Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice – A Simple Comfort Food Classic

This creamy Parmesan chicken and rice recipe is one of those comforting meals that always brings back warm memories of family dinners. It comes straight from my mother’s recipe box and was something she liked to make on cold winter evenings when everyone wanted a hearty, satisfying meal.

Tender pieces of chicken are simmered with rice in a savory broth, then finished with cream and Parmesan cheese to create a rich and comforting sauce. Everything cooks together in one skillet, which makes it simple to prepare and easy to clean up afterward.

Recipes like this remind us that good home cooking doesn’t need to be complicated. With a few basic ingredients and a little time on the stove, you can create a warm and comforting meal the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
4 Tbs. butter
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp. Italian seasoning
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
2 1/2 c. chicken broth
1 c. long-grain white rice
1/2 c. heavy cream
1/2 c. grated Parmesan cheese
Chopped parsley (optional garnish)

Directions: 

Melt the butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion begins to soften and become translucent.

Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Season with the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly so the garlic does not burn.

Pour in the chicken broth and add the rice. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.

Cover the skillet and simmer for 17–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Serve warm and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Tips for Best Success:

• Use long-grain white rice. This type of rice cooks evenly and absorbs the broth well without becoming mushy.
• Cut the chicken evenly. Uniform pieces help the chicken cook at the same rate.
• Stir occasionally while simmering. This helps prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
• Add the cream at the end. This keeps the sauce smooth and prevents the cream from separating.

 Variations and Substitutions:

• Use chicken thighs. Boneless chicken thighs add extra flavor and stay very tender.
• Add vegetables. Frozen peas, mushrooms, or chopped spinach can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Try brown rice. Brown rice can be used, but it will require additional cooking time and more broth.
• Add extra cheese. If you love Parmesan, sprinkle a little more on top before serving.
• Make it a little lighter. Half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream.

Serving Suggestions:

This creamy chicken and rice dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs nicely with simple side dishes.

Serve it with:

• Steamed green beans
• Roasted broccoli
• A crisp garden salad
• Buttery dinner rolls
• Garlic bread

A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds color and freshness.

How to Store:

Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing.

Place the chicken and rice in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.

To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a small splash of chicken broth or milk to help restore the creamy texture.

This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months, though the rice may soften slightly after thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the dish earlier in the day and reheat it gently before serving.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes. Stir in cooked shredded chicken during the final few minutes of cooking.

What type of rice works best?
Long-grain white rice is recommended because it cooks evenly and keeps a good texture.

Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, though the sauce will be slightly thinner. You may want to add a little extra Parmesan for thickness.

Can I cook this in a Dutch oven instead of a skillet?
Absolutely. A Dutch oven works very well and distributes heat evenly.

Perfection Salad

Old-Fashioned Perfection Salad with Pineapple and Cabbage

Perfection Salad is one of those wonderful vintage recipes that appeared on many family tables years ago. This recipe came from my mother's recipe box and was often served at family gatherings, church suppers, and holiday meals.

Even though it may sound unusual to combine vegetables with gelatin, the result is surprisingly light and refreshing. The finely shredded cabbage and carrots add a pleasant crunch, while the pineapple brings a touch of sweetness that balances the flavors beautifully.

My mother always liked recipes that could be made ahead of time, and this one was perfect. After a few hours in the refrigerator, the salad sets into neat slices that are easy to serve. It’s a colorful and nostalgic dish that still fits perfectly alongside many classic meals today.

Ingredients: 

1 c. cabbage, shredded very fine 
1/2 c. carrots, grated
1 8 oz. can crushed pineapple in juice, drain and save juice 
1(3ounce) box lime gelatin or orange
1 c. boiling water
1 c. water, with leftover pineapple juice

Directions: 

Using a food processor, finely shred the cabbage.  If you don't have a food processor, you can use a box grater.  I sometimes use a sharp knife and cut the cabbage in thin slices, then chop it up fine.

Next, grate the carrots. Add the cabbage and carrots into an 8x8 inch square dish, spreading them out evenly.  

Drain the crushed pineapple, reserving the juice in a measuring cup. Add ice to the juice until it measures 1 cup, then set aside. Spread the pineapple out over the cabbage and carrots.

In a medium bowl, pour in boiling water.  Add gelatin and stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Add the pineapple juice and ice mixture. Stir until the ice has fully melted, and the mixture is smooth.

Pour the gelatin mixture evenly over the cabbage, carrots, and pineapple in the dish. Gently stir to distribute the ingredients.

Refrigerate for about 2 hours, or until fully set.

Once firm, cut into 9 equal squares.  Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips for Best Success:

• Shred the cabbage very fine. This helps the salad hold together better and improves the texture.
• Make sure the gelatin is completely dissolved before adding the cold liquid to prevent lumps.
• Chill long enough. The salad needs at least two hours to fully set before cutting.
• Use cold pineapple juice mixture. This helps the gelatin set properly.

Variations and Substitutions: 

Different Gelatin Flavors
Lime gelatin is the traditional choice, but orange or lemon gelatin works well too.

Add Celery
Finely chopped celery adds additional crunch and flavor.

Add Nuts
Some people enjoy adding chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture.

Extra Fruit
You can add a small amount of mandarin oranges or chopped apples for additional sweetness. 

Serving Suggestions:

Perfection Salad pairs well with many classic family meals.

Serve it alongside:

• Baked ham
• Roast chicken
• Pork chops
• Meatloaf
• Holiday dinners
• Potluck meals
• Church suppers and family gatherings

Its refreshing flavor balances heavier main dishes nicely. 

How to Store:

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftover salad to an airtight container.

Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This salad is best served cold and freshly set. Freezing is not recommended, as gelatin does not hold its texture well after freezing and thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make Perfection Salad ahead of time?
Yes. This salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it several hours in advance or the night before serving so it has plenty of time to set.

Do I have to use lime gelatin?
No. Lime is traditional, but orange, lemon, or even pineapple gelatin will work.

Why does the cabbage need to be shredded so finely?
Finely shredded cabbage blends better with the gelatin and gives the salad a smoother texture.

Can I add other vegetables?
Yes. Finely chopped celery is a common addition that adds extra crunch.

Why do I add ice to the pineapple juice?
The ice cools the gelatin mixture quickly so it begins to set faster and evenly. 

Parmesan and Garlic Bread Rolls

Soft yeast rolls brushed with butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese 

This recipe comes straight from my mother’s recipe box — the kind of recipe written on a well-worn card, dusted with flour from years of use.

Garlic has always been a favorite in our home, and these rolls were often made alongside big family dinners. The smell of warm yeast bread rising in the kitchen and buttery garlic melting into the tops of freshly baked rolls is something I still remember so clearly.

These homemade garlic Parmesan dinner rolls are soft, fluffy, and full of savory flavor. Brushed with melted butter and topped with fresh garlic and finely grated Parmesan, they are simple enough for a weeknight meal and special enough for holidays.

Once you taste how light and tender these rolls are, they just might become a regular at your table too.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Dinner Rolls

3/4 c. milk
1/4 c. butter or margarine 
3/4 c. very warm water
2 envelopes, or 4 1/2 tsp. yeast
1 Tbs. sugar
4 1/2 to 5 c. all-purpose flour
1/3 c. sugar
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1 egg

For the Garlic Parmesan Topping:

1/4 c. butter or margarine, melted
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 c. Parmesan cheese, finely grated

Directions:

When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375°F and generously grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan. Set aside.

In a small saucepan, warm the milk and butter over very low heat. Heat just until the milk reaches 120°F—the butter does not need to melt. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool to 105–110°F. 

As the milk cools, it is time to proof the yeast.  In a medium bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir gently, then place the bowl in a warm spot for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy and bubbly.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, the remaining sugar, and salt. Pour in the warm milk mixture and the yeast mixture. Using a wooden spoon, beat for about 2 minutes, until smooth.

Add the egg and 1/2 cup of flour, then beat for another 2 minutes. Continue adding flour gradually until the dough becomes too thick to stir.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add additional flour as needed to form a soft dough—it should feel tacky but not sticky.

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size.

While the dough rises, melt the butter in a small saucepan and set aside. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic and Parmesan cheese. Set aside.

Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 20 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and arrange them evenly in the prepared baking pan.

Brush the tops of the rolls with the melted butter, then sprinkle the garlic-Parmesan mixture evenly over each roll.

Cover the pan with a tea towel, or a sheet of plastic wrap, and let the rolls rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Bake at 375°F for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and fragrant. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Best Success:

• Check your temperatures carefully. Milk mixture should cool to 105–110°F before adding to flour. Too hot can kill the yeast.
• Proof the yeast properly. It should become foamy and bubbly within 10 minutes. If not, the yeast may be expired.
• Don’t over-flour the dough. It should feel soft and slightly tacky, not dry.
• Knead until smooth and elastic. About 8–10 minutes by hand develops the gluten for fluffy rolls.
• Allow proper rise time. Rising in a warm, draft-free place helps create light rolls.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan. It melts and browns better than shelf-stable grated cheese.

 Variations and Substitutions:

• Add herbs: Mix in 1–2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning or chopped fresh parsley to the topping.
• Cheese swap: Try Asiago or Romano instead of Parmesan.
• Roasted garlic: Replace fresh garlic with roasted garlic for a sweeter flavor.
• Garlic butter inside: Brush a little garlic butter between layers for pull-apart style rolls.
• Make it plain: Skip the topping for classic soft dinner rolls.

 Serving Suggestions:

• Soups and stews
• Spaghetti or lasagna
• Roast chicken
• Holiday ham
• Beef roast dinners
• Salad and pasta meals

How to Store Garlic Parmesan Bread Rolls

Room Temperature:
Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container or a resealable bag and store at room temperature for up to 2 days. To freshen them up, warm the rolls in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes.

Refrigerator:
If you need to store them a bit longer, place the cooled rolls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Warm them gently in the oven or microwave before serving to soften them.

Freezer:
These rolls freeze very well. After they have cooled completely, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw at room temperature and warm in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes until heated through.

Tip:
If you plan to freeze the rolls, it’s best to freeze them without the garlic butter topping, then brush with melted butter and sprinkle garlic and Parmesan when reheating for the freshest flavor. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the dough up to the point of the final rise, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bring it to room temperature before baking.

Q: Can I freeze the rolls?
A: Absolutely! Bake the rolls, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour or other flours?
A: You can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour (up to 50%) for a nuttier flavor. Keep in mind the texture may be slightly denser.

Q: Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of fresh?
A: Yes, but fresh garlic provides the best flavor. If using pre-minced garlic from a jar, use about half the amount since it can be more concentrated and salty.

Q: Can I make smaller or larger rolls?
A: Absolutely! The baking time will vary slightly. Smaller rolls may bake in 12–14 minutes, while larger rolls may need 18–20 minutes.

Q: Can I make these rolls dairy-free?
A: Yes, substitute the butter with a non-dairy alternative (like vegan butter or coconut oil) and use plant-based milk instead of dairy milk. Flavor will remain delicious!

Q: How do I keep the tops crispy while still fluffy inside?
A: Brushing the rolls with butter before and after baking gives a golden crust, while the inside stays soft. Avoid covering tightly while they’re still warm, or the tops may become soggy.

Beef Taco Pie

 Beef Taco Pie

If you are short on time, then this recipe will serve you well for the supper dilemma of what to make. This recipe is a quick and easy way to get supper on the table in a hurry and only uses one skillet to prepare this meal in.  Top it with your favorite toppings of salsa, lettuce, sour cream and you have a great meal.  

This is one of our favorite go to recipes when we don't want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen cooking. 

Ingredients:

1 lb. ground beef

1 onion, chopped

1 red bell pepper, finely chopped

Salt and pepper to taste 

1 Tbs. chili powder

2 tsp. ground cumin

1 tsp. paprika (sweet or smoked)

1/2 tsp. dried oregano

1/2 tsp. onion powder

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

Pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes

1 can (4.5 oz) chopped green chiles, drained (optional)

2 eggs

1 c. milk

1/2 c. baking mix like Bisquick

3/4 c. shredded Monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese 

3/4 c. chopped tomato

 

Additional ingredients, if desired 

Shredded lettuce

Salsa

Sour cream

 

Directions:

 

Heat oven to 400°F. 

 

In an ovenproof cast iron skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef, onions and pepper until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

 

Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, onion powder, and garlic powder.

 

Top with chiles.

 

In a small bowl, beat eggs and milk together.  Add baking mix, mixing until blended. Pour the mixture evenly over the top of the ground beef mixture.

  

Bake about 25 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake another 2 to 3 minutes, or until cheese is melted. Cool 5 minutes. Serve with lettuce, salsa and sour cream. 

 

Pumpkin Bars with a Crust

 Pumpkin Bars with a Crust: An Easy, Rich Dessert Everyone Loves

Pumpkin desserts aren’t just for one season—they’re delicious any time of year. If you love pumpkin pie but want something a little easier to serve, these pumpkin bars with a crust are the perfect solution. This simple, family-favorite recipe combines a creamy pumpkin filling with an easy homemade crust for a dessert that’s great for gatherings, holidays, or everyday treats. With straightforward steps and familiar ingredients, these pumpkin bars come together effortlessly and always disappear fast.

When you hear the word pumpkin, your mind probably jumps straight to pumpkin pie and Thanksgiving. My family and I absolutely love pumpkin pie, but every once in a while, we like to enjoy those classic flavors in a different way.

Many years ago, a neighbor shared her pumpkin bars with us. They were incredibly delicious, but they didn’t have a crust. Since we’re big fans of a good crust, we decided to make our own. The crust is super easy to put together—so easy, in fact, that my kids were able to make it when they were younger.

This recipe may look a little long at first glance, but don’t let that discourage you. It’s actually very simple to prepare.

In no time, your home will be filled with the cozy aroma of pumpkin and warm spices baking in the oven. These pumpkin bars are rich, flavorful, and absolutely delicious—perfect for sharing (or not 😉).

 Crust

1 stick butter melted

1 1/4 c. flour

1/3 c. brown sugar

3/4 tsp. cinnamon

1/2 c. finely chopped pecans (optional)

Filling

1 – 29 ounce can of pumpkin or 3 cups pumpkin purée

1 c. firmly packed brown sugar

1/4 c. sugar
2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. cloves
5 eggs, lightly beaten
1– 12 ounce can evaporated milk

Topping

3/4 c. of flour
1/2 c. oatmeal
1/2 c. brown sugar
1/4 c. plus 2 tablespoons cold butter cut into small pieces
1/2 c. chopped pecans (optional)

 

Directions:

 

Preheat oven to 350° F.   A 13×9-inch cake pan, ungreased.

Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat so it doesn't burn. Remove from heat. Stir in the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.  If you wish to add pecans, this is the time to mix them in as well. Mix thoroughly to combine.

Press the mixture into the cake pan. Set aside while you prepare the pumpkin filling.

 

In a large bowl, combine pumpkin, brown sugar and white sugar together.  Mix well.

 

Stir in the cinnamon, ginger and cloves. 

 

Add the lightly beaten eggs, mixing until the batter is smooth. Continue to stir the pumpkin mixture as you slowly pour in the milk.  Mix thoroughly.

Pour this mixture over the prepared crust.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until partially set. You do not want the pumpkin completely cooked yet.  

 

While the pumpkin is in the oven, assemble the topping. 

 

Combine the flour, oatmeal, and brown sugar into a medium-sized bowl. 

 

Add the cubed butter.  Using a pastry knife or two knives held together in one hand, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it becomes small particles about the size of peas. At this point, you can add the pecans if you desire.  Set aside.

Remove the pumpkin from the oven at the end of 25 to 30 minutes baking time.  Sprinkle the oatmeal, flour mixture over the top of the partially baked pumpkin. Return the pan into the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Allow the pumpkin to cool before serving it with a dollop of whip cream. You can even add a sprinkle of cinnamon over the top, if desired.

 Pull Apart Garlic Bread

 

We love the taste of garlic at our house.  And that is a good thing because garlic is healthy for you.  This is an easy recipe so you can make your own garlic pull apart bread.  This fluffy bread is rich with the flavors of garlic, and butter.  

Garlic has been around for thousands of years. It can help protect you for a cold, It contains allicin, which acts as an antibiotic. It is good for your heart, it can help protect the liver from damage, improve bone health and protect against cancer.  

Dough

1/2 c. warm water
1 pkg. active dry yeast
1 Tbs. honey or sugar
1/2 c. warm milk
3 c.  flour
2 Tbs. butter, softened
1 tsp. salt

Garlic Butter Topping

5 Tbs. butter
2 to 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tsp. parsley
2 tsp. Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp. salt

Directions

Set oven temperature to 350° when ready to bake. One 8 x 4 inch loaf pan, greased or buttered.

In a large mixing bowl, combine water, yeast, and honey.  Place in a warm location for 8 to 10 minutes until foamy.  

Add in milk, 1 cup flour, butter, and salt. Beat with a wooden spoon for 1 to 2 minutes. Gradually stir in the remaining flour until the dough becomes too stiff to stir.  

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.  

Knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.  Add more flour as needed. 

Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl. I use the same bowl that I mixed the dough in. Cover the bowl with a tea towel and place the bowl in a warm location until doubled in size.  This can take about an hour or a little longer depending on how warm the location is.

Make the garlic butter:

In a small saucepan, over low heat, melt the butter. 

Stir in the garlic, parsley, and Italian seasoning. Cook over low heat for 2 minutes, stirring frequently, so the garlic and butter do not burn.  Remove from heat and set aside while you shape the dough.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.  Cut the dough into small 1 inch pieces.  Dip the bread into the warm, but not hot, garlic butter. Coat all sides of the dough pieces in the garlic butter, then, place them into the prepared loaf pan. Continue until every piece of dough is coated with the garlic butter and piled into the loaf pan.

Cover the pan with a tea towel and place it in a warm location for about an hour. Let rise until doubled in bulk.  Remove the tea towel.

Place the loaf pan in the oven and turn the oven on to 350°.  Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until golden brown.   

Baste the remaining butter mixture over the pull apart bread after you remove it from the oven.  You can also dip the pieces of bread in the butter mixture as well. Let rest for about 10 minutes before removing the pull apart bread from the pan.

Serve and enjoy.  They are always the best while warm from the oven.  

Spicy Mustard Chicken

This chicken recipe is quick and easy to prepare. You can prepare the dish in the morning and allow the chicken to marinate until supper time, or you can prepare the dish when you are ready to start supper.  The baked chicken meat turns out tender, juicy and flavorful from the tangy mustard marinade.

Ingredients

6 to 8 chicken thighs
1 onion, chopped or cut into half rings or 3/4 c. sliced shallots
2 Tbs. spicy mustard *See notes
2 Tbs. tomato paste
2 Tbs. lemon juice
2 Tbs. olive oil
1 tsp. dried thyme
1 to 2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp.  pepper
1/2 tsp. red chili pepper flakes

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°. Spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.

Put the chicken in the baking dish.

In a small bowl, combine mustard, tomato paste, olive oil, thyme, garlic, salt, pepper, and red chili pepper flake. Mix well.

Pour the marinade over the chicken. Turn the chicken over to coat both sides. Place chicken skin side up in the baking dish.

Scatter the onions over the top, allowing them to go between the chicken thighs.

Bake the chicken, uncovered, for 40 to 45 minutes until chicken is fully cooked, and the internal temperature is 175°F on a meat thermometer.

Serve warm. 

Notes:

I use spicy mustard, but you can use Dijon, or the mustard of your choice.