Description
This creamy chicken and rice recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken breasts with aromatic onions, garlic, and a blend of spices, all simmered together with long-grain rice in chicken broth. Finished with rich heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan, this comforting one-pan dish is perfect for a wholesome and hearty meal served in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into small bite-size cubes
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Rice and Liquids
- 1 cup long grain rice (such as Jasmine)
- 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, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken cubes with sweet paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to evenly coat the chicken pieces and set aside.
- Cook the onion and garlic: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes until soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside.
- Add rice and steam: Stir in the Italian seasoning, long grain rice, and chicken broth. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook undisturbed for 15 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquids and steam.
- Finish with cream and Parmesan: Remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook for a couple more minutes until the rice absorbs most of the cream and the dish becomes creamy.
- Garnish and serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use low sodium chicken broth to better control the salt level in the dish.
- Do not stir the rice while it is simmering to avoid releasing excess starch and ensure perfectly cooked grains.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the dish will be less creamy.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds more flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
