Description
Enjoy a comforting and creamy Parmesan chicken and rice dish, featuring tender chicken breasts and rich Arborio rice in a luscious cream sauce. Perfect for family dinners, this meal is sure to impress with its delightful flavors and creamy texture.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Arborio rice (or long-grain rice)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the dried Italian herbs, rubbing the seasoning into the chicken.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part; it should be no longer pink.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and cover with aluminum foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the Arborio rice and toast for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring until absorbed. Repeat this process until all 4 cups of broth are added, cooking for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is creamy and tender.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, adding remaining dried Italian herbs if desired.
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Gently fold the chicken into the creamy rice mixture, ensuring it is well-coated. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the mixture is too thick.
- Heat through for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and serve in bowls or on plates.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Notes
- This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated for leftovers.
- Feel free to customize the herbs and spices to your taste.
- For added flavor, consider adding vegetables like spinach or peas to the rice mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes