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Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Recipe


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3.9 from 65 reviews

  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice is a comforting, easy one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, fluffy long-grain rice, and a rich garlic butter flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish features flavorful seared chicken cooked together with garlic, onions, and chicken broth, resulting in a complete and satisfying family-friendly dinner with minimal cleanup.


Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

Rice and Broth

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth

Seasonings and Flavorings

  • 4 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Finish and Garnish

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped


Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then season evenly with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to build the base flavor.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat until melted and hot. Add the chicken and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside on a plate.
  3. Sauté Onion: Into the same pot, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and chopped onion. Cook over medium heat until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  5. Toast the Rice: Add the rice to the pot and stir frequently for about 2 minutes to lightly toast it, which enhances its nutty flavor and helps it absorb the broth better.
  6. Add Broth and Combine: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot with a spoon to release any browned bits for added flavor. Return the seared chicken to the pot, nestling it gently into the rice and broth mixture.
  7. Simmer and Cook: Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
  8. Rest and Fluff: Remove the pot from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to finish steaming. Then fluff the rice gently with a fork.
  9. Finish and Serve: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley over the top, and serve warm for a flavorful, comforting meal.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for a richer, juicier flavor; chicken breasts also work well for a leaner option.
  • Feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, or green beans for added nutrition and color.
  • To add brightness, include lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water.
  • To make the dish creamier, stir in some heavy cream, cream cheese, or extra Parmesan cheese at the end of cooking.
  • If using brown rice, increase the broth amount and extend cooking time accordingly.
  • For spice lovers, add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or diced jalapeños during cooking.
  • This dish freezes well; cool completely and freeze in airtight containers, thaw in the fridge before reheating.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American