Garlic Butter Rice with Chicken (Print Version)

Fluffy rice infused with rich garlic butter, topped with juicy grilled chicken breast for a comforting meal.

# What You Need:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon paprika
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

→ Garlic Butter Rice

06 - 2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
07 - 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth, gluten-free
08 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
09 - 4 large garlic cloves, minced
10 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
14 - Lemon wedges for serving

# Directions:

01 - Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat for 5 minutes until hot.
02 - Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub evenly with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides.
03 - Place chicken on hot grill and cook 6 to 7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear. Transfer to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and rest for 5 minutes.
04 - While chicken cooks, melt 2 tablespoons butter in medium saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté 2 to 3 minutes until softened and translucent.
05 - Add minced garlic to saucepan and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
06 - Add rinsed rice to garlic mixture and stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes to coat grains evenly with butter and aromatics.
07 - Pour in chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover with lid, and simmer for 15 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
08 - Remove saucepan from heat. Fluff rice with fork and stir in remaining 1 tablespoon butter and fresh parsley.
09 - Slice rested chicken breasts against the grain. Divide garlic butter rice among bowls or plates, top with sliced chicken, and serve with lemon wedges.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The rice soaks up every bit of garlicky, buttery flavor and comes out ridiculously fluffy.
  • It feels like restaurant quality but uses ingredients you probably already have.
  • The chicken stays juicy and the seasoning is simple but deeply satisfying.
  • It comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknights when you want something real.
02 -
  • Do not lift the lid while the rice is simmering or you'll let out the steam and end up with crunchy grains.
  • Let the chicken rest after grilling or all the juices will run out onto the cutting board instead of staying inside.
  • If your rice is still a little wet after 15 minutes, leave the lid on off the heat for 5 more minutes to absorb.
03 -
  • Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan with a tight-fitting lid to prevent scorching and ensure even cooking.
  • If you don't have a grill, a cast iron skillet over high heat gives you a beautiful sear and works just as well.
  • Always taste the rice before serving and adjust the salt, a little squeeze of lemon can fix a flat flavor instantly.
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