One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Vegetables Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed for 4 servings. Ingredient amounts adjust automatically, but cooking steps and times remain the same. Not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste
• 1 cup diced mushrooms
• 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced lengthwise
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 small zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced crosswise
• 1 cup matchstick-cut carrots
• 8 asparagus spears, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 3 ounces finely grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh flat-leaf parsley sprigs for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season with Italian herb seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. In a large non-stick skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Once hot and bubbling, add chicken thighs and sear for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook 5 more minutes until the juices run clear and an instant-read thermometer reads 165F (74C).
3. Transfer chicken to a serving platter and keep warm.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and butter. Stir in onions and red pepper flakes; cook 1-2 minutes. Add mushrooms and bell peppers, stirring for 2 more minutes.
5. Add broccoli, zucchini, and carrots; cook 1-2 minutes while stirring. Then add asparagus, tomatoes, and garlic; cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, stir in peas, then slowly add cream while stirring. Finally, mix in Parmesan cheese until combined.
7. To serve, place 2 chicken thighs on each plate and top with the creamy vegetable mixture. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Cook's Note

The goal is to keep vegetables vibrant and crisp-tender. For softer vegetables, cook them in the broth until desired texture before adding peas, cream, and Parmesan.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 850
• Total Fat: 53g (68% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 24g (118% DV)
• Cholesterol: 362mg (121% DV)
• Sodium: 1122mg (49% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 30g (11% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 8g (27% DV)
• Protein: 69g (139% DV)
• Vitamin C: 94mg (105% DV)
• Calcium: 315mg (24% DV)
• Iron: 5mg (28% DV)
• Potassium: 1448mg (31% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Nutrient data may vary; consult a healthcare provider if following a restrictive diet.

The Story Behind One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Vegetables

The One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Vegetables recipe is a modern American adaptation of classic Italian flavors. Parmesan cheese, a staple of Italian cuisine, has long been celebrated for its rich, nutty taste and ability to enhance simple ingredients. By combining chicken, a versatile protein, with a medley of fresh vegetables and a creamy Parmesan sauce, this dish reflects the growing trend of one-pan meals that are both convenient and flavorful. Its roots can be traced to mid-20th century home cooking, when busy families sought wholesome, easy-to-prepare dinners without compromising on taste.

Regional Variations and Influences

While this dish is widely popular across the United States, regional adaptations emphasize local produce and culinary preferences. In the Midwest, carrots, broccoli, and zucchini are often highlighted, reflecting the abundance of these vegetables. In coastal regions, chefs may incorporate fresh tomatoes or asparagus in larger quantities, taking advantage of seasonal availability. The creaminess of the sauce is often adjusted; southern versions might use heavier cream, while lighter variations on the West Coast favor half-and-half or milk to create a more delicate texture.

Distinguishing It From Similar Dishes

One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Vegetables differs from traditional Chicken Parmesan in that it does not involve breading or frying the chicken. Instead, the chicken is sauted until golden and then combined with a creamy vegetable sauce in the same skillet. Unlike casseroles, which bake all ingredients together, this recipe preserves the texture and color of the vegetables, offering a more vibrant presentation. Its one-pan preparation emphasizes ease, minimal cleanup, and a balance of protein and vegetables, making it a complete meal in itself.

Typical Serving Occasions

This dish is commonly served as a hearty family dinner or a casual weeknight meal. Its elegant appearance and flavorful sauce also make it suitable for small gatherings or dinner parties. Often plated individually with a garnish of fresh parsley, it can be accompanied by crusty bread or a side salad. In some households, leftovers are repurposed into sandwiches, wraps, or grain bowls, showcasing the versatility of this creamy chicken and vegetable combination.

Interesting Facts

• Parmesan cheese, used in this recipe, is aged for 12 to 36 months, giving it a distinct umami flavor that elevates simple dishes.
• One-pan meals like this became especially popular during the 21st century as home cooks sought recipes that minimized preparation and cleanup time.
• The combination of multiple colorful vegetables not only enhances visual appeal but also increases the nutritional profile, providing fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Adjusting the cream and cheese allows for customization of richness, making the recipe adaptable to dietary preferences or restrictions.
• The recipe encourages seasonal variations, allowing cooks to swap in vegetables like peas, squash, or bell peppers depending on local harvests.

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