Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Recipe

When it comes to comforting, easy-to-make dinners, Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice is a standout. This one-pan dish brings together tender, juicy chicken, and flavorful, buttery rice in a harmony of flavors that’s hard to beat.

Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a satisfying and hearty meal on the table in no time.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment

Essential Tools

• Large skillet or frying pan with a lid
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs or breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mix all over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the pan. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Rice

1. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and slightly golden.
2. Cook the Rice: Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring to coat the grains in the garlic butter. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly.
3. Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. If you prefer creamier rice, you can also add the heavy cream at this stage. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken and Rice Together

1. Return the Chicken to the Skillet: Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, nestling it into the rice.
2. Cover and Cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the chicken and rice cook together for about 20-25 minutes. The rice should be tender, and the chicken should be cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 4: Add Finishing Touches

1. Add Parmesan (Optional): If you like, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the rice and chicken during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt and enhance the flavors.
2. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the chicken and rice hot, straight from the skillet.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes

• Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots complements the rich flavors of the dish.
• Simple Salad: A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any extra garlic butter sauce.

Wine Pairing

• White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the garlic and butter notes in the dish.

Tips for Success

Choosing the Right Chicken

• Thighs or Breasts: Both chicken thighs and breasts work well, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful during cooking.

Perfecting the Rice

• Toasting the Rice: Don’t skip the step of toasting the rice in the garlic butter. This adds a depth of flavor and helps the rice cook more evenly.
• Checking for Doneness: If the rice isn’t fully cooked but the liquid has evaporated, add a bit more broth or water and continue cooking.

Variations to Try

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice

• Add a Citrus Twist: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and rice before serving for a bright, zesty flavor.

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice

• Extra Cheese, Please: Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese into the rice for an ultra-creamy, cheesy version.

Herb-Infused Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice

• Boost the Flavor: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the butter when sautéing the garlic for an herbaceous twist.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice is a dish that brings together everything you love in a comforting meal: tender chicken, flavorful rice, and the irresistible aroma of garlic and butter. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just looking for a satisfying solo meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead and reheated. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, milk, or even just stick with chicken broth for a lighter version.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth, this dish is naturally gluten-free.

Yield: 4

Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Recipe

Print

When it comes to comforting, easy-to-make dinners, Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice is a standout. This one-pan dish brings together tender, juicy chicken, and flavorful, buttery rice in a harmony of flavors that’s hard to beat. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a satisfying and hearty meal on the table in no time.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 35 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
   Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
   Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
   
2. Cook the Garlic and Onion:
   In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
   Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
   
3. Cook the Rice:
   Stir in the rice, allowing it to toast slightly in the garlic butter for about 1-2 minutes.
   Add the chicken broth, water, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Stir to combine.
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
   
4. Combine and Serve:
   Once the rice is cooked, return the chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the rice.
   Cover and let the chicken warm through for about 5 minutes.
   Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

Chicken: You can use bone-in chicken thighs for extra flavor, but adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Rice: For a different texture, try using jasmine or basmati rice. Brown rice can also be used but may require a longer cooking time and additional liquid.

Add-Ins: Feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach to the rice for a more complete meal.

Flavor Boost: A splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese at the end adds a nice tangy and savory note to the dish.

Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to moisten the rice.

Yield: 4

Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Recipe

Print

When it comes to comforting, easy-to-make dinners, Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice is a standout. This one-pan dish brings together tender, juicy chicken, and flavorful, buttery rice in a harmony of flavors that’s hard to beat. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a satisfying and hearty meal on the table in no time.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 35 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
   Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
   Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
   
2. Cook the Garlic and Onion:
   In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
   Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
   
3. Cook the Rice:
   Stir in the rice, allowing it to toast slightly in the garlic butter for about 1-2 minutes.
   Add the chicken broth, water, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Stir to combine.
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
   
4. Combine and Serve:
   Once the rice is cooked, return the chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the rice.
   Cover and let the chicken warm through for about 5 minutes.
   Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

Chicken: You can use bone-in chicken thighs for extra flavor, but adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Rice: For a different texture, try using jasmine or basmati rice. Brown rice can also be used but may require a longer cooking time and additional liquid.

Add-Ins: Feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach to the rice for a more complete meal.

Flavor Boost: A splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese at the end adds a nice tangy and savory note to the dish.

Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to moisten the rice.