Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice – A Comforting, Flavorful Meal

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There’s nothing quite like the rich, satisfying flavors of Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting dinner after a busy day, this dish has you covered. Packed with tender chicken tenders, a creamy Parmesan-infused rice base, and a savory garlic butter sauce, this recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process to make this hearty, indulgent meal that will quickly become a family favorite.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice

Before you get started, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to create this flavorful masterpiece. The good news is that this recipe uses easy-to-find ingredients, and most of them are likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients	Quantity
Chicken tenders	1 lb
Minced garlic (divided)	3 tbsp (about 10 cloves)
Olive oil	2 tbsp
Butter (divided)	1 stick (1/2 cup)
Red pepper flakes	1/2 tsp
Salt	1/2 tsp
Dry white wine (Pinot Grigio)	3/4 cup
Uncooked white rice	1 1/2 cups
Low-sodium chicken stock	2 3/4 cups
Parmesan cheese (grated)	1/2 cup
Fresh parsley (minced)	1 tbsp
Optional: Additional Parmesan	For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice. Don’t worry; while the process may seem detailed, it’s quite straightforward, and the end result will leave you with a plate of sheer comfort.

1. Prepare the Chicken

The first step is to season and cook the chicken tenders. Here’s how to do it:

• Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken tenders generously on both sides with your preferred poultry seasoning. A Cajun seasoning blend works wonderfully for an added kick, but feel free to use whatever seasoning you like best.
• Heat the Skillet: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned chicken tenders. Sear the chicken for about 3 minutes per side, flipping only once. This will ensure the chicken is nicely browned on the outside while staying tender and juicy on the inside.
• Reduce Heat: Once both sides are browned, reduce the heat to low and let the chicken cook through. You can check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked (165°F or 75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, tenting it with foil to keep it warm.

2. Make the Garlic Butter

Now, it’s time to make the delicious garlic butter sauce that will infuse the chicken with amazing flavor.

• Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Scrape up any browned bits from the chicken that might have stuck to the pan; these add incredible flavor to the sauce.
• Coat the Chicken: Once the garlic is fragrant and golden, return the chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the garlic butter to coat it evenly. This will give your chicken a deliciously rich, buttery flavor.
• Keep Warm: Remove the chicken from the skillet and tent it with foil again to keep it warm. Set the skillet aside for the next step.

3. Prepare the Wine Sauce

Now comes the step where the magic happens. The wine sauce adds a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the creamy rice perfectly.

• Add More Butter and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of garlic. Sauté the garlic for another minute until it becomes fragrant.
• Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine (Pinot Grigio works beautifully for this dish). Allow the wine to simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until it has slightly reduced by half. This process concentrates the flavors and infuses the sauce with a rich, tangy taste.
• Reserve the Pan Juices: Before you move on, scoop out 1/3 cup of the pan juices and set them aside for later. This will be added back into the dish for extra flavor.

4. Cook the Rice

With the chicken and sauce out of the way, it’s time to cook the rice. Here’s how to do it perfectly:

• Toast the Rice: Increase the heat to medium and add the uncooked rice directly to the skillet. Stir it frequently, toasting the rice for about 5 minutes. This step adds a slightly nutty flavor to the rice, making it more aromatic.
• Add the Stock and Spices: Once the rice is toasted, pour in the chicken stock, salt, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine, ensuring the rice is fully submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
• Simmer: Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the rice simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

5. Combine and Assemble the Dish

After the rice is cooked, it’s time to bring everything together into one delicious dish:

• Stir in Parmesan: Once the rice is fully cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This will make the rice creamy and flavorful, taking the dish to the next level.
• Slice the Chicken: Slice the chicken tenders into pieces (or you can leave them whole if you prefer). Arrange them evenly over the Parmesan rice, letting the juices from the chicken infuse the rice with even more flavor.

6. Finish with Garlic Butter Sauce

To take this dish from good to amazing, let’s add the finishing touch:

• Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of softened butter, the remaining minced garlic, and the reserved pan juices. Microwave this mixture for 15 seconds to partially melt the butter, then stir in the fresh parsley.
• Drizzle the Sauce: Drizzle this luscious garlic butter sauce over the chicken and rice, making sure every bite gets that rich, savory flavor.

7. Serve and Enjoy!

Your Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice is now ready to serve. For an added touch, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the top and serve the dish directly from the pan. This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also save leftovers for a comforting meal later in the week.

Tips and Variations for Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice

This recipe is versatile and easy to adapt. Here are a few variations and tips to help you make it your own:

Rice Variations:

• You can experiment with different types of rice, such as basmati, jasmine, or long-grain rice. Each type will bring its own unique texture and flavor to the dish.
• If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. Just be aware that brown rice will take longer to cook and requires a little more liquid (around 3 cups of chicken stock).

Chicken Variations:

• While chicken tenders are quick to cook and tender, you can also use chicken breasts or thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the cut you choose. If using chicken breasts, consider slicing them thinly to ensure even cooking.

Wine Alternatives:

• If you prefer not to use wine, you can easily substitute it with chicken broth for a similar depth of flavor without the alcohol.

Spice it Up:

• Want a bit more heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or increase the amount of red pepper flakes. If you enjoy bold flavors, you can also experiment with adding herbs like thyme, oregano, or even a touch of rosemary.

Why Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice is the Perfect Weeknight Dinner

If you’ve been searching for a dinner recipe that’s both comforting and easy to make, Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice should be at the top of your list. Here’s why:

• Quick and Easy: You’ll have this dish on the table in less than an hour. Despite its gourmet taste, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Comfort Food: There’s just something about the combination of tender chicken, creamy Parmesan rice, and savory garlic butter that makes this dish the ultimate comfort food.
• Impressive Yet Simple: This dish may sound fancy, but it’s actually easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe will leave everyone impressed.

FAQ – Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice

Can I make this recipe without wine?

Absolutely! If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply swap the wine with chicken broth or water. The dish will still have a rich, savory flavor.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice in place of white rice. Just be sure to increase the cooking time and liquid to ensure the rice is fully cooked. You’ll need around 3 cups of chicken stock for brown rice.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like heat, try adding more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a really bold kick, you could even add some chopped jalapeños to the dish.

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders, but be sure to defrost them first. Frozen tenders may need a slightly longer cooking time, so check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Conclusion: A Delicious and Comforting Meal for Any Occasion

There you have it! Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice is an easy-to-make, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a dinner party, this dish will surely impress everyone at the table. The rich garlic butter sauce, creamy Parmesan rice, and tender chicken come together for a delicious, hearty meal that’s impossible to resist. Try it tonight, and see just how quickly it becomes your new favorite comfort food!

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