Description
This creamy chicken and rice recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken with aromatic spices and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Cooked together in one skillet, this comforting and easy-to-make dish yields a flavorful, hearty meal perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Base and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Rice and Liquids
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as Jasmine), rinsed
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Finishing Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken: In a bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with sweet paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to evenly coat the chicken with the spices. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add rice and broth: Stir in the Italian seasoning, rinsed rice, and low-sodium chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Do not stir during this time to allow the rice to cook properly.
- Finish with cream and cheese: Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently, until the rice absorbs most of the cream and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- Rinsing the rice helps remove excess starch for fluffier grains.
- Do not stir the rice while it simmers to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smooth melting.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of broth or cream.
