There's something magical about a one-pan dinner that brings comfort and ease to the kitchen. This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice recipe is the perfect example – tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, cheesy sauce all come together in one skillet for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple.

The inspiration for this dish came on a busy weeknight when I craved a home-cooked meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. It has since become a go-to favorite, loved for its creamy texture, bold flavors, and minimal cleanup. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

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

This dish has everything you need for a delicious, no-fuss dinner. Here’s why it’s about to become a staple in your kitchen:

Quick and Convenient: With just one pan, this recipe saves you both time and effort. It’s perfect for those nights when you need dinner on the table in under 40 minutes.
Comfort Food at Its Finest: Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, this meal feels indulgent while still being easy to make.
Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters can’t resist the combination of tender chicken and savory Parmesan sauce. Pair it with a side of veggies for a complete meal the whole family will love.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients, this recipe doesn’t break the bank. It’s an ideal choice for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

Ready to see how easy it is to make? Let’s talk ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this recipe’s irresistible flavor lies in its carefully selected ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These stay juicy and tender during cooking, absorbing the rich flavors of the sauce. If you prefer, chicken breasts can also be used – just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Long-Grain White Rice: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, long-grain rice cooks evenly and provides a fluffy texture. Avoid using quick-cooking rice, as it can become mushy.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce, creating a nutty, savory flavor. Pre-grated Parmesan works in a pinch, but freshly grated is worth the extra effort.
Chicken Broth and Heavy Cream: This dynamic duo creates the base of the sauce. The broth adds depth, while the cream ensures a velvety texture. For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half for the cream.
Seasonings: A mix of garlic, onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning enhances the dish’s overall flavor. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!

You’ll also need a large skillet with a lid for this one-pan wonder. Let’s move on to the step-by-step process!

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

Creating this dish is as easy as 1-2-3. Here’s how it’s done:

Prepare the Chicken: Begin by seasoning your chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and diced onions. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened. The garlic and onions will absorb all the flavorful drippings from the chicken, forming the base of your sauce.
Add the Rice and Liquids: Stir in the long-grain white rice, ensuring it’s well-coated in the aromatics. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cook the Chicken and Rice Together: Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, cover with a lid, and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
Stir in the Parmesan: Once cooked, sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and stir gently until melted. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color, and serve warm!

This entire process takes about 35 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat your creamy chicken and rice:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the dish cool completely before sealing to preserve freshness.
Freezing: For longer storage, transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the creamy consistency. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Swap the Protein: Try using shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a unique twist. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Add Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrients and color. Stir them in during the sauté step for the best results.
Cheese Options: While Parmesan is the star, other cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar can be used for a different flavor profile.
Whole-Grain Option: For a healthier spin, substitute brown rice. Keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner for two, this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is guaranteed to please. With its hearty flavors and comforting texture, it’s bound to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Give it a try tonight – your taste buds will thank you!