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Creamy One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

creamy one-pot garlic parmesan chicken and rice - featured image

A rich and comforting one-pot meal featuring juicy chicken thighs and creamy Arborio rice cooked in a garlic-Parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious, stress-free dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 46 thighs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.5 cups Arborio rice
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs in a single layer and sear for 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook another 4-5 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same pot, scraping up browned bits. Add minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat in garlic butter. Cook for 1-2 minutes until rice turns slightly translucent at the edges.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and dried thyme. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
  6. Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the pot, including any juices. Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer gently for 20 minutes. Do not lift the lid.
  7. After 20 minutes, remove the lid. Carefully remove chicken thighs and set aside. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring for 1-2 minutes until sauce is creamy and thickened.
  8. Return chicken to the pot, spooning creamy rice over the top. Let rest off the heat for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan and avoid stirring once the liquid is added to prevent mushy rice. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot chicken and rice, creamy garlic parmesan chicken, easy weeknight dinner, comfort food, one-pot meal