Indulge in a comforting bowl of creamy parmesan chicken and rice, where tender chicken meets rich, savory flavors. This dish combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the wholesome goodness of rice, creating a meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe will become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 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
Per serving (1 cup): Calories: 540, Protein: 34g, Carbohydrates: 45g, Fat: 25g. This is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and add them to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Add Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring to coat in oil.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once rice is tender, stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese until creamy.
- Return chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute Arborio rice with any short-grain rice or even quinoa for a healthier option. Use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version, and feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy parmesan chicken and rice pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. A glass of white wine can enhance the meal further, making it perfect for a cozy dinner.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain creaminess. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t rush the browning of the chicken; it adds flavor.
- Ensure the rice is cooked thoroughly before adding cream.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor.
- Avoid overcooking the rice to prevent mushiness.
- Don’t skip the resting time for the chicken before slicing.
Helpful Tips
- For more flavor, marinate the chicken in garlic and herbs.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream for a subtle warmth.
- Experiment with different cheeses for variety.
- Use homemade broth for richer taste.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure to thaw it completely before cooking to guarantee even cooking and safety.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter for a lighter version, though the texture will be slightly different.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice and sauce ahead of time. Just combine and heat before serving for quick meal prep.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is gluten-free as long as you ensure your chicken broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream mixture for a spicy kick that complements the creamy flavors.
Conclusion
Creamy parmesan chicken and rice is a delightful dish that brings comfort to the dinner table. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight meal. Try this recipe today, and savor each creamy bite!
Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and add them to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Add Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring to coat in oil.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once rice is tender, stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese until creamy.
- Return chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
