Garlic Butter Chicken And Rice Dinner

Name: Garlic Butter Chicken And Rice Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups long-grain rice; 4 cups chicken broth; 4 tablespoons butter; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Favorite Comfort Food Collection

When I'm craving comfort food that doesn't skimp on flavor, this Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Dinner always hits the spot. The combination of juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, and fluffy rice creates a complete meal that is warm and inviting. I love how quickly everything comes together; it’s perfect for busy weeknights yet feels special enough for a cozy dinner at home. Plus, who can resist that rich garlic butter sauce that ties everything together? It’s a dish that makes me smile with every bite.

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-02-24T07:41:36.795Z

Every time I make Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice, I'm reminded of family gatherings where simple ingredients create unforgettable memories. The incredible aroma wafting through the kitchen as the chicken browns is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. I've found that using fresh garlic and good quality butter really elevates the dish, making it more than just another weeknight meal.

One tip I swear by is letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This keeps it juicy and flavorful, ensuring that every serving is as satisfying as the last. I can't tell you how many times this little detail has transformed my dinners!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory garlic butter sauce that enhances every bite
One-pot meal means fewer dishes and easier cleanup
Comforting flavors that remind you of home-cooked goodness

Mastering the One-Pot Technique

One of the biggest perks of this Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Dinner is its one-pot nature. Not only does this save on cleanup time, but it also helps the flavors meld beautifully. When sautéing the garlic in butter, make sure not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste. A medium heat is ideal for ensuring the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden without any bitterness. Using a non-stick skillet can also prevent sticking, ensuring the chicken cooks evenly.

To ensure even cooking of the chicken breasts, try to use pieces of similar size. Thicker pieces may need a few extra minutes, while thinner cuts will cook much faster. You can easily check doneness by slicing into the thickest part; it should be opaque and the juices should run clear. If you prefer, a meat thermometer can be your best friend here, with an internal temperature of 165°F confirming that your chicken is perfectly cooked.

Perfecting the Rice

Cooking the rice in chicken broth instead of water adds an extra layer of flavor, making it rich and savory. For optimal texture, be sure to follow the simmering instructions closely. Once you've brought the broth to a boil, lowering the heat sufficiently is crucial to prevent the liquid from evaporating too quickly. A gentle simmer with a lid tightly on the skillet allows the rice to absorb the broth without drying out.

If you find that your rice isn't cooking through, ensure that there's enough broth in the skillet. You can add a little more broth during the cooking process if necessary. Additionally, let the rice rest covered for 5-10 minutes after cooking; this allows residual steam to finish cooking the rice perfectly, giving it a light and fluffy texture rather than a gummy consistency.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables, adding brightness to the rich flavors. You can also elevate the meal by serving it with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. I love to add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving; it brightens the overall flavor and cuts through the richness of the garlic butter.

For a fun twist, consider adding veggies like peas or spinach during the last few minutes of simmering the rice. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant color to the dish. If you're looking for a low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice works as a great substitute; just sauté it separately and combine with the garlic butter before serving it alongside the chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups long-grain rice
4 cups chicken broth
4 tablespoons butter
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Adjust seasoning based on your preference.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Cook the Rice

Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat it in the garlic butter. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the broth.

Combine and Serve

Once the rice is tender, return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice. Cover and let it all heat through for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve hot with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in garlic and herbs for a couple of hours beforehand.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The chicken and rice will retain most of their flavor, but you may notice the rice has absorbed more of the Garlic Butter flavors over time, which can be quite delicious. Just ensure it's cooled down to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation.

When reheating, adding a splash of chicken broth can help revive the dish’s original moisture and flavor. Microwave it in short 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. Avoid high heat as this can lead to dry chicken or burnt rice.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of chicken breasts, thighs are a fantastic substitute due to their juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. For those looking to replace the rice, quinoa or farro can provide a hearty, nutty flavor, and they pair well with garlic. They typically require similar cooking methods but will need adjustments in liquid amounts and cooking times.

Butter can be swapped for olive oil for a lighter option or if you're aiming for a dairy-free meal. Keep in mind, though, that the flavor will change slightly, so consider adding a pinch of nutritional yeast to impart a cheesy taste if you’re missing that buttery richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, just keep in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook—follow the package instructions.

→ What can I substitute for chicken broth?

You can use vegetable broth or water, though it may alter the flavor slightly.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked chicken and rice in an airtight container for up to three months.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Adding peas, carrots, or bell peppers can enhance the dish and provide additional nutrients.