rich?
Add spinach, peas, mushrooms, or grated carrots while simmering.
Why is my rice undercooked?
Your heat may be too low, or the lid wasn’t tight. Try simmering a bit longer with extra broth.
Can I bake this dish instead?
Yes! After adding all ingredients, bake at 350°F covered for 30–35 minutes.
Conclusion: Your New Weeknight Favorite
If you’ve been searching for a simple, satisfying dinner, One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is it. The recipe combines comfort, flavor, and simplicity all in one skillet.
Use quality ingredients, sear your chicken well, and let the rice soak in all that flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping lunch for the week, this one-pan recipe delivers creamy, tender, and cheesy perfection — every single time.