If you're looking for a quick, delicious, and comforting meal, Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice is the perfect recipe. This one-pan dish is packed with juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, buttery rice, and flavorful seasonings, making it a family favorite.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and is ready in just 30 minutes! Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a must-try.
Let’s get started!
Ingredients Required
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious meal:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Garlic Butter Rice:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Large skillet or pan with a lid
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, season the chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic Butter Rice
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the uncooked rice and stir for 1-2 minutes to coat it with the garlic butter.
- Pour in the chicken broth, add salt, and bring to a simmer.
- Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice cook for 15-18 minutes or until tender.
Step 3: Combine Everything
- Once the rice is fully cooked, fluff it with a fork.
- Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and mix it with the rice.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions for extra freshness.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of citrus flavor.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor—pre-minced garlic can have a milder taste.
- Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent stickiness.
- Don’t skip the butter! It adds richness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Want extra protein? Add shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a twist.
- Spice it up! Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a little heat.
Variations of the Recipe
1. Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice
- Stir in ½ cup of shredded parmesan or cheddar cheese at the end for a creamy texture.
2. Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice
- Add ¼ cup of heavy cream before serving for a rich, creamy version.
3. Veggie-Packed Version
- Toss in spinach, bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms for a healthier dish.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with:
- Roasted Vegetables – Such as broccoli, asparagus, or carrots.
- Fresh Salad – A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
- Garlic Bread – To soak up the extra buttery sauce.
How to Store and Reheat
Storing:
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water and heat over medium heat until warm.
- Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent drying out.
Freezing:
- Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice is the ultimate one-pan meal—easy, flavorful, and comforting. Whether you're making it for a quick dinner or meal prep, this recipe will never disappoint.
Try it tonight and let me know how it turns out!
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook. Increase the broth and cooking time to about 35-40 minutes.
2. What’s the best chicken to use?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for quick cooking.
3. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Sauté the chicken first, then add the rice and broth. Pressure cook on high for 5 minutes, then do a 10-minute natural release.
4. How do I make it dairy-free?
Replace the butter with olive oil or dairy-free butter.
5. Can I add more seasoning?
Absolutely! Try adding onion powder, Cajun seasoning, or Italian herbs for extra flavor.
