Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice
This recipe is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines the richness of a creamy sauce with tender chicken and flavorful rice. It’s perfect for when you’re craving something hearty but not overly complicated to make.
Flavor:Â The Parmesan adds a nutty, savory depth to the dish, while the cream makes the rice rich and velvety. The garlic and onions provide a classic aromatic base that enhances the overall flavor, and thyme or Italian seasoning gives it an herbal warmth.
Texture:Â The chicken is seared to a golden brown, providing a slightly crisp exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy inside. The rice, cooked in chicken broth, absorbs all the flavors, becoming creamy and packed with goodness.
Versatility: This dish is great on its own but can be paired with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables to round out the meal. It’s also a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings because it offers familiar comfort food flavors with a touch of elegance from the Parmesan.
Parmesan Cheese:
- Why it works:Â Parmesan is a hard, salty cheese with a deep umami flavor that enhances the creaminess of the dish. It melts beautifully into the sauce, giving it a rich, nutty depth that complements both the chicken and the rice. The sharpness of Parmesan balances the richness of the cream, preventing the dish from feeling too heavy.
Heavy Cream:
- Why it works:Â The heavy cream creates a luxurious, silky texture that makes the rice velvety smooth. It combines with the Parmesan to form a thick sauce that clings to the rice and chicken, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. Cream also softens the acidity of the onions and garlic, creating a harmonious balance in the dish.
Chicken Broth:
- Why it works:Â Using chicken broth instead of water to cook the rice adds an extra layer of flavor. The rice absorbs the broth, infusing it with a savory, chicken-forward taste that ties the whole dish together. The broth also helps to keep the dish moist and flavorful as it simmers with the chicken.
Garlic and Onion:
- Why they work:Â Garlic and onion form the aromatic base of this dish, adding layers of savory depth. The onion becomes sweet as it cooks down, while the garlic gives a punch of warmth and flavor. Together, they infuse the rice with richness, making the dish flavorful without being overwhelming.
These ingredients create a cohesive flavor profile that’s both rich and comforting while still maintaining a balance of textures and tastes.
Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
Season the chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried thyme (or Italian seasoning) on both sides.
Sear the chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Cook the onions and garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
Add the rice:
- Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast.
- Add broth and simmer:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the rice. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Make it creamy:
- Remove the chicken once again and set it aside. Stir the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese into the rice, allowing it to thicken and get creamy (about 2-3 minutes). Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serve:
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon some of the creamy rice mixture over the chicken, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
