Herb Butter Chicken Thighs with Garlic Rice

This dish features golden, seared chicken thighs resting atop fragrant garlic rice, all infused with herbed butter for a rich, satisfying one-pot meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a complete dinner made in one pot, offering crispy, flavorful chicken and fluffy rice without the hassle of multiple dishes. The herb butter enhances every bite with aromatic, savory notes.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Garlic powder
Butter
Garlic cloves
Uncooked long-grain white rice
Chicken broth
Fresh parsley or dried herbs
Olive oil

directions

1. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

2. In a heavy-bottomed pot, sear the chicken thighs (skin-side down first) in olive oil until golden and crisp. Remove and set aside.

3. Melt butter in the same pot, then sauté garlic until fragrant.

4. Stir in uncooked rice to toast slightly.

5. Add chicken broth and stir well.

6. Nestle chicken thighs into the rice.

7. Cover and cook on low heat until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.

8. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 35 minutes
Total: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add frozen peas or corn to the rice.
• Use boneless chicken thighs for a quicker cook time.
• Incorporate lemon juice for brightness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of broth to moisten the rice.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Yes, but thighs stay juicier and offer more flavor.

What rice works best?

Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice gives the best texture.

Can I bake this dish?

Yes, after adding broth and rice, cover and bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes.

Should I rinse the rice first?

Yes, rinsing removes excess starch and prevents clumping.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.

How can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes.

Can I freeze this?

Yes, though the texture of the rice may change slightly.

Is fresh parsley necessary?

No, you can substitute dried parsley or other herbs.

How do I keep the chicken skin crispy?

Sear thoroughly before simmering and avoid covering with liquid.

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but cooking time and liquid amounts will need adjusting.

Conclusion

This Herb Butter Chicken Thighs with Garlic Rice is a reliable, hearty, and flavorful meal that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table with minimal effort.