I recently tried this Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice recipe, and it quickly became a household favorite. The combination of tender chicken and flavorful, buttery rice is nothing short of perfection.

Cooking this dish felt like quality time spent in the kitchen, and when it came out of the oven, the aroma alone was enough to make everyone hungry. I love how everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to make it over and over again!

Credit: diethood

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering recipe and why each ingredient plays its part:

6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
These are ideal for ensuring the chicken stays juicy and flavorful. Avoid skin-on thighs, as they can make the rice greasy.
1 teaspoon sweet or smoked paprika
Adds a subtle smoky depth and a pop of color. You can swap with chili powder for a spicier touch.
1 teaspoon dried thyme
The earthy notes enhance the overall flavor. Don’t have thyme? Try rosemary or marjoram instead.
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Boosts the garlicky goodness! Combine it with fresh garlic for maximum flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste
Balances and elevates the taste of the dish.
4 tablespoons butter
Perfect for adding richness and ensuring a creamy texture throughout.
1 yellow onion, diced
This infuses the rice with a touch of sweetness. A white onion works well too.
4 large garlic cloves, minced
Use fresh garlic for an authentic and bold flavor.
1½ cups long-grain white rice
Both Basmati or Jasmine rice work beautifully here. Avoid quick-cooking varieties.
1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
Enhances the rice’s taste with its savory essence. Vegetable broth is a good alternative.
1½ cups hot water
Adding just enough moisture helps the rice cook evenly.
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and rosemary ties the flavors together.
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Adds a herbaceous finish to the rice and chicken.
Fresh parsley for garnish
The pop of green adds color and freshness to the overall dish.

Note: This recipe serves about 6 people. You can adjust the ingredient quantities to fit the serving size you need.

Variations

Looking to change things up? Here are some creative variations:

Use boneless chicken thighs for quicker cooking times, but keep in mind they may dry out faster.
Swap the butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
Opt for brown rice as a healthier alternative, but extend the cooking time.
Add veggies like sautéed spinach, chopped carrots, or peas to the rice for more color and nutrients.
Want extra spice? Add a pinch of red chili flakes or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.

You can also enjoy this slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken recipe for another comforting meal idea.

Cooking Time

Here’s how long it will take to whip up this delicious dish:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes (includes both stove-top and oven cooking)
Total Time: 55 minutes

Equipment You Need

To make this dish, you’ll only need a handful of kitchen tools:

Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven: For both stovetop cooking and baking.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure the perfect ingredient ratios.
Cutting board and knife: For chopping onions and garlic, and seasoning the chicken.
Tongs: To handle the chicken without breaking the skin.
Aluminum foil: For covering the dish while it bakes.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice?

Making this recipe is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Here’s how to make it step-by-step:

Prep the Chicken

The first step involves seasoning the chicken thighs. Coat them with a blend of smoked paprika, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Giving them a quick massage ensures the spices stick for maximum flavor.

Sauté Aromatics

Melt the butter in your oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onions and minced garlic. Stir them around for about 3-4 minutes until the onions soften and the garlic becomes fragrant. Careful not to burn the garlic, as this can turn bitter.

Toast the Rice

Add the rice to the skillet, allowing it to soak up the buttery flavors. Sauté for about 30 seconds so it gets slightly toasted, which prevents it from clumping later.

Assemble the Dish

Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the rice. Slowly pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and hot water to make sure the rice cooks evenly. Finish by sprinkling the Italian seasoning and dried oregano over the top.

Bake Until Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 15-20 minutes. This allows the liquid to absorb fully, leaving the rice tender and fluffy.

Rest and Garnish

Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Credit: diethood

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Through trial and error, I’ve discovered some foolproof tips to enhance this dish:

Use room-temperature chicken thighs for even cooking.
Rinse the rice in cold water to remove excess starch before cooking.
For more depth, sauté the rice with a splash of white wine before adding the broth.
Don’t skip the resting time; it allows the rice to fully absorb the flavors.
Adjust the seasoning to your liking. I sometimes sprinkle extra garlic powder after fluffing the rice for an extra kick.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice?

This dish is delightful on its own, but pairing it with side dishes takes it to the next level. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal. To make it Instagram-worthy, garnish the plate with fresh parsley or a wedge of lemon. A drizzle of garlic butter over the dish right before serving also makes it shine. You can also serve it with skillet chicken thighs with broccoli cheddar orzo recipe.

Nutritional Information

Here are the key nutritional details per serving:

Calories: 370
Protein: 23g
Carbohydrates: 39g
Fat: 12g

Make Ahead and Storage

This dish is great for meal prep or leftovers.

To make ahead: Assemble everything up to the baking stage, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Add the broth and water just before baking.
To refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
To freeze: Place it in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
To reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until fully heated through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe ticks all the boxes for a crowd-pleaser. Here’s why:

One-pot simplicity: Easy cooking and cleaning, perfect for busy nights.
Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic, butter, and tender chicken is a winner.
Versatile: You can customize it with different seasonings, rice types, or added vegetables.
Perfect for meal prep: Stays fresh and delicious for days.
Comfort food: A warm, satisfying dish that’s great for all seasons.

Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice is sure to become a staple in your home. It’s simple to make, full of flavor, and irresistibly comforting! Give it a try, and you’ll see why this recipe is a hit. You can also enjoy similar chicken recipes for more inspiration.

Ash Tyrrell