If you're craving a hearty, creamy, and flavor-packed meal, this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is the ultimate comfort food! Juicy, tender chicken, rich Parmesan-infused sauce, and perfectly cooked rice come together in a single skillet for an easy 40-minute dinner.

It’s a family-friendly meal that requires minimal cleanup—perfect for busy weeknights!

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Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the Chicken

• 500 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Rice & Sauce

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 200 g (1 cup) uncooked long-grain rice
• 500 ml (2 cups) chicken broth
• 250 ml (1 cup) heavy cream
• 60 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 100 g (1 cup) baby spinach (optional, for added greens)

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics & Rice

1. Reduce heat to medium, add butter, and melt.
2. Stir in onion and garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add rice and toast for 1 minute, stirring frequently.

Step 3: Simmer Everything Together

1. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
2. Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
3. Return the chicken to the pan, cover, and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, until the rice is tender.

Step 4: Final Touches & Serve

1. If using, stir in baby spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 24g
• Sodium: 680mg

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Tips & Tricks for the Best Creamy Chicken & Rice

✔ For extra flavor, use chicken thighs—they stay juicier!
✔ Let the rice simmer on low heat to prevent sticking or burning.
✔ Prefer a lighter version? Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
✔ Want more veggies? Add mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers!
✔ Leftovers? This dish reheats well—just add a splash of broth before reheating.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🔥 One-pan convenience = fewer dishes!
🔥 Creamy, cheesy, and comforting
🔥 Full of protein and wholesome ingredients
🔥 Customizable with your favorite add-ins