Cozy One-Pan Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe for Busy Nights

Crafting a delectable one-pan parmesan chicken and rice dish promises a hassle-free culinary adventure.

Weeknight dinners demand smart solutions that minimize cleanup while maximizing flavor.

Comfort meets convenience in this streamlined meal that combines tender chicken with creamy, cheesy rice.

parmesan nutty essence infuses every bite with rich, satisfying notes.

Simple ingredients dance together in a single skillet, creating magic without complicated techniques.

Home cooks appreciate meals that taste extraordinary yet require minimal effort.

You’ll fall in love with how quickly this recipe comes together, making dinnertime a breeze.

Why You’ll Enjoy One-Pan Parmesan Chicken and Rice

• One-pan magic eliminates multiple dishes and complicated cooking steps, making meal preparation a breeze for busy home cooks.
• Parmesan-crusted chicken paired with creamy seasoned rice creates a delicious blend of textures and tastes that satisfy comfort food cravings.
• Kids and adults will love the crispy chicken coating and cheesy rice, making it a crowd-pleasing dinner option that appeals to different palates.
• This recipe works perfectly for quick dinners, requires minimal ingredients, and transforms basic chicken and rice into an elevated, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients for One-Pan Parmesan Chicken and Rice

• Chicken Breasts: Tender, juicy centerpiece of the dish.

• Rice: Soft base that absorbs flavors and complements chicken.

• Parmesan Cheese, Breadcrumbs: Crispy coating that adds rich, cheesy flavor.
• Eggs: Binding agent for breading.
• Garlic Powder, Italian Seasoning: Aromatic spices that enhance overall taste.

• Olive Oil: Helps brown chicken and adds subtle flavor.
• Chicken Broth: Provides moisture and depth to rice.
• Butter: Creates creamy, rich texture for rice.

• Fresh Parsley: Optional herb for bright, fresh garnish.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Basic seasonings for enhancing overall taste.

Cooking Instructions for One-Pan Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Turn on the oven and set the temperature to 375°F.

This will help create the perfect cooking environment for your delicious meal.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle salt and pepper generously over both sides of the chicken breasts.

This will help build a delightful flavor profile.

Step 3: Create a Crispy Coating

• Parmesan cheese
• Breadcrumbs
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs.

Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, then roll it thoroughly in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture to create a crunchy exterior.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the hot skillet.

Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown color.

Step 5: Build the Rice Base

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside momentarily.

Add rice to the same skillet, stirring to coat it with the remaining oil and delicious browned bits.

Pour in chicken broth and sprinkle additional garlic powder for extra flavor.

Step 6: Combine and Bake

Gently place the seared chicken breasts on top of the rice in the skillet.

Cover with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer to the preheated oven.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the rice becomes tender and the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 7: Add Final Touches

Remove the skillet from the oven and take out the chicken breasts.

Stir butter and the remaining Parmesan cheese into the rice, creating a creamy and luxurious texture.

Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it on top of the rice.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness.

Serve the one-pan meal immediately and savor every delicious bite!

Smart Tips for One-Pan Parmesan Chicken and Rice

• Pat chicken dry before breading to help the coating stick better and create a crispier texture.
• Use long-grain white rice for the best consistency and even cooking throughout the dish.
• Ensure the skillet is hot before adding chicken to achieve a golden-brown crust without soggy breading.
• Freshly grated Parmesan provides more flavor and melts more smoothly than pre-packaged grated cheese.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.

Best Way to Store and Reheat One-Pan Parmesan Chicken and Rice

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, the dish will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe containers. Chicken and rice can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing quality.
• Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, sprinkle a few drops of water or chicken broth to prevent drying. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until heated through.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Transfer leftovers to an oven-safe dish, add a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture. Cover with foil and warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Perfect Pairings with One-Pan Parmesan Chicken and Rice

• Elevate Flavor Harmony: Chicken and Rice Pairing Ideas
• Complement Creamy Parmesan with Crisp White Wine: Choose a chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the richness of the cheese and provide a refreshing contrast.
• Brighten the Plate with Zesty Side Salad: Toss together a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, cherry tomatoes, and shaved Parmesan to add fresh, tangy notes that balance the hearty main dish.
• Enhance Comfort with Roasted Vegetable Medley: Prepare a simple side of roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus with garlic and olive oil to add nutritious green elements and provide textural variety to the meal.
• Refresh with Citrus-Infused Sparkling Water: Create a light, palate-cleansing drink by adding fresh lemon or orange slices to sparkling water, offering a crisp and clean accompaniment that complements the rich chicken and rice.

Flavorful Options for One-Pan Parmesan Chicken and Rice

• Low-Carb Cauliflower Rice Option: Replace traditional rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carbohydrate alternative. Follow the same cooking method, substituting cauliflower rice and adjusting cooking time to prevent overcooking.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almond meal for coating the chicken. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free to accommodate those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
• Dairy-Free Version: Swap Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a similar savory flavor. Use olive oil instead of butter and select a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit cheese completely while maintaining the recipe's core seasoning profile.
• Herb-Infused Variation: Experiment with different herb combinations like rosemary, thyme, or sage instead of Italian seasoning. Fresh herbs can add complexity and brightness to the chicken and rice dish, creating a unique flavor experience.

FAQs

• What makes the breading stick to the chicken?

The egg wash helps the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture adhere perfectly to the chicken, creating a crispy, flavorful coating that stays on during cooking.

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and adjust cooking time slightly as thighs might take a bit longer to cook.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This one-pan dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it excellent for preparing meals in advance.

• How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F. The chicken should look white throughout with no pink areas and have clear juices.

One-Pan Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe

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4.7 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Sizzling parmesan chicken and rice brings comfort straight from Italian kitchens to your dinner table. Creamy, cheesy goodness combines tender chicken with perfectly seasoned rice, creating a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth

Coating and Seasoning:

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (divided)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 2 large eggs
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Cooking Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Fresh parsley (chopped, optional for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Warm the cooking vessel to 375°F (190°C), preparing for a culinary adventure that combines crispy chicken with creamy rice.
2. Transform chicken breasts into flavor-packed morsels by seasoning generously with salt and pepper across both surfaces.
3. Create a tantalizing coating by blending Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in one vessel, while whisking eggs in another. Immerse each chicken piece first in egg, then thoroughly envelop in the cheesy crumb mixture.
4. Ignite a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Sear the breaded chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until achieving a golden, crisp exterior.
5. Evacuate chicken momentarily, then introduce rice to the skillet, allowing it to absorb the flavorful browned remnants. Saturate with chicken broth and sprinkle remaining garlic powder, stirring to distribute evenly.
6. Strategically position seared chicken atop the rice landscape. Seal the skillet with a protective lid or aluminum shield and slide into the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, ensuring rice tenderness and chicken’s complete cooking.
7. Extract the skillet from the oven, temporarily relocating the chicken. Incorporate butter and remaining Parmesan into the rice, creating a luxurious, molten texture. Reunite the chicken with its creamy rice foundation.
8. Elevate the presentation with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired, then serve this harmonious one-pan masterpiece immediately.

Notes

• Use a fork when dipping chicken in eggs and breadcrumbs to keep hands clean and ensure even coverage.
• Let chicken rest for a few minutes after breading to help the coating stick better during cooking.
• If rice seems dry during baking, add a splash more chicken broth to maintain moisture and prevent burning.
• Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond meal or crushed gluten-free crackers for a celiac-friendly version.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg