Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe
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If you are searching for a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than the Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe. This dish combines tender, golden-browned chicken infused with rich garlic butter flavor alongside creamy, cheesy Parmesan rice that soaks up every delicious drop of buttery goodness. Perfectly balanced with a hit of lemon brightness and garnished with fresh parsley, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that turns an ordinary dinner into a memorable feast with simple ingredients and comforting textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe lies in its straightforward and thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a starring role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish irresistible and easy to prepare at home.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: These provide tender, juicy protein that crisps beautifully in the pan.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory garlic notes evenly on the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and a beautiful color to the chicken.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For perfectly browning the chicken without sticking.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided): Provides that silky, rich base that makes everything taste indulgent.
- 4 garlic cloves (minced): Fresh garlic sharpens the taste and aroma in the sauce and rice.
- 1 cup long grain white rice: The tender, fluffy foundation that soaks up flavors beautifully.
- 2 1/4 cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth, enriching the rice as it cooks.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings in a subtle salty and nutty richness that’s pure comfort food.
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional): A fresh green garnish enhancing color and brightness.
- Juice of 1/2 lemon: The citrusy zing that wakes up and balances the creamy richness.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Begin by seasoning both sides of your chicken thighs or breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This simple seasoning gives every bite a flavorful punch. Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chicken and cook without moving it for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, allowing a golden crust to form that locks in juicy tenderness. Once fully cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Toast the Rice
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until fragrant and lightly golden. This step is key to infusing the whole dish with deep garlic flavor. Next, stir in the rice and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, letting the grains toast slightly; this enhances the texture and nutty notes of the rice, setting the stage for the next steps.
Step 3: Cook the Parmesan Rice
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a lively boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes. During this time, the rice absorbs the buttery, garlicky broth and swells into tender perfection. Once cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, which melts into a creamy, cheesy base that perfectly complements the chicken. Adjust seasoning if needed to maintain a balanced flavor.
Step 4: Finish and Combine
Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet, nestling it on top of the Parmesan rice to warm through. Drizzle the juice of half a lemon over the dish to add a fresh, bright contrast to the richness. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top if you like for a pop of green and a hint of herbal freshness. Your Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe is now ready to serve and impress!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is my go-to for finishing this dish; it adds a lively color and a subtle herbal note that cuts through the richness. A few extra shavings of Parmesan can be sprinkled just before serving to boost the cheesy goodness. Sometimes, a light squeeze of extra lemon juice at the table invites each person to add a little zesty brightness, tailoring the flavor to their preference.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully hearty on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, think simple sides that complement rather than compete. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed green beans tossed with a touch of garlic butter fit beautifully. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also bring needed texture contrast and color to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist on presentation, try serving the chicken sliced on top of the Parmesan rice layered in individual bowls. Garnish with a sprig of parsley and a lemon wedge on the side for an elegant look. You can also drizzle a little extra melted garlic butter over the chicken pieces just before serving to amplify the indulgence factor. This makes your Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or easy weeknight dinners. The flavors tend to meld wonderfully after a day, so leftovers often taste even better.
Freezing
If you want to keep this delicious dish longer, you can freeze it. Place portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Frozen Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe will maintain good quality for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently either in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out and the rice from becoming tough. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating can help keep the rice moist and fluffy. A quick flick of fresh lemon juice after warming will brighten everything back up.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Both chicken thighs and breasts work well. Thighs are more forgiving and typically juicier, but breasts are leaner and cook just as nicely with careful attention to avoid overcooking.
Is it possible to use brown rice for the Parmesan rice?
Yes, brown rice can be substituted, but it will require a longer cooking time and possibly more chicken broth. Adjust accordingly to ensure the rice becomes tender without drying out the dish.
Can I add vegetables to this Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe?
Definitely! Stirring in spinach, peas, or sautéed mushrooms during the rice cooking stage adds color, nutrition, and extra flavor, making the meal even more satisfying.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese are great alternatives for Parmesan. They bring similar salty, nutty qualities that enrich the rice just as beautifully.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use a certified gluten-free chicken broth and Parmesan cheese, this dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious choice for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Final Thoughts
The Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe is one of those special meals that feels like a little celebration every time you make it. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests, delivering comfort and sophistication in every bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen, bringing smiles and satisfied appetites to your table again and again.
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Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Savor this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice, a one-pan skillet meal combining tender, flavorful chicken thighs or breasts with creamy, cheesy rice infused with garlic and Parmesan. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe balances rich buttery flavors with a hint of lemon brightness and optional fresh parsley for garnish.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Rice
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry and season both sides evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to build flavorful layers.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
- Toast Rice: Stir in the long grain white rice and cook for 2–3 minutes, letting it toast lightly while coating it in the garlic butter for added depth of flavor.
- Simmer Rice: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed all the liquid and is tender.
- Finish Rice: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese to create a creamy texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet on top of the rice. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish for a bright, fresh finish before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the rice to lift up the flavorful browned bits from the skillet.
- You can substitute brown rice for a healthier option, but be sure to increase the cooking time and liquid quantity accordingly.
- Add veggies like spinach or peas during the last few minutes of cooking the rice for added nutrition and color.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
