Garlic Butter Chicken Breasts with Rice is a wholesome, protein-packed dinner featuring tender chicken seared to perfection, complemented by fragrant basmati rice. The rich, garlicky butter sauce elevates this dish into a comforting yet sophisticated meal. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed family dinner.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Perfect Sear: Ensure chicken breasts are patted dry before searing to achieve a golden crust.
- Garlic Timing: Add minced garlic toward the end of cooking to avoid burning and achieve a sweet, mellow flavor.
- Rice Texture: Rinse basmati rice thoroughly before cooking for fluffy grains.
- Butter Balance: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the sauce.
- Resting Period: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in juices.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe balances indulgence and health, featuring lean protein and complex carbohydrates. The garlic butter sauce is irresistibly rich without being overwhelming, making it family-friendly and versatile. The preparation is straightforward, requiring only pantry staples, yet it delivers restaurant-quality flavors. It’s a one-pan wonder that minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor.
Garlic Butter Chicken Breasts with Rice
Juicy chicken breasts in a rich garlic butter sauce served over fluffy basmati rice—a hearty, healthy dinner delight.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups cooked basmati rice
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 6–8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice and scrape up any browned bits from the skillet for extra flavor.
- Combine: Return chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve: Place a portion of cooked basmati rice on each plate, top with a chicken breast, and drizzle with garlic butter sauce. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
Pair with steamed green beans or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 472Total Fat 23gSaturated Fat 9gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 133mgSodium 167mgCarbohydrates 25gFiber 1gSugar 0gProtein 40g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes:
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are ideal for quick cooking. Pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Basmati Rice: This aromatic long-grain rice complements the garlic butter sauce with its light and fluffy texture.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is crucial for the bold flavor of this dish. Use finely minced cloves for even cooking.
- Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the dish’s salt level.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley or thyme adds a vibrant finish to the dish.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens the sauce and balances the richness.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Protein Options: Substitute chicken breasts with thighs, turkey cutlets, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Carb Alternatives: Replace basmati rice with quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for lower-carb options.
- Herbs: Experiment with rosemary, cilantro, or dill for a different herbaceous note.
- Spice: Add red pepper flakes for a subtle heat or smoked paprika for depth.
- Dairy-Free: Use olive oil or plant-based butter for a lactose-free version.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to retain moisture.
- Reheating Tip: Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to refresh the sauce.
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