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Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice: Your New Weeknight Comfort Food

Close-up of creamy one pot chicken and rice topped with shredded cheese and fresh parsley.

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Make this easy One Pot Chicken and Rice for a hearty, minimal cleanup dinner. Tender chicken and fluffy rice cook together in one pot with savory garlic and rich Parmesan cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.5 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let it burn.
  4. Add the uncooked rice to the pot and stir it with the garlic for 1 minute to toast the grains lightly.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the liquid to a simmer.
  6. Return the browned chicken to the pot. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  7. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the mixture is creamy.
  8. Let the one pot chicken and rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes before serving.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley before you serve this easy one pot dinner.

Notes

  • For juicier chicken thighs and rice, ensure your heat is low once the pot is covered to allow slow absorption of the broth.
  • If you prefer chicken breasts, cut them into larger chunks and add them back in during the last 10 minutes of simmering to prevent overcooking.
  • This recipe works well for meal prep; store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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