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One-Pan Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice (Easy!)

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This one-pan creamy garlic parmesan chicken and rice is a complete meal that comes together in a single skillet, meaning less cleanup and more time for you. The secret is a combination of heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan, and a splash of chicken broth, creating a luscious, velvety sauce that coats every grain of rice.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup Arborio rice (do not rinse)
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with salt and black pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, place chicken thighs in a single layer. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a clean plate.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add Arborio rice to the skillet. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until rice looks slightly translucent and smells nutty.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and dried thyme. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a gentle boil. Nestle seared chicken thighs back into the rice. Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 20-25 minutes. Do not lift the lid.
  6. After 20 minutes, check rice. It should be tender and most liquid absorbed. If still hard, add ¼ cup more broth or water and cook 5 more minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  7. Let the pan sit uncovered for 5 minutes to thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve directly from the skillet.

Notes

Do not substitute long-grain rice for Arborio; it won’t create the creamy sauce. Resist stirring once the broth is added to avoid gummy rice. For best results, sear the chicken to build flavor and moisture. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of broth or milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan, creamy garlic parmesan chicken and rice, easy weeknight dinner, one skillet meal, comfort food

Find it online: https://ovenmila.com/one-pan-creamy-garlic-parmesan-chicken-and-rice-easy/