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One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice

One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice

A comforting and flavorful one-pan meal that combines juicy chicken thighs, fragrant garlic butter, and perfectly cooked long-grain white rice. Ready in under 40 minutes, this recipe offers a hassle-free dinner option with minimal cleanup, rich taste, and versatile ingredients perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Grains

  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

Aromatics & Vegetables

  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium onion, diced

Liquids & Fats

  • 4 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by gathering all ingredients. Mince the garlic, dice the onion, and pat the chicken thighs dry to ensure proper searing.
  2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt half of the butter. Add the chicken thighs and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: Add the remaining butter to the same skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and diced onion, then stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened, taking care not to burn the garlic.
  4. Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the uncooked rice, coating each grain with the garlic butter mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  5. Combine and Simmer: Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the rice mixture. Cover the skillet tightly, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
  6. Finish and Garnish: Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for color and fresh herbal notes. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Dry the chicken thoroughly before searing to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
  • Use chicken broth instead of water to add depth and rich flavor to the rice.
  • Ensure the skillet is covered tightly during simmering to cook the rice evenly and trap moisture.
  • Use fresh garlic for best flavor; it delivers a richer and more vibrant taste than powdered garlic.
  • If rice is still firm when liquid is absorbed, add a splash more broth and cook a few minutes longer.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan, garlic butter chicken, chicken and rice, easy dinner, weeknight meal, skillet meal, comforting food