Description
A comforting and creamy chicken and rice dish made with tender chicken breasts, aromatic spices, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, all cooked together in one skillet for a flavorful and easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
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
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup long-grain rice, such as Jasmine
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Combine the chicken cubes with sweet paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, coating the pieces evenly. Set the seasoned chicken aside to let the flavors meld.
- Cook the onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it is no longer pink in the center and is cooked through.
- Add rice and broth: Stir in the Italian seasoning, long-grain rice, and low-sodium chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the mixture simmer gently for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Finish the dish: Pour in the heavy cream and add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well and cook until the rice absorbs the cream and the sauce becomes creamy and thick. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though it will be less rich.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- If you prefer spicier food, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the onions.
- Ensure the skillet is covered during simmering to properly cook the rice.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently to prevent the cream from separating.
