**One-Pan Parmesan Chicken & Rice with Creamy Sauce**

If you're looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make meal that requires minimal cleanup, look no further than this One-Pan Parmesan Chicken & Rice with Creamy Sauce. Combining juicy chicken breasts with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce and perfectly cooked rice, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or when you simply want a comforting meal without a lot of fuss. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this delicious one-pan wonder.

### **Ingredients**

- **Chicken*
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- **Rice*
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream

- **Creamy Parmesan Sauce*
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

### **Instructions**

#### **1. Preheat the Oven*
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the dish cooks evenly and the chicken reaches the perfect level of tenderness.

#### **2. Season and Sear the Chicken*
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds a delicious caramelization to the chicken. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

#### **3. Toast the Rice*
In the same skillet, add the uncooked rice and cook it for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This toasts the rice lightly, enhancing its flavor and adding a nice texture to the final dish.

#### **4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce*
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine with the rice. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and dried Italian seasoning, mixing well. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

#### **5. Combine and Bake*
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them on top of the rice mixture. This ensures the chicken is cooked through while the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors from the sauce. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should be fully cooked, and the rice tender.

#### **6. Garnish and Serve*
Once the dish is done baking, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, adding a touch of color and freshness to your meal.

### **Tips for Success**

- **For Extra Creaminess* If you prefer an even richer sauce, stir in a little more grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.
- **Vegetable Additions* You can enhance the dish by adding vegetables like peas, spinach, or bell peppers. Simply stir them in with the rice mixture before baking.
- **Check for Doneness* Ensure that the chicken is fully cooked by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The rice should be tender and have absorbed most of the sauce.

### **Why You'll Love This Recipe**

This One-Pan Parmesan Chicken & Rice with Creamy Sauce is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. The creamy Parmesan sauce pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken and fluffy rice, making every bite a comforting experience. Plus, with minimal cleanup thanks to using just one pan, you’ll have more time to enjoy your meal and relax.

Whether you're cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a versatile and delicious choice. Enjoy the simplicity of a one-pan meal without compromising on taste or comfort.

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