Description
How to make smoky garlic butter chicken and rice with tender chicken, aromatic spices, and buttery rice that creates the perfect one-pan comfort meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
Rice Base
- 1.5 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup water
Flavor Builders
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss chicken pieces until evenly coated. Let sit for 10 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Build Base: Remove chicken and set aside. Add diced onion to the same pan and cook 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Rice: Stir in rinsed rice and cook 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted. This step prevents mushy rice and adds a subtle nutty flavor to the dish.
- Simmer Everything: Pour in chicken broth, water, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 18-20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Finish Dish: Stir in cooked chicken, frozen peas, and remaining 3 tablespoons butter. Let sit off heat for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Don’t skip the rice resting time or you’ll have sticky, clumpy results instead of fluffy grains.
- Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for best quality.
- Brown rice can be substituted but will need longer cooking time and more liquid.
- Frozen mixed vegetables work great instead of just peas for extra color and nutrition.
- Double the recipe easily for meal prep or feeding a larger crowd.
- Smoked paprika is essential for authentic flavor – regular paprika won’t give the same depth.
Allergy Information: None
Nutrition
- Calories: 485 calories
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 32g