If you’re craving a dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this One-Pan Honey Butter Garlic Chicken & Rice Recipe is here to steal your heart. Imagine juicy, golden chicken thighs glazed in a luscious honey butter garlic sauce, nestled atop perfectly cooked, fluffy rice that’s soaked in all those rich, savory flavors. It’s comfort food made effortlessly delicious, all cooked in just one pan to save you time and dishes. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to for busy weeknights or anytime you want to impress with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things delightfully simple, but each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting that irresistible balance of sweet, savory, and buttery goodness. From the fresh garlic’s aromatic punch to the bright pop of parsley, every component builds layers of flavor and texture.
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, thighs hold up well during cooking and soak up the sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup white rice (uncooked): Acts as the perfect canvas to soak up all the flavorful liquids and create a comforting base.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant, savory depth that makes the dish pop.
- 3 tablespoons honey: Provides a natural sweetness that balances out the garlic and soy sauce.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Infuses the dish with richness and helps create that sticky, delightful glaze.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Ensures the rice cooks perfectly while adding savory notes.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Lends umami depth and saltiness to the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken and adding a subtle fruitiness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal brightness at the end to lighten the dish.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- Black pepper, to taste: Adds a gentle heat and depth.
- 3 slices lemon (optional, for garnish): Brings a zesty pop and beautiful color for serving.
How to Make One-Pan Honey Butter Garlic Chicken & Rice Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by generously seasoning your chicken thighs with salt and black pepper. Then, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the chicken thighs on both sides until they’re golden brown and nearly cooked through—this gives you that gorgeous caramelized flavor and locks in the juices. Once seared, set the chicken aside. This step sets a solid flavor foundation you’ll love.
Step 2: Craft the Honey Butter Garlic Sauce
Without cleaning the pan (we want all those delicious browned bits), reduce heat to medium and add the unsalted butter followed by the minced garlic. Cook until the garlic becomes fragrant and just starts to turn golden. This little step fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that’s pure comfort. Next, stir in the honey and soy sauce to create a sticky, glossy glaze that’s both savory and sweet.
Step 3: Cook the Rice in the Flavorful Liquid
Now, stir the uncooked white rice into the skillet so it’s fully coated in that honey butter garlic sauce. This ensures every grain is bursting with flavor. Pour in the chicken broth and give it a quick mix. This flavorful liquid will cook the rice perfectly while soaking up all those lovely flavors.
Step 4: Simmer Everything Together
Nestle the seared chicken thighs gently back into the pan, nestling them right on top of the rice. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let everything simmer undisturbed for 18 to 22 minutes. This magic time frame allows the rice to cook tenderly while the chicken finishes cooking, soaking up all those wonderful sauce layers.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Once the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed, remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh pop of color and brightness. If you love a little citrusy kick, add lemon slices as a garnish. Your One-Pan Honey Butter Garlic Chicken & Rice Recipe is ready to serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve One-Pan Honey Butter Garlic Chicken & Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a perfect finishing touch that brings not only vibrant color but also a mild herbal lift to this rich meal. If you’re feeling fancy, a few thin lemon slices or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens every bite wonderfully. A light scattering of cracked black pepper can also add subtle texture and a hint of spice.
Side Dishes
This dish shines all on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or some roasted seasonal vegetables. Simple steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans provide a lovely contrast in texture and freshness without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve everything directly from the skillet right at the table, inviting friends and family to help themselves to this hearty delight. Alternatively, plate individual portions with a wedge of lemon on the side and a sprinkle of parsley for a restaurant-style feel that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One-Pan Honey Butter Garlic Chicken & Rice Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The rice will continue to soak up flavors overnight, deepening the taste.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool completely before freezing and consider leaving out the lemon garnish, as it does not freeze well.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the rice seems dry to bring back some moisture and freshness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful during cooking, especially in a one-pan dish like this. If you use breasts, watch the cooking time carefully to avoid drying them out.
Is brown rice a good substitute?
You can swap in brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly and be prepared for texture changes. White rice is best for the tender, fluffy result in this recipe.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep the dish gluten-free. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a safe and tasty option.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
Dried parsley can be used in a pinch, though fresh parsley offers a brighter flavor and more appealing look. You might also try fresh chives or cilantro for a different but delicious twist.
Is lemon necessary for the dish?
Lemon is optional but highly recommended. Its zesty brightness cuts through the richness of the honey butter sauce and adds a lovely fresh aroma. If you’re not a fan, feel free to skip or swap for a light drizzle of vinegar or a bit of zest.
Final Thoughts
Once you make this One-Pan Honey Butter Garlic Chicken & Rice Recipe, it’s hard to go back to ordinary dinners. With its perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and buttery flavors all coming together in one comforting skillet, it makes mealtime both simple and special. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to this soul-soothing classic—you won’t regret it!
Print
One-Pan Honey Butter Garlic Chicken & Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This one-pan honey butter garlic chicken and rice recipe is a deliciously simple meal that combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with flavorful honey, garlic, and soy sauce glaze. Cooked all in one skillet with rice and chicken broth, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce & Rice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 cup white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 3 slices lemon (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken thighs evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear them on both sides until golden brown and almost cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Butter: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic to the same skillet and cook until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly browned, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add Honey and Soy Sauce: Stir in the honey and soy sauce, creating a sticky glaze in the pan that will coat the rice and chicken.
- Add Rice and Broth: Add the uncooked white rice to the skillet and stir well to coat each grain in the sauce. Pour in the chicken broth and stir briefly to combine.
- Simmer Chicken and Rice: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the rice mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let everything simmer gently for 18-22 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish. Garnish with lemon slices if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat.
- Adjust honey quantity for sweetness preference.
- White rice is recommended, but jasmine or basmati can be used for added fragrance.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute tamari for soy sauce.
- Garnishing with lemon slices adds a fresh citrus note that balances the richness.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
