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Easy One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

one pot creamy garlic parmesan chicken and rice - featured image

A comforting, one-pot weeknight dinner featuring tender chicken thighs, fluffy long-grain rice, and a rich, velvety garlic parmesan sauce. This recipe emphasizes proper heat control to prevent burning garlic and ensure a smooth, creamy texture without constant stirring.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 45 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside, leaving rendered fat in the pan.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and stir constantly for 30-60 seconds until fragrant and light golden (do not brown).
  4. Add uncooked rice to the pot and stir for 1-2 minutes to toast and coat in butter.
  5. Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release browned bits. Stir to combine.
  6. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  7. Check rice for tenderness. If liquid remains, simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes. Remove pot from heat.
  8. Stir in heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If too thick, add a splash of broth or water.
  9. Return chicken and any juices to the pot, nestling into the rice. Cover and let rest for 5 minutes.
  10. Sprinkle with dried parsley and serve.

Notes

Do not lift the lid while the rice is simmering to ensure even cooking. Always remove the pot from heat before adding cheese to prevent separation. Use fresh minced garlic for best flavor; avoid jarred garlic. If using chicken breasts, reduce cooking time to prevent drying out.

Nutrition

Keywords: one pot meal, chicken and rice, creamy garlic parmesan, weeknight dinner, easy recipe, comfort food, gluten-free option