When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite compares to the rich flavors of garlic butter chicken paired with creamy Parmesan rice. This dish is perfect for any meal, whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just want to treat yourself to something special. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful garlic butter, and cheesy rice creates a satisfying and hearty dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
To create this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken tenderloins: 1 lb
- Salt and pepper
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 1 stick, divided
- Minced garlic: 2 tablespoons
- Red pepper flakes: 1/4 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 1/2 teaspoons, divided
- Dry white wine: 1/2 cup
- Uncooked white rice: 1 1/2 cups
- Chicken broth: 3 cups
- Fresh grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup
Directions
Follow these simple steps to make the best Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice:
- Season the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken tenderloins with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This ensures that the chicken is flavorful from the inside out.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large nonstick skillet. Add the seasoned chicken tenderloins and cook them until they are browned and fully cooked through. This should take about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet, cover it with foil, and set it aside.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Sauté the garlic for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent it from burning. The garlic should become fragrant and slightly golden.
- Add the Wine: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the dry white wine to the skillet. Stir vigorously to combine the wine with the garlic butter. Allow the mixture to cook for about 5 minutes, or until it reduces by half. This step intensifies the flavors and adds a rich, tangy element to the dish. Set aside 2 tablespoons of this sauce for drizzling over the chicken later.
- Cook the Rice: Add the uncooked white rice to the skillet, stirring it for 3-4 minutes until it starts to brown slightly. This toasting step enhances the flavor of the rice. Then, pour in the chicken broth and the remaining 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and cook the rice for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally during the first 15 minutes to prevent sticking.
- Combine and Serve: Once the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed all the liquid, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over it. Stir the cheese into the rice until well combined and creamy. Next, place the cooked chicken tenders on top of the rice. Drizzle the reserved garlic butter sauce over the chicken for an extra burst of flavor. Cover the skillet, remove it from heat, and let the dish stand for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish and Enjoy: For an extra touch of flavor, garnish the dish with more Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Essential Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4 servings
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice
- Don’t Burn the Garlic: Be careful not to burn the garlic while sautéing. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the dish, so keep the heat moderate and stir frequently.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture and flavor.
Conclusion
The Best Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice is a comforting and delicious dish that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy. With tender chicken, a rich garlic butter sauce, and creamy Parmesan rice, this meal is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Enjoy the flavors of home-cooked comfort food with this simple yet impressive recipe.