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–+ servings
Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Easy Dinner

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice

This one-pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice is the ultimate cozy dinner. Juicy chicken thighs, buttery garlic rice, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce come together for a comforting, weeknight-worthy meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian-Inspired
Servings 4 servings
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Skillet with Lid
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs tender and juicy, perfect for soaking up flavor
  • 1 tsp salt enhances all the savory notes
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper adds warmth and depth
  • 1 tsp garlic powder classic comforting flavor
  • 1 tsp paprika adds smoky flavor and color
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for searing the chicken

For the Rice & Sauce

  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice fluffy and soaks up sauce
  • 2 cups chicken broth for cooking the rice
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream for creaminess
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese creamy, salty, and nutty
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning adds herbal balance
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder deepens the flavor
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp butter for richness and depth
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes optional – for heat
  • 0.5 cup frozen peas or spinach optional – for freshness and color
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Pat chicken thighs dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds. Stir in uncooked rice and toast 1–2 minutes, coating well.
  • Add chicken broth, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir and nestle seared chicken into the rice. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer until rice is tender and broth absorbed (about 20 minutes).
  • Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, red pepper flakes, and optional peas or spinach. Let simmer uncovered a few minutes until creamy and thickened.
  • Garnish with parsley or basil. Serve warm from the pan.

Notes

✅ Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melt
✅ Broil the dish before serving for a golden finish
✅ Let chicken rest a few minutes after cooking
✅ Pairs well with salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 32gFat: 29gSaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 165mgSodium: 840mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 610IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 160mgIron: 2.2mg
Keyword Chicken and Rice, comfort food, creamy chicken, one pot
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