30-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken & Rice

In the whirlwind of weeknight dinners, finding a recipe that’s both quick and satisfying can feel like searching for a culinary unicorn. But let me tell you, this 30-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken & Rice is that unicorn! From the first tantalizing aroma of garlic sizzling in butter to the final flavorful bite, this dish has become a firm family favorite in our house. Even my pickiest eater, who usually eyes anything green with suspicion, devoured a whole plate, proclaiming it “the best chicken and rice ever!” The secret? It’s unbelievably easy to make, bursting with savory garlic butter goodness, and cooks up in just 30 minutes – perfect for those evenings when time is short but deliciousness is non-negotiable. If you’re looking for a recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen, look no further. This Garlic Butter Chicken & Rice is about to become your new go-to weeknight wonder.

Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts: 1.5 lbs, boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes. Provides the protein base of the dish and cooks quickly when cubed.
• Long Grain Rice: 1 cup, uncooked. Forms the hearty carbohydrate component, absorbing the flavorful sauce beautifully.
• Chicken Broth: 2 cups, low sodium. The cooking liquid for the rice, adding depth of flavor and ensuring perfectly cooked grains.
• Butter: 4 tablespoons, unsalted. The key to the rich, buttery flavor, also helps in browning the chicken and creating a luscious sauce.
• Garlic: 6 cloves, minced. The star aromatic, infusing the dish with its pungent and savory flavor. Freshly minced is highly recommended for the best taste.
• Dried Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon. Adds a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, enhancing the overall savory profile.
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon, smoked or sweet. Provides a subtle smoky or sweet note and beautiful color to the dish.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste. Enhances the flavors of all ingredients, essential for seasoning.
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground. Adds a touch of spice and depth, complementing the garlic and butter.
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped, for garnish (optional). Adds a fresh, vibrant finish and visual appeal.
• Lemon wedges: For serving (optional). A squeeze of lemon brightens the dish and cuts through the richness of the butter.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and quick cooking time. Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels. Drying the chicken is crucial for achieving a nice sear and preventing it from steaming in the pan. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Massage the spices into the chicken to ensure it’s evenly coated and flavorful.
2. Sauté the Garlic in Butter: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt completely and shimmer slightly, but be careful not to let it brown too quickly. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Keep a close eye on the garlic and stir frequently, as it can burn easily. Fragrant garlic is key, burnt garlic is bitter and will ruin the flavor profile. The aroma of sautéing garlic should fill your kitchen, signaling the start of something delicious.
3. Brown the Chicken: Increase the heat slightly to medium-high. Add the seasoned chicken cubes to the skillet with the garlic butter, ensuring they are in a single layer if possible. If you overcrowd the pan, the chicken will steam instead of browning. Work in batches if necessary to achieve a good sear. Cook the chicken for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor and texture to the dish. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Remove the browned chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t fully cooked at this stage, it will finish cooking with the rice.
4. Cook the Rice: In the same skillet, with the flavorful garlic butter remaining, add the uncooked long grain rice. Stir the rice into the butter to coat it evenly. Toasting the rice slightly in the butter for a minute or two enhances its nutty flavor and helps prevent it from becoming mushy. Pour in the chicken broth. Ensure the broth is evenly distributed over the rice. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly with a lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during the simmering process as it releases steam and can lengthen the cooking time.
5. Combine Chicken and Rice: After the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid, gently stir in the browned chicken cubes back into the skillet with the rice. Ensure the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the rice. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the chicken to fully heat through, if needed. This resting period is crucial for the dish to come together beautifully.
6. Garnish and Serve: Fluff the garlic butter chicken and rice with a fork. This separates the rice grains and creates a lighter texture. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot. Offer lemon wedges on the side for those who like a touch of brightness. Enjoy your delicious and quick 30-Minute Garlic Butter Chicken & Rice!

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving, approximate values, may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes)

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 450-550 kcal
• Protein: 35-45g

Please note: These are estimated values. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with specific ingredient brands.

Preparation Time

This recipe truly lives up to its name! From chopping the chicken and garlic to plating the final dish, the active preparation time is incredibly minimal, clocking in at around 10-15 minutes. The rest is hands-off cooking time as the rice simmers and absorbs all that delicious garlic butter flavor alongside the chicken. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need a flavorful and satisfying meal on the table in a flash.

How to Serve

This Garlic Butter Chicken & Rice is delicious and satisfying on its own, but you can elevate your meal with these serving suggestions:

• Side Salad:
  • A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and rice.
  • Consider a Caesar salad or a spinach salad with berries for added flavor and texture.
• Roasted Vegetables:
  • Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans complement the dish beautifully and add nutritional value.
  • Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast alongside the chicken and rice for a complete one-pan meal (though cooking times may need adjustment).
• Steamed Vegetables:
  • Quickly steamed green beans, peas, or carrots offer a healthy and vibrant side.
  • A sprinkle of lemon juice or a pat of butter can enhance their flavor.
• Crusty Bread:
  • Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up every last bit of the flavorful garlic butter sauce.
  • Dinner rolls or baguette slices are excellent choices.
• Lemon Wedges:
  • Always offer lemon wedges for squeezing over the dish. The bright acidity cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing element.
• Garnishes:
  • Beyond parsley, consider other fresh herbs like chives, dill, or cilantro for garnish.
  • A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat for those who like a little spice.
• Drinks:
  • Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
  • Iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water are refreshing non-alcoholic options.
• For a Complete Meal:
  • Incorporate vegetables directly into the dish by adding frozen peas or mixed vegetables during the last few minutes of rice cooking.
  • Sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers can also be added to the skillet before cooking the rice for a heartier meal.

Additional Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken & Rice

1. Use High-Quality Butter: The flavor of butter is central to this dish, so opt for good quality unsalted butter. European-style butter with a higher fat content will lend an even richer and more luxurious taste. The difference in flavor is noticeable, especially in a recipe where butter is a key ingredient.
2. Fresh Garlic is Key: While pre-minced garlic is convenient, freshly minced garlic provides a significantly more robust and aromatic flavor. Take the extra minute to mince fresh garlic cloves – it’s worth the effort for the best garlic butter experience.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan When Browning Chicken: For optimal browning, ensure the chicken cubes are not overcrowded in the skillet. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of searing, resulting in less flavorful and less textured chicken. Work in batches if necessary to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust on each piece.
4. Toast the Rice for Enhanced Flavor: Briefly toasting the rice in the garlic butter before adding the broth enhances its nutty flavor and texture. This simple step prevents the rice from becoming mushy and adds another layer of depth to the overall dish. Stir the rice in the butter for about a minute or two until it becomes slightly translucent.
5. Control the Heat for Garlic: Garlic can burn easily, turning bitter and ruining the flavor of the dish. Keep the heat at medium when sautéing the garlic and stir frequently. You want the garlic to become fragrant and slightly softened, but not browned or burnt. If your garlic starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat immediately.
6. Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the best flavors in this dish. Start with the recommended amount of salt and pepper, but always taste and adjust according to your preference. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
7. Use Low Sodium Chicken Broth: Using low sodium chicken broth gives you better control over the saltiness of the final dish. You can always add more salt if needed, but it’s harder to remove it if the dish becomes too salty. If using regular chicken broth, you may need to reduce the amount of added salt.
8. Rest the Dish Before Serving: Allowing the Garlic Butter Chicken & Rice to rest for a few minutes after cooking, covered, helps the flavors meld together and the rice to finish absorbing any remaining liquid. This resting period enhances the overall texture and flavor of the dish, making it even more delicious. Think of it like letting a good wine breathe – it just gets better with a little rest.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use brown rice instead of long grain white rice?
   • Yes, you can use brown rice, but the cooking time will need to be significantly increased. Brown rice typically takes around 40-50 minutes to cook. You’ll also need to adjust the amount of chicken broth, likely adding about ½ to 1 cup more. Be sure to check the rice package instructions for specific cooking times and liquid ratios for brown rice. The texture will also be chewier and nuttier compared to white rice.
2. Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
   • Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and often result in even more flavorful and moist chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best. The cooking time remains similar, as cubed chicken thighs also cook relatively quickly. Chicken thighs will impart a richer, more savory flavor to the dish due to their higher fat content.
3. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
   • Yes, adding vegetables is a fantastic way to make this dish even more nutritious and complete. Frozen peas or mixed vegetables can be stirred in during the last 5 minutes of rice cooking. Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or spinach can be added to the skillet before cooking the rice. Consider roasting vegetables separately and serving them alongside the chicken and rice for a different texture and presentation.
4. How do I store leftovers and how long will they last?
   • Store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken & Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for 3-4 days. Ensure the leftovers are cooled completely before refrigerating. Proper storage helps maintain food safety and quality.
5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
   • The best way to reheat leftovers is in the microwave or on the stovetop. For microwave reheating, cover the dish loosely and microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. For stovetop reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the skillet to prevent the rice from drying out, and reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   • While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time. You can chop the chicken and garlic and store them separately in the refrigerator. You can also season the chicken ahead of time and keep it refrigerated. However, it’s recommended to cook the dish fresh for the best flavor and texture. Reheating rice can sometimes alter its texture.
7. Is this recipe spicy?
   • No, this recipe as written is not spicy. The paprika adds a mild flavor and color, but not heat. If you prefer a spicy dish, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic, or use spicy paprika instead of sweet or smoked paprika. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for those who like extra heat.
8. Can I use a different herb instead of Italian seasoning?
   • Yes, you can substitute Italian seasoning with other herb blends or individual herbs. Dried oregano, thyme, basil, or a combination of these would work well. You could also use herbs de Provence or poultry seasoning. If using fresh herbs, add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor and aroma. Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

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