Go Back
Homemade Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with Rice Pilaf photo

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with Rice Pilaf

This Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with Rice Pilaf is SO EASY! Juicy chicken thighs in garlicky butter paired with fragrant, fluffy rice pilaf for a cozy, flavorful dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 chicken thighs bone-in and skin-on
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 0.5 cup frozen peas
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp Knife and Cutting Board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Set aside.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs skin side down and sear for 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip and cook 3-4 minutes more. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter, then sauté diced onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, careful not to burn.
  4. Add long-grain rice to skillet and stir to coat with garlic butter and onions. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Place seared chicken thighs on top of rice. Cover skillet with lid, reduce heat to low, and cook for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C internal temperature).
  6. In the last 5 minutes, sprinkle frozen peas over rice and chicken. Replace lid and let peas steam. When done, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish.
  7. Serve hot and enjoy the perfect balance of crispy chicken, garlicky butter, and fragrant rice.

Notes

  • Make sure chicken skin is dry before searing to achieve crispiness.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • For a different twist, swap peas with seasonal vegetables like asparagus, tomatoes, or mushrooms.
  • Avoid lifting the lid too often during cooking to keep the rice fluffy and prevent mushiness.