Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Rice Recipe
Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Rice is a comforting and hearty one-pan meal that combines tender diced chicken breast, fresh broccoli florets, and cooked rice, all enveloped in a rich and velvety Parmesan cheese sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, delivering a balanced blend of protein, vegetables, and creamy indulgence with every bite.
- 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 broccoli florets, fresh
Base
- 3 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
Dairy and Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. This prepares the pan for cooking the chicken evenly and prevents sticking.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the diced chicken breast to the hot oil and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, ensuring maximum flavor and perfect texture.
- Add Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute while stirring continuously. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can develop bitterness and affect the dish’s taste.
- Incorporate Broccoli: Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn tender but retain a vibrant green color and slight crunch.
- Pour in the Cream: Slowly add 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Mix in Rice and Cheese: Add the cooked rice and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the rice is coated in the creamy sauce.
- Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir once more to combine and serve the dish hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breast with turkey or tofu for a different protein option.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Cauliflower rice can be used to reduce carbs and calories.
- Other vegetables like spinach or green beans can replace broccoli if preferred.
- Grated Pecorino Romano can substitute Parmesan cheese if needed.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference.
Keywords: Parmesan chicken, creamy chicken rice, broccoli rice skillet, one-pan chicken dinner, Parmesan chicken recipe, creamy broccoli chicken, quick chicken rice meal
