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To master the art of One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice, it’s essential to understand the key components that make this dish shine. Each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering flavor, texture, and nutrition.

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice: A Comforting and Nutritious Meal

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender chicken thighs, creamy Parmesan sauce, and flavorful rice all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. Bursting with flavor, thanks to sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh spinach, it's a satisfying meal everyone in the family will love. Elevate your home cooking with this delicious, time-saving recipe that’s bound to become a kitchen staple.

Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup long-grain rice (like jasmine or basmati)

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (optional)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

    Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

      Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the rice, dried Italian herbs, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

        Blend in Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

          Combine Everything: Add the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet. Ensure they are submerged in the rice mixture. If using, stir in the chopped spinach.

            Cook Together: Cover the skillet and let the mixture cook over low heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Check occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom. If needed, add a little more chicken broth.

              Final Touch: Once the rice is cooked, check the seasoning and adjust with additional salt and pepper if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

                Serve: Spoon the creamy chicken and rice onto plates, making sure to get a nice portion of chicken and sauce with each serving. Enjoy your comforting and nutritious meal!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings