Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Rice Recipe
A comforting and flavorful One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Rice dish featuring tender chicken breast, fresh broccoli florets, and fluffy rice simmered in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Quick to prepare and perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb diced chicken breast
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
Base
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
Dairy and Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Flavorings
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. This prepares the pan for cooking the chicken evenly.
- Cook the Chicken: Add diced chicken breast to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, allowing the aroma to develop without burning the garlic.
- Incorporate Broccoli: Add broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender yet still vibrant green.
- Pour in the Cream: Pour 1 cup of heavy cream into the skillet, stirring gently, then bring the mixture to a simmer to meld the flavors.
- Mix in Rice and Cheese: Add 2 cups cooked rice and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Stir thoroughly to combine, letting the cheese melt into a creamy sauce that coats all ingredients.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Give the dish a final stir and serve hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a lighter dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- Can substitute chicken breast with turkey or tofu to suit dietary preferences.
- Other vegetables such as spinach or green beans can be used instead of broccoli for variation.
- Ensure garlic is not burned to avoid bitterness in the dish.
- Parmesan cheese can be replaced with Pecorino Romano if preferred.
Keywords: Creamy Parmesan Chicken, Broccoli Rice, One-Pan Meal, Easy Dinner, Chicken Recipe, Parmesan Chicken, Broccoli Recipe
