Description
Enjoy a comforting and creamy Parmesan chicken rice dish featuring tender chicken breasts, rich Arborio rice, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. This delightful meal is perfect for impressing family and friends on any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Arborio rice (or any short-grain rice)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the dried Italian herbs, coating both sides evenly.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate, covering with foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Allow it to melt, then add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add the Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring to combine and allowing it to toast slightly for about 2 minutes.
- Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and stir well. Allow the rice to absorb the broth, stirring occasionally. Repeat this process until all 4 cups of chicken broth have been added, which should take about 20-25 minutes. The rice should be creamy and al dente when done.
- Once the rice is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and fully incorporated.
- Season with the remaining dried Italian herbs, adjusting salt and pepper to taste.
- Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Gently fold the sliced chicken into the creamy Parmesan rice mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Allow the dish to cook on low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken through.
- Remove the skillet from heat and serve the creamy Parmesan chicken rice onto plates or bowls.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and, if desired, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
- For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, peas, or mushrooms to the rice for added nutrition and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes