Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Recipe

Name: Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts; 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish; Optional: vegetables like spinach or broccoli

Posted on March 3, 2025

Recipes

Indulge in the delightful Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice, where tender chicken breasts are enveloped in a luscious parmesan sauce served over fluffy rice. This dish is not only comforting but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that promises to satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts
1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish
Optional: vegetables like spinach or broccoli

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of about 30 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 30g of protein. This is based on typical ingredient values.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and add to the skillet.
Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
Add rice and stir to coat with the oil and garlic.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until rice is tender.
Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Add chicken back to skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream. Additionally, feel free to use brown rice for a healthier option, just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Serving and Pairings

This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy flavors perfectly.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to restore creaminess. This dish can be frozen, but the texture may change upon thawing.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the chicken can make it dry; use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
Adding too much liquid can make the rice mushy; follow the broth measurements closely.
Forgetting to season your dish can lead to bland flavors; taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Not allowing the sauce to thicken can result in a watery dish; let it simmer longer if needed.
Skipping the sautéing step for the garlic and rice can reduce flavor depth.

Helpful Tips

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Add vegetables to the dish for added nutrition and flavor.
Serve with fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it is fully thawed before cooking to achieve even cooking and flavor absorption.

What can I serve with Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice?

This dish pairs well with steamed veggies, a crisp salad, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

How long does this dish last in the fridge?

The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Just be cautious with the reheating process to maintain creaminess.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and can be portioned out for easy meals throughout the week.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s perfect for family meals or entertaining guests. Try this recipe today and enjoy the rich taste that everyone will love!