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If you love meals that are comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, then you are going to adore this One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Mushroom Rice Recipe. It combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and rich parmesan cheese all cooked together with fluffy rice in one pan, creating a harmony of tastes and textures that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without extra fuss, delivering a creamy, savory delight that’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Mushroom Rice Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is straightforward but essential, bringing together taste, texture, and vibrant colors to make every bite memorable.
- 1 pound diced boneless skinless chicken breast: Provides the lean protein base, tender and juicy when cooked just right.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken to develop deep flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs to boost that savory profile with subtle aromatic notes.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors, making everything pop.
- Ground black pepper to taste: Adds a gentle warmth and mild spice.
- 1 cup uncooked long grain rice: The comforting starch that absorbs all the delicious flavors and stays fluffy.
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth: The flavorful cooking liquid that lets the rice and chicken meld beautifully.
- 6 ounces sliced mushrooms (about 1 cup): Brings an earthy, meaty texture and umami richness to every mouthful.
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream: Makes the dish luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty highlights that lift the entire dish.
How to Make One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Mushroom Rice Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
The very first step is to heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in your diced chicken breast seasoned with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook it gently until the chicken is no longer pink inside and has a beautiful golden sear outside. This step locks in juiciness and infuses the meat with herbaceous flavors, setting the stage for the whole dish.
Step 2: Add Rice, Broth, and Mushrooms
Once your chicken is perfectly cooked, add the uncooked rice, chicken broth, and sliced mushrooms directly into the same skillet. This one-pot method saves time and cleanup while allowing all the ingredients to mingle and build depth. Simmer everything together, letting the rice soak up that flavorful broth and the mushrooms soften, making the dish heartier and richer in texture.
Step 3: Stir in Cream and Parmesan
When the rice is tender and the broth mostly absorbed, it’s time to stir in the heavy whipping cream and shredded parmesan cheese. Keep the skillet over low heat and gently simmer, watching the sauce thicken into a luscious, glossy coating. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. This final creamy touch gives the dish its signature velvety texture and savory finish.
How to Serve One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Mushroom Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a little extra shredded parmesan on top just before serving adds an irresistible sharpness and a lovely visual appeal. Fresh parsley or chives can also add a vibrant pop of green and a fresh herbal aroma that balances the richness seamlessly.
Side Dishes
This dish is wholesome on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for added color and nutrients. Lightly roasted garlic green beans are another fantastic partner, complementing the creamy texture with their bright crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
To elevate presentation, try serving the creamy chicken and mushroom rice in mini cast iron skillets or rustic ceramic bowls, allowing each guest to enjoy their own cozy portion. You can also garnish with edible flowers or microgreens to add an unexpected gourmet touch that impresses without extra work.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for even tastier meals the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Mushroom Rice Recipe for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to keep the dish fresh. Be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring often. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream during reheating helps revive the creamy consistency and prevents drying out.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of long grain rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and more chewiness, but keep in mind it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust your cooking accordingly for the best results.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer, and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy. The texture and taste will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Spinach, bell peppers, or peas work wonderfully and can be added during the simmering stage with the rice to boost nutrition and color.
What cut of chicken works best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal because they cook quickly and absorb flavors nicely. However, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier, richer result.
Do I need to rinse the rice before cooking?
Rinsing rice is optional. Rinsing removes excess starch that can make the dish gummy, so if you prefer fluffier rice, give it a quick rinse under cold water before adding it to the skillet.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a dish that combines ease, flavor, and comfort so effortlessly like this One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Mushroom Rice Recipe. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a creamy, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen or making a mountain of dishes. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become one of your favorite quick dinners to share with family and friends.
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Print
One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Mushroom Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 5.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One Pot Creamy Parmesan Chicken with Mushroom Rice is a comforting, flavorful meal that combines tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and creamy parmesan-infused rice in a single skillet. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it offers richness without complicated steps or multiple pots.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 pound diced boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
Rice and Vegetables
- 1 cup uncooked long grain rice
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 6 ounces sliced mushrooms (about 1 cup)
Finishing Ingredients
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced chicken breast, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Rice, Broth, and Mushrooms: To the skillet with cooked chicken, add the uncooked long grain rice, chicken broth, and sliced mushrooms. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer. Cover and cook on low heat until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, approximately 15 minutes.
- Incorporate Cream and Parmesan: Stir in the heavy whipping cream and shredded parmesan cheese into the rice mixture. Continue simmering, uncovered, for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot as a satisfying one-pot meal.
Notes
- Use chicken broth with low sodium if you want to control salt intake.
- For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a milk alternative.
- Make sure to simmer the rice covered for even cooking and to avoid sticking.
- Fresh parsley adds a nice color and fresh flavor as a garnish.
- You can swap out long grain rice for jasmine or basmati for a different aroma.
