Description
Parisian-inspired one-pan creamy parmesan chicken & rice melds comfort with elegance in a single skillet. Savory chicken nestles among herbed rice, promising a delectable meal that satisfies without complex preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsps (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup (190 g) uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup (30 g) baby spinach, chopped
- 2 tbsps fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Searing Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then sear until golden-brown on both sides, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Aromatic Base: Remove chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté diced onions until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Rice Preparation: Incorporate uncooked rice into the onion-garlic mixture, ensuring complete coating. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cheese Integration: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese into the simmering liquid, stirring to create a smooth, creamy texture.
- Final Cooking Stage: Return chicken to the skillet, nestling pieces atop the rice. Cover and reduce heat to low, allowing rice to steam and absorb flavors for 20-25 minutes.
- Optional Greenery: During the last 5 minutes, fold in chopped spinach for added nutrition and color.
- Serving Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately, ensuring a perfect blend of creamy rice and tender chicken.
Notes
- Chicken Searing Technique: Ensure skillet is hot enough to create a golden-brown crust without burning, which locks in moisture and enhances flavor.
- Rice Absorption Trick: Stir rice occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even liquid absorption for perfectly fluffy texture.
- Cream Separation Prevention: Add Parmesan cheese gradually and stir consistently to prevent curdling and maintain smooth, creamy consistency.
- Dietary Flexibility: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for dairy-free version, or use cauliflower rice for low-carb alternative without compromising taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg