Irresistible Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice Recipe

The aroma of Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice wafts through the air, inviting you to take that first enticing spoonful. Picture tender chicken nestled in a rich, creamy sauce, mingling with perfectly cooked rice that absorbs all those delightful flavors.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; they were skeptical at first. But one bite in, and their faces lit up like fireworks on the Fourth of July. It quickly became a staple at our dinner table, perfect for cozy family gatherings or a weeknight treat after a long day.

I vividly recall my sister’s eyes widening as she took her first bite and declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.”

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding

• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate your own cheese for maximum creaminess and flavor; it’s worth it!

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while adding depth to your dish

• Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce so irresistibly creamy and rich

• Rice: Long-grain white rice works best here; it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors beautifully

• Soy Sauce: Adds an umami kick to balance the creaminess perfectly

• Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances the overall flavor profile

• Spinach (optional): Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition without overpowering the dish

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice

Searing the Chicken: Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the hot skillet. Cook until golden brown on both sides, around 5-7 minutes per side.

Aromatics Galore: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant; about 30 seconds should do it!

Create That Creamy Sauce: Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a simmer while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Then stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until you achieve that luxurious creamy consistency.

Add Rice and Chicken Back: Stir in uncooked rice along with the seared chicken pieces back into the skillet. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low; allow everything to cook together for about 20 minutes or until rice is tender.

Add Spinach (if using): Just before serving, mix in fresh spinach until wilted. This adds not only color but also extra nutrients without losing any delicious flavors.

Prepare yourself for an explosion of savory goodness! Each spoonful of this dish will transport you straight to comfort food heaven—perfectly satisfying every craving you never knew you had!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in juices, then cook the rice while preparing the creamy Parmesan sauce. This method ensures everything finishes simultaneously and prevents overcooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or toss in seasonal veggies for an extra crunch. Customize the herbs too—basil or thyme can add a unique twist to your dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to revive creaminess.

It’s funny how my friends always expect me to whip up this dish whenever they visit. One night, I almost forgot a key ingredient—the Parmesan! Thankfully, I had some hidden away, and it saved the day!

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but remember to adjust cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook thoroughly.

What can I substitute for chicken?

Shrimp or tofu works wonderfully if you’re looking for a delicious alternative protein source.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the sauce for an added kick of flavor.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked rice. This one-pan meal is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, offering a delightful blend of savory flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With its easy preparation and satisfying taste, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household.

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)

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Instructions

1. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown on each side (5-7 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Create the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer, then stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
4. Combine Rice and Chicken: Add uncooked rice and seared chicken back to the skillet. Cover and reduce heat to low; cook for about 20 minutes or until rice is tender.
5. Add Spinach: Just before serving, fold in fresh spinach until wilted.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Skillet cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 53g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 150mg