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One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice: Easy 30-Minute Dinner

one-pan garlic butter chicken and rice - featured image

Juicy golden-brown chicken and fluffy garlic-infused rice come together in one pan for a quick, comforting weeknight dinner that’s ready in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine)
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Let sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
  2. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt and get foamy but not brown.
  3. Sear the chicken thighs in a single layer for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate (chicken will not be fully cooked).
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter and diced onion. Cook 2-3 minutes until onion softens, scraping up browned bits.
  5. Add minced garlic and dried thyme. Cook about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  6. Add rice and stir for about 1 minute to coat in the garlic butter mixture.
  7. Pour in chicken broth and stir. Bring to a gentle boil. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Nestle the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice, including any accumulated juices.
  9. Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and cook undisturbed for 18-20 minutes.
  10. Turn off heat and let rest covered for 5 minutes. Remove lid, fluff rice with a fork, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Don’t lift the lid during simmering. Let the chicken rest 5 minutes after cooking. For best results, use fresh garlic and low-sodium chicken broth. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan dinner, garlic butter chicken, chicken and rice, easy weeknight dinner, 30-minute meal