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One-Pan Honey Butter Garlic Chicken & Rice

Tender chicken thighs glazed in sweet and savory honey butter sauce, nestled in fluffy garlicky rice, all cooked in a single pan for easy weeknight comfort.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian-Inspired
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup white rice uncooked, long-grain
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 3 slices lemon optional for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Season chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic to the same skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden.
  4. Stir in honey and soy sauce. Let bubble for 30 seconds to create a sticky glaze.
  5. Add uncooked rice and stir well to coat every grain with the sauce.
  6. Pour in chicken broth and stir briefly to distribute liquid evenly.
  7. Nestle seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, partially submerging them in the rice mixture.
  8. Cover with a tight-fitting lid, reduce heat to low, and simmer undisturbed for 18 to 22 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  9. Remove from heat and let rest covered for 5 minutes.
  10. Uncover, fluff rice gently with a fork around the chicken. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and garnish with lemon slices if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Don't skip the searing step as it builds flavor and locks in moisture. Use long-grain rice for best texture. Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors deepen. Can substitute chicken breasts but reduce cooking time slightly to prevent drying.
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