Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Skillet – Cozy One-Pan Sunday Dinner

There’s something truly special about a one-pan Sunday dinner — the kind that simmers gently on the stove while stories are shared and time seems to stretch just a little longer. This Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Skillet is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug. Rooted in simple, traditional home cooking, it brings together tender chicken, creamy rice, and the rich, nutty depth of Parmesan cheese in a way that’s both humble and deeply satisfying.

This dish was inspired by old-fashioned skillet suppers, where everything cooked together in one pan, allowing flavors to mingle and deepen naturally. The rice absorbs the seasoned broth and cream, the chicken stays juicy, and the Parmesan melts into a velvety sauce that coats every bite. It’s the kind of meal that doesn’t rush you — perfect for Sundays, family gatherings, or any evening when comfort matters more than complexity.

What makes this recipe especially beloved is its practicality. One pan means less cleanup, fewer distractions, and more time at the table. The ingredients are familiar and pantry-friendly, yet the result tastes rich and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or simply treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this skillet meal delivers warmth, nourishment, and asense of tradition that never goes out of style. Let’s cook something memorable together.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Skillet

For the Chicken:

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Rice & Sauce:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 3½ cups chicken broth, warm
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins (Traditional but Flexible):

• ½ cup mushrooms, sliced
• ½ cup frozen peas or spinach
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Print

Directions for Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Skillet

1. Begin by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This simple seasoning lays the foundation for deep, comforting flavor.
2. Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Sear for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken does not need to cook through at this stage. Remove it from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. As it melts, scrape up the browned bits from the bottom — this is where the flavor lives. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown.
5. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring well so each grain is coated in the buttery mixture. Toast the rice gently for 1–2 minutes to enhance its flavor.
6. Pour in the warm chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream. Stir slowly, then season with paprika, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
7. Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, along with any juices that collected on the plate. Spoon a little of the liquid over the chicken.
8. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for 18–22 minutes. The rice should be tender and the chicken fully cooked. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this releases steam needed to cook the rice evenly.
9. Once cooked, sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly over the skillet. Cover again for 2–3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt into the sauce.
10. Gently stir the rice around the chicken, creating a creamy, cohesive texture. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
11. Remove from heat and let the skillet rest uncovered for 5 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken naturally. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm straight from the pan. 🍽️

Notes for Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Skillet

• Chicken thighs provide extra juiciness and richness, but chicken breasts work beautifully if preferred.
• For extra creaminess, add an additional ¼ cup of Parmesan just before serving.
• If the rice absorbs liquid too quickly, add a splash of warm broth and gently stir.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
• Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove with a bit of broth or cream.

Nutritional Information for Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Skillet

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | 🔥 Cooking Time: 35 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 50 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~520 | 🍽️ Servings: 4–5

• Protein: High, thanks to tender chicken and Parmesan
• Carbohydrates: Balanced from rice for lasting energy
• Fats: Creamy but satisfying, perfect for comfort meals

If you enjoy practical dinners like this one, you may also love our collection of quick and easy meals that keep cooking simple without sacrificing flavor. Many of these recipes follow the same one-pan approach found in our most popular quick easy meals for busy weeknights.

#onepanchicken #creamyparmesan #sundaydinnerideas #comfortfoodclassic #skilletmeals #familydinner #homecookinglove

Bon appétit and happy cooking!

FAQs about Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice Skillet