Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken And Rice Skillet

Name: Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken And Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup rice (white or brown); 3 cups chicken broth; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, chopped; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Fast Family Favorites

I love making this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Skillet for a cozy weeknight dinner. The combination of tender chicken, rich garlic butter, and fluffy rice creates a meal that's both satisfying and comforting. As I cook, the delightful aroma fills my kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste. With just one skillet, cleanup is a breeze, and this dish is perfect for busy evenings or when I want to impress friends at a small gathering. Trust me, this creamy goodness will become a regular in your rotation!

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-26T08:17:34.751Z

When I first attempted to make this creamy dish, I was pleasantly surprised by how quick and easy it was to prepare. Incorporating just a handful of ingredients, I discovered that the key to perfecting the flavor lies in the garlic – sautéing it until golden brown elevates the dish significantly. The creamy sauce beautifully clings to the rice, creating a luscious texture that pairs perfectly with every bite of chicken.

One tip I’d share is to allow the chicken to rest briefly after cooking; this keeps it juicy and tender. I often serve this skillet dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, which adds a pop of color and a fresh taste that balances the richness beautifully. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce that coats every bite
Quick one-pan meal for easy cleanup
Flavorful garlic butter elevates the dish

Perfecting Your Chicken

To get that perfect golden-brown crust on your chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook in batches if necessary. Ensure your skillet is preheated over medium heat before adding the chicken. This step is crucial as it allows the chicken to sear rather than steam, locking in the juices. After cooking for 6-7 minutes on each side, the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. Let it rest for a couple of minutes before slicing to retain moisture.

If you prefer a more intense flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts for at least 30 minutes with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbes de Provence. This not only adds depth but also enhances the chicken’s tenderness and juiciness, making it even more delicious when paired with the creamy garlic sauce.

Mastering the Rice

When adding the rice to the skillet, be sure to stir thoroughly to coat the grains in the flavorful garlic butter mixture. This technique helps to prevent the rice from becoming gummy as it cooks. If you’re using brown rice, extend the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes, as it requires more liquid and a longer cook time. Keep an eye on the rice; if it absorbs the broth too quickly, you can add an additional 1/2 cup of liquid to ensure it cooks perfectly.

Once the rice is done cooking, you can add a splash of heavy cream for an extra touch of richness in the sauce. Alternatively, for a vegan adaptation, swap out the butter for olive oil and use cashew cream instead of heavy cream, thus maintaining a creamy texture while accommodating dietary restrictions.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup rice (white or brown)
3 cups chicken broth
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté the chopped onion for about 2 minutes until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice and Italian seasoning, followed by the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Place the cooked chicken back in the skillet, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Finish and Serve

Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and serve garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, add a splash of cream to the sauce just before serving for added richness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If you're in a hurry, a microwave works as well—heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until the desired temperature is reached.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, which will help maintain the integrity of the chicken and rice.

Serving Suggestions

Consider serving the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice with a side of sautéed green beans or a mixed salad. The freshness of the greens complements the rich flavors of the dish. You can also sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving for an added layer of flavor—it's a delightful twist that enhances the overall creaminess.

For those who enjoy a little spice, serve with red pepper flakes on the side, allowing guests to customize their heat level. This adds a nice touch and balances the creamy garlic base, making each bite more exciting. If you're hosting friends, consider serving this dish family-style, in the skillet itself, for a charming and communal dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Just be aware that brown rice typically takes longer to cook, so adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.

→ What if I don't have chicken breasts?

Chicken thighs work great in this recipe too. They give a juicier and richer flavor to the dish.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce, store them in the fridge, and then reheat when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This flavorful skillet dish can be paired with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.