Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Rice Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Rice is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy Parmesan sauce over a bed of rice. It’s simple to make and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
• 1 pound diced chicken breast
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter/avocado oil)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers but does not smoke.
2. Step 2: Add the diced chicken breast and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. Step 3: Add the minced garlic and sauté for one minute, being careful not to burn it.
4. Step 4: Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender but still bright green.
5. Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to combine.
6. Step 6: Add the cooked rice and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until everything is well combined and creamy.
7. Step 7: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir once more and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
• Use half-and-half or milk mixed with a little flour if you want a lighter sauce.
• Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the dish a gentle spicy kick.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and offers more flavor than pre-grated varieties.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just thaw and drain it before adding to the skillet to avoid excess moisture.

Is it necessary to use Parmesan cheese?

Parmesan adds a distinctive savory flavor, but you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese you have on hand.

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 82 reviews

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Rice is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender sautéed chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and creamy Parmesan-infused sauce all blended with fluffy cooked rice. This easy skillet meal comes together quickly, delivering a rich, savory flavor profile with a satisfying creamy texture perfect for weeknight dinners.

• Author: Mia
• 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 1x2x3x

Proteins and Grains

• 1 cup cooked white or brown rice (or cauliflower rice for a lighter option)
• 1 pound diced chicken breast

Vegetables

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy and Oils

• ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter variation)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter/avocado oil)

Seasonings

• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the Olive Oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking, preparing the pan for cooking the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken: Add diced chicken breast to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through with a golden color.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, releasing a fragrant aroma without burning the garlic.
4. Incorporate Broccoli: Add broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender yet still vibrant green, adding crunch and nutrition.
5. Pour in the Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and gently stir to combine, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer to meld the flavors.
6. Mix in Rice and Cheese: Stir in the cooked rice and grated Parmesan cheese until the cheese melts and creates a rich, creamy sauce coating the ingredients.
7. Season and Serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste, give one final stir, and serve hot for a delicious, comforting meal.

Notes

• Use cooked rice prepared ahead of time or leftover rice to speed up the recipe.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half and use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
• Vegetarian option: Replace chicken breast with firm tofu or additional vegetables.
• Do not overcook garlic to avoid bitterness.
• Feel free to swap broccoli with spinach, green beans, or other favorite vegetables.
• Adjust seasoning to taste as Parmesan cheese adds saltiness.

Keywords: Creamy Parmesan Chicken, Broccoli Rice, One-pan chicken recipe, Easy weeknight dinner, Comfort food, Chicken and rice skillet