Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice One Pot – Easy Comfort Food Dinner

This Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice One Pot dish came to life on a weeknight when I needed something comforting but didn’t want to spend all evening in the kitchen. I had chicken, rice, a wedge of parmesan, and just enough energy to clean one pan. The result? A rich, creamy, satisfying meal that quickly made it into regular rotation.

The beauty of this recipe is in its balance, savory parmesan, juicy chicken, and tender rice all come together with minimal effort. No fancy steps, no pile of dishes, and definitely no flavor sacrificed.

It’s quick, hearty, and hits the spot whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself after a long day.

Why This One Pot Parmesan Chicken and Rice Will Be Your New Go-To

• It’s all made in one pan for easy cleanup
• The creamy texture and parmesan flavor are irresistibly rich
• It’s budget-friendly and pantry-staple friendly
• You can customize it with veggies, spice, or other proteins
• It’s a complete meal that reheats beautifully

With all these wins, it’s no wonder this creamy chicken rice dinner is becoming a family favorite.

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice One Pot Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this creamy one-pot chicken rice recipe a total hit. Stick to fresh ingredients when possible for the best flavor.

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into large bite-sized chunks)
• 1 cup long grain white rice (rinsed)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• 1 cup frozen peas or chopped baby spinach (optional for added veggies)

The parmesan adds a deep savory flavor, while the milk and cream bring that signature silky finish. Don’t skip rinsing the rice, it helps keep the texture just right.

This comforting chicken and rice one-pot meal has a similar soul to the One Pan Chicken and Rice Bake on our site, but with a creamy twist.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Follow these easy steps and you’ll have a cheesy, creamy chicken and rice skillet on the table in about 40 minutes.

1. Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, then sear until lightly browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the rice and toast for 1 minute, then pour in the broth and milk. Stir in Italian seasoning, onion powder, and a little more salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Return chicken to the pot. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Let everything gently bubble together for 2–3 minutes until creamy. Fold in peas or spinach if using. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

You’ll find the depth of flavor here rivals that of our Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice, it’s creamy, bold, and satisfying in every bite.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken and Rice

This dish doesn’t need much on the side, but here are a few favorite ways to round out the meal.

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans
• Garlic butter dinner rolls or fresh sourdough bread
• Sparkling water with citrus or cucumber slices

This one-pan chicken and rice dinner is hearty enough to stand alone but plays well with light sides to balance the richness. Great for casual dinners, family meals, or even small gatherings when you want something cozy without extra prep.

Want a different texture? Try pairing it with oven-roasted vegetables for a little crunch.

And if you’re cooking for picky eaters, this recipe is easy to customize. Like our Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs recipe, it adapts to different preferences beautifully.

Variations & Customizations for Parmesan Chicken Rice Skillet

Want to switch it up? This creamy one-pot chicken and rice has tons of flexibility.

• Swap thighs for chicken breast if you prefer leaner cuts
• Use arborio rice for extra creaminess, or brown rice for a nutty flavor (add extra broth and time)
• Add chopped mushrooms or sautéed zucchini for more veg
• Mix in chili flakes or hot sauce if you like a little heat
• Substitute cream with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option
• Use a mix of cheddar and parmesan for more bold flavor
• Try it with rotisserie chicken to save time
• Add a can of drained corn or diced tomatoes for texture and color

The structure of this dish is forgiving. As long as you keep the ratios and cooking times consistent, the variations are endless. It’s as flexible as our Easy Chicken Pot Pie with Pie Crust when it comes to swapping ingredients to fit your mood.

Storage & Reheating Creamy Chicken and Rice

This meal stores like a champ and reheats even better.

Let leftovers cool, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or milk and warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.

You can freeze it too, though the texture may change slightly. Reheat frozen portions slowly and stir often to restore the creamy consistency.

Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Use these quick tips to guarantee success every time.

• Rinse the rice before cooking to prevent stickiness
• Sear the chicken first to lock in flavor and color
• Don’t lift the lid while the rice simmers, steam is key
• Add cheese and cream at the end so they don’t curdle
• Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent scorching
• Let the dish sit for 5 minutes off heat before serving for best texture

Even if it’s your first time making a one-pan creamy rice dish, following these tips will help you get that rich, creamy finish just right.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in One Pot Chicken and Rice

Avoid these kitchen pitfalls to keep your creamy chicken and rice from turning into a mess.

• Skipping the rice rinse: leads to gluey texture
• Adding all dairy too early: it can separate or curdle under high heat
• Not searing chicken: reduces flavor depth and texture
• Overcooking rice: turns the dish mushy
• Using high heat while simmering: can burn the bottom layer
• Using too much liquid: makes the dish too wet and soupy

Stick to the steps and you’ll have a perfectly creamy, cozy skillet meal every time.

Conclusion

This Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice One Pot recipe hits all the right notes: flavorful, comforting, and simple to make. It brings together tender chicken, velvety rice, and melty parmesan cheese in one dish that feels like a warm hug.

It’s a true keeper.

Try it once, and you’ll be pinning it to your weekly meal rotation. Save it, share it, and pass it along to anyone who loves a good one-pot wonder.

FAQs About Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice One Pot

Can I use instant rice for creamy chicken and rice?

It’s not recommended. Instant rice cooks too quickly and often turns mushy in a one-pot meal like this. Stick to long-grain or jasmine rice for the best results.

What vegetables go well in creamy chicken and rice one pot?

Frozen peas, baby spinach, broccoli florets, mushrooms, and zucchini are all great additions. Just stir them in near the end of cooking so they stay bright and tender.

How do I keep the rice from getting mushy?

Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking, don’t over-stir, and use the correct amount of liquid. Also, simmer on low and avoid lifting the lid while it cooks.

Is it better to use chicken breast or thighs in this one pot rice recipe?

Chicken thighs stay more tender and juicy, making them a better fit for this dish. You can use breasts if preferred, but watch closely to avoid overcooking.

Can I make this creamy parmesan chicken and rice ahead of time?

Yes, this dish stores well and makes excellent leftovers. Make it up to 4 days ahead and reheat with a splash of broth or milk to bring back the creamy texture.

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice One Pot – Easy Comfort Food Dinner

Author: Ellie Courses: Dinner