Are you ready to treat yourself to a comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor? This creamy parmesan chicken and rice recipe is the perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice. It’s an ideal weeknight dinner that can be prepared in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. With a delightful combination of parmesan cheese and spices, this dish is sure to please the whole family. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately:
– Calories: 550
– Protein: 40g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fat: 25g
– Fiber: 2g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add Arborio rice and toast for 2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet, mixing well.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version. Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, try using mushrooms and vegetable broth.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad. A crispy garlic bread would also complement the creamy flavors perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover creamy parmesan chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain creaminess. This dish can be frozen, but the texture may change upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the chicken to prevent it from becoming dry.
- Use Arborio rice for the best creamy texture.
- Ensure to stir the rice occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Adjust the seasoning at the end for better flavor control.
- Don’t skip the garnish; fresh herbs enhance the dish’s presentation and flavor.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in garlic and herbs for a few hours.
- Add vegetables like spinach or peas for added nutrition.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor.
- Consider adding a splash of white wine for depth.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time, but it’s best to store the chicken and rice separately to maintain the texture. Reheat before serving.
What can I use instead of parmesan cheese?
You can substitute parmesan with pecorino cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option, though the flavor will vary slightly.
Can I add other proteins to this recipe?
Absolutely! Shrimp or diced ham can be a great addition. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep. Just divide it into portions for the week.
How do I make this dish spicier?
You can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning for an extra kick.
Conclusion
This creamy parmesan chicken and rice recipe is not only easy to make but also a comforting dish that will satisfy your cravings. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Enjoy this delicious dish that brings warmth and joy to your table!
Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add Arborio rice and toast for 2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet, mixing well.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
