This delicious and easy one-pan meal features tender chicken, creamy rice, and a savory Parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a comforting and satisfying dish the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
For the chicken and rice:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup long-grain rice (like jasmine or basmati)
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
For the creamy Parmesan sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Season the chicken:
- Pat the chicken thighs or breasts dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Sear the chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside (it will finish cooking later).
- Cook the rice:
- In the same skillet, add the uncooked rice and stir for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast it.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
- Bring to a simmer, then place the chicken back on top of the rice. Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Make the Parmesan sauce:
- While the chicken and rice cook, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the flour and whisk to create a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and serve:
- Once the rice is cooked, pour the creamy Parmesan sauce over the chicken and rice in the skillet. Stir gently to combine, or leave the chicken on top for a layered presentation.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple side salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the dish for extra vegetables.
Enjoy this comforting one-pan dish!