1. Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Why is seasoning important? It enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and ensures that every bite is delicious. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. This browning process creates a rich flavor and texture. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover it with foil to keep warm.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. The process of sautéing the onion allows it to release its sweetness, creating a flavorful base for the dish. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Pro Tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

3. Toast the Rice

Next, add the Arborio rice to the skillet and stir it with the onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes. This step helps to toast the rice, enhancing its flavor. It also prepares the rice to absorb the liquids you’ll add next. If you’re using long-grain white rice, follow the same steps; just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly.

4. Add the Liquids

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to incorporate any browned bits, as they add flavor to the dish. Note: If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add more broth or cream according to your taste.

5. Add Seasonings

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a pinch of salt or pepper, depending on your preference. The key to a well-seasoned dish is to taste as you go.

6. Combine Everything

Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the rice to cook and absorb the flavors of the sauce. If using Arborio rice, it should become creamy and tender. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t dry out; add a splash of broth if necessary.

7. Add Peas

After about 15 minutes, add the frozen peas to the skillet. Stir them in gently, then cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the peas are heated through and the rice is creamy and tender. The vibrant green color of the peas adds a beautiful contrast to the creamy sauce.

8. Serve and Garnish

Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Serving the dish directly from the skillet adds a rustic charm to your meal. For a more elegant presentation, you can plate the creamy chicken and rice in shallow bowls and drizzle extra sauce on top.