STICK OF BUTTER CHICKEN RICE

I’ll never forget the first time my grandmother made a similar dish – it was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and the aroma wafting from the kitchen was pure comfort. The savory scent of chicken and rice, enriched with butter, filled the house, promising a warm and satisfying meal. It was simple, yet utterly delicious. Now, I’ve taken that nostalgic feeling and crafted an even easier, incredibly flavorful version, and I’m so excited to share it with you. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Easy Stick of Butter Chicken Rice you’ll ever make!

Easy Stick of Butter Chicken Rice: Your New Weeknight Hero

Hey there, friend! I’m so excited you’re here because we’re about to embark on a culinary adventure that will transform your weeknight dinners forever. Forget complicated recipes and hours spent slaving away in the kitchen. This Easy Stick of Butter Chicken Rice is all about simplicity, flavor, and maximum comfort. Trust me, even if you’re a beginner cook, you can absolutely nail this recipe. It’s practically foolproof, and the results are out of this world. Imagine tender, juicy chicken, perfectly cooked rice, all infused with the rich, buttery goodness that makes everything better. Are you ready? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Recipe

Seriously, there are so many reasons to adore this recipe. Here are just a few:

• It’s ridiculously easy: We’re talking minimal prep time and simple ingredients.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser: Kids and adults alike will devour this dish.
• It’s incredibly flavorful: The butter adds richness, and the spices create a symphony of taste.
• It’s budget-friendly: You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry already.
• It’s a one-pot wonder: Less cleanup? Yes, please!

What You’ll Need: The Ingredients List

Okay, let’s gather our troops! Here’s everything you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece. Don’t worry, it’s a short and sweet list!

• 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter: This is the star of the show! Don’t skimp on the butter; it’s what makes this dish so incredibly rich and delicious.
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: I prefer thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work just as well. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a savory base to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because everything tastes better with garlic!
• 1 ½ cups long-grain rice: Make sure it’s long-grain for the best texture.
• 3 cups chicken broth: Low-sodium is best so you can control the salt level.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a lovely earthy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Complements the thyme beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a touch of color and mild spice.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t be afraid to season generously!
• Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors too!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the things I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is! Feel free to experiment and make it your own. Here are a few ideas:

• Chicken: Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Rice: Brown rice can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount. Keep an eye on it and add more broth if needed. Basmati rice also works well.
• Vegetables: Add other vegetables like chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Spices: Get creative with your spice blend! Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or a dash of curry powder for an exotic twist. You can customize the spices to your personal preference.
• Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese over the top during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy, gooey finish.

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s dive into the fun part – the cooking! Don’t worry, I’ll be with you every step of the way. Just follow these instructions, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

1. Melt the butter: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the entire stick of butter. Yes, the whole stick!
2. Sauté the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary. This will ensure the chicken gets a nice sear. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Add the rice and spices: Stir in the rice, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the rice and release its aroma. This step is crucial for adding depth of flavor to the dish.
5. Add the broth and chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Then, return the chicken to the skillet.
6. Simmer and cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to ensure even cooking of the rice.
7. Rest and fluff: Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This allows the rice to fully absorb any remaining liquid and become perfectly fluffy. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
8. Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot. A squeeze of lemon juice is a great addition, too!

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Rice

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your Easy Stick of Butter Chicken Rice turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Cook it just until it’s browned on all sides, as it will continue to cook while simmering with the rice.
• Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven: This will help to distribute the heat evenly and prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
• Don’t lift the lid while simmering: This will release steam and can affect the cooking time and texture of the rice.
• Adjust the seasoning: Taste the dish after simmering and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
• Let it rest: Resting the dish before fluffing and serving is crucial for achieving perfectly fluffy rice.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Easy Stick of Butter Chicken Rice is a complete meal in itself, but it’s also delicious served with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few of my favorite pairings:

• Green salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and rice.
• Steamed vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are healthy and delicious additions.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness and warmth.
• Crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up all the delicious sauce!

If you are looking for a similar dish with even less effort, try my Forgotten Chicken and Rice Casserole. Just toss everything in a dish and bake!

If you are looking for a dish with a creamy component, you may want to check out my Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole. This dish is comforting and filling.

For a completely different flavor profile, I highly recommend my BUTTER CHICKEN recipe. It’s a classic for a reason, and the creamy tomato sauce is simply divine. Or, if you are looking for something with a tangy flavor, my SLOW COOKER LEMON CHICKEN is fantastic. The lemon infuses the chicken with a bright, zesty flavor that’s perfect for a light and refreshing meal. Another flavorful chicken recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite is my HONEY PEPPER CHICKEN PASTA. The sweet and savory combination is absolutely irresistible.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Storing: Allow the chicken rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to prevent it from drying out.

Troubleshooting: Common Problems and Solutions

Even the best recipes can sometimes go awry. Here are a few common problems and how to fix them:

• Rice is undercooked: Add a little more chicken broth (about ¼ cup) and continue to simmer, covered, until the rice is cooked through.
• Rice is mushy: You may have added too much liquid or overcooked the rice. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do to fix mushy rice, but it will still taste delicious!
• Chicken is dry: Next time, try using chicken thighs instead of breasts, or make sure not to overcook the chicken.
• Dish is bland: Add more salt, pepper, or other spices to taste. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors.

Enjoy Your Delicious Easy Stick of Butter Chicken Rice!

There you have it, my friend! A simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. I hope you love this Easy Stick of Butter Chicken Rice as much as I do. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the ingredients and make it your own. Most importantly, have fun in the kitchen! Happy cooking!

Easy Stick of Butter Chicken Rice

This Easy Stick of Butter Chicken Rice recipe is a flavorful and comforting one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice are infused with rich, buttery goodness and aromatic spices for a satisfying and effortless dinner.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups long-grain rice
• 3 cups chicken broth, low-sodium
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish optional
• Lemon juice, for serving optional

Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven with lid
• measuring cups and spoons
• cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Garlic press (optional)
• wooden spoon or spatula
• fork

Method

 

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the entire stick of butter.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Stir in the rice, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the rice and release its aroma.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Then, return the chicken to the skillet.
6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to ensure even cooking of the rice.
7. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This allows the rice to fully absorb any remaining liquid and become perfectly fluffy.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot. A squeeze of lemon juice is a great addition, too!

Notes

For best results, use a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. Avoid lifting the lid during simmering to maintain the proper cooking environment for the rice. If you prefer a creamier dish, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or sour cream after cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying out. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spice mixture.