Zesty, creamy, and utterly comforting, this one-pot wonder is your ticket to a delicious dinner with minimal cleanup. Perfect for those busy nights when you crave something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
- One-pot means less cleanup and more time to relax after dinner.
- Creamy parmesan sauce elevates simple chicken and rice to gourmet status.
- Perfect balance of flavors with garlic, herbs, and parmesan.
- Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite veggies or proteins.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Heat olive oil in your pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pot to ensure even browning.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This builds the flavor base for your dish.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Add the rinsed rice to the pot, stirring to coat with the garlic and oil. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Tip: Resist the urge to peek; keeping the lid on ensures perfectly cooked rice.
Step 4: Add Cream and Parmesan
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese until well combined. The sauce should be creamy and slightly thick.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the chicken to the pot, stirring to combine with the rice and sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through. Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan if desired. Tip: Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer flavor, try browning the chicken in butter instead of olive oil. If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked chicken can speed up the process. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving, as the parmesan adds saltiness. To add a crunchy texture, top with toasted breadcrumbs or almonds before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add mushrooms and spinach for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or cheddar for an extra cheesy delight.
- Herby: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add a fresh twist.
- Protein Swap: Use shrimp or sausage instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but adjust cooking times accordingly as brown rice takes longer to cook. You may also need to add more liquid.
Is there a dairy-free alternative? Coconut milk can replace heavy cream, and nutritional yeast can stand in for parmesan for a dairy-free version.
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
Summary
This creamy parmesan one pot chicken and rice is a foolproof recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for any night of the week, it’s sure to become a family favorite.