Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe is one of my all-time favorite dishes. I still remember the first time I made it. I had friends coming over for dinner and I wanted to impress them with something delicious, yet not too complicated. After all, we all know the struggle of being a busy home cook. This dish was a hit that night, and it still is a go-to recipe for gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice
To make this dish, you will need a few simple and accessible ingredients. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you will need for both the garlic butter chicken and the Parmesan rice.
Chicken Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Parmesan Rice Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice
Making the garlic butter chicken is simple and quick. The chicken turns out juicy and flavorful, thanks to the garlic and butter.
- Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. This step infuses flavor into the meat.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, let’s melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. This is where the magic happens.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until nicely browned and cooked through. Don’t forget to keep an eye on it!
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pan. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, followed by the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, turning it to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to absorb all those delicious flavors.
How to Cook the Parmesan Rice
While the chicken is cooking, you can easily make the Parmesan rice. It pairs perfectly with the garlic butter chicken.
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve for a few minutes to remove excess starch. This step helps to keep the rice fluffy.
- Cook the Rice: In a saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and chicken broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
- Add Parmesan: Once done, fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and a tablespoon of butter. Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serving this dish is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. I love plating the garlic butter chicken over a bed of the creamy Parmesan rice. Here are some ideas to take your meal to the next level:
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil on top adds a fresh flavor.
- Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, asparagus, or a simple green salad for some crunch and color.
- Extra Sauce: Pour some garlic butter sauce from the pan over the chicken and rice for extra richness.
Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice
Over the years, I have learned a few tricks that can make your garlic butter chicken even better:
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
- Let Chicken Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making more chicken, cook it in batches to maintain that beautiful browning.
What to Do with Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have some leftovers, there are so many tasty ways to use them:
- Chicken Salad: Chop up the leftover chicken, mix it with mayo, and a bit of mustard for a delicious chicken salad.
- Wraps: Use the chicken and rice as filling for wraps. Add some veggies and a tasty sauce.
- Soup: Toss the chicken and rice into a homemade soup for a comforting meal.
Is This Recipe Kid-Friendly?
Absolutely! Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice is often a hit with kids. The flavors are mild yet delicious. Here’s how to make it even more appealing for little ones:
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: A side of ranch or their favorite sauce adds a fun element.
- Make it Colorful: Serve with colorful veggies like carrots and bell peppers for more visual appeal.
Pairing Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice
Finding the perfect drink to enjoy with your meal can elevate the dining experience. I usually go for:
- White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc balances the richness of the chicken.
- Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea with lemon makes a lovely non-alcoholic option.
Storage Tips
Knowing how to store the leftovers properly is essential to maintain their freshness.
- Cool Down: Allow the chicken and rice to cool down before placing them in airtight containers.
- Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze: To extend the storage, you can freeze the chicken and rice for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional value of your meals is helpful. Here’s a simple breakdown for garlic butter chicken with Parmesan rice per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 600 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 35g
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice Recipe is undoubtedly a favorite in my kitchen. It combines simple cooking techniques with vibrant flavors. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of that first dinner party and how it warmed everyone’s hearts.