Here is the recipe for One Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice:
**Ingredients:**
* 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 cup uncooked white rice
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 small onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly shredded is best)
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon paprika
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional)
**Cooking Steps:**
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes. The rice should be lightly toasted.
5. Add the chicken broth to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
6. While the rice is cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cream has thickened slightly. Remove from heat.
7. Stir the Parmesan cheese into the cream mixture until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
8. Once the rice is cooked, stir the browned chicken, cream sauce, and Parmesan cheese into the rice mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is coated in the sauce.
9. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped parsley and basil (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
10. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.
**Tips for Making One Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice Tastier:**
* Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh vegetables, real Parmesan cheese, and good-quality chicken broth will make a big difference in the flavor of the dish.
* Don't overcook the rice: Cooking the rice until it's tender but still slightly firm will help it retain its texture and prevent it from becoming mushy.
* Cook the chicken evenly: Make sure to cook the chicken until it's browned on all sides and cooked through to ensure even flavor and texture.
* Don't leave the cream sauce too thick: If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it with a little more chicken broth or cream. If it's too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
* Add your own twist: Consider adding other ingredients to make the dish your own. Some ideas include:
* Diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture
* Cooked Italian sausage or bacon for a smoky flavor
* Roasted garlic or lemon zest for added depth of flavor
* Chopped olives or capers for a salty, savory flavor
* Fresh mint or thyme for a bright, herbaceous flavor
**Variations:**
* **Mexican-inspired:** Add diced jalapeños, black beans, and diced tomatoes to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Top with crumbled queso fresco and chopped cilantro.
* **Italian-inspired:** Add chopped artichoke hearts and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Top with shaved Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil.
* **Spicy:** Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Stir in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
* **Seafood-inspired:** Add cooked shrimp, scallops, or crab to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Stir in some lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley.
I hope you enjoy this recipe! Let me know if you have any questions or if you'd like any variations or substitutions.
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