There’s something magical about the combination of perfectly cooked rice, tender chicken, and the rich indulgence of a whole stick of butter that transforms a simple meal into pure comfort food heaven. This stick of butter rice with chicken recipe has been passed down through generations in Southern kitchens, where cooks understood that sometimes the best ingredients are the simplest ones. The technique of using an entire stick of butter creates an incredibly creamy, flavorful rice that serves as the perfect backdrop for succulent chicken pieces.
What makes this buttered rice recipe truly special is its foolproof nature and incredible versatility. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or preparing a comforting meal for guests, this one-pot wonder delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The stick of butter rice becomes incredibly fluffy and rich, while the chicken remains juicy and flavorful, creating a complete meal that’s both satisfying and elegant enough for any occasion.
Recipe Information
- Difficulty: Easy
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6-8 people
- Cost: Affordable
Ingredients for Stick of Butter Rice with Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Stick of Butter Rice:
- 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter
- 2 cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 3½ cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (optional, for cilantro lime variation)
Equipment Required
- Large oven-safe Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Kitchen timer
Recipe Preparation: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, ensuring each piece is well-coated. This combination of spices creates a flavorful base that complements the rich butter rice perfectly.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage since it will finish cooking with the rice in the oven. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Butter Base
In the same pot, add the entire stick of butter and let it melt completely over medium heat. This is the secret to achieving that incredibly rich, buttery rice that makes this recipe so special. The butter should foam slightly and smell nutty.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion to the melted butter and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The combination of butter, onion, and garlic creates an aromatic base that infuses every grain of rice.
Step 5: Toast the Rice
Add the uncooked rice to the pot and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until each grain is coated with the butter mixture and slightly toasted. This step is crucial for achieving perfectly fluffy rice and prevents the grains from sticking together.
Step 6: Add Liquid and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth, add salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. The liquid should completely cover the rice by about ½ inch. If needed, add a little more broth or water.
Step 7: Combine Chicken and Rice
Return the seared chicken pieces to the pot, nestling them evenly throughout the rice mixture. The chicken should be partially submerged but with some pieces visible on top.
Step 8: Bake in the Oven
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. This rice in the oven method ensures even cooking and prevents burning on the stovetop.
Step 9: Rest and Finish
Remove from oven and let stand for 10 minutes without removing the lid. This resting period allows the rice to finish steaming and the flavors to meld together. Remove bay leaves, fluff with a fork, and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime juice if desired for a cilantro lime chicken variation.
Chef’s Tips and Variations
Pro Tips for Perfect Results:
- Use long-grain rice for the best texture – it remains fluffy and doesn’t become mushy
- Don’t skip the toasting step – it adds depth of flavor and prevents sticky rice
- Let the dish rest – this is crucial for perfectly cooked rice
- Check liquid levels – if rice seems dry during cooking, add a splash more broth
Delicious Variations:
Lemon Chicken Rice Version:
Replace lime juice with fresh lemon juice and add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright, citrusy twist that pairs beautifully with the rich butter.
Veggie-Enhanced Version:
Transform this into a more complete meal by adding diced bell peppers, frozen peas, or corn kernels during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This creates excellent veggie side dish recipes integration.
Spicy Kick:
Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning for those who enjoy heat with their comfort food.
Storage and Reheating:
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture, or reheat in a covered pot on the stovetop over low heat.
Perfect Side Dishes and Serving Suggestions
While this stick of butter rice with chicken is a complete meal on its own, it pairs wonderfully with:
- Fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness
- Steamed broccoli or green beans for added nutrition and color
- Cornbread or dinner rolls to soak up any extra buttery goodness
- Coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
This recipe works beautifully as part of larger meal planning, serving as both a hearty main dish and an elegant side when portions are adjusted. The rice side dish recipes category is elevated by the addition of chicken, making it suitable for any occasion from casual family dinners to entertaining guests.
Nutritional Benefits
Each serving provides approximately:
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
The combination of chicken and rice creates a complete protein, while the butter adds essential fats for satiety and flavor. Using chicken broth instead of water adds extra nutrients and significantly enhances the taste profile.
Why This Recipe Works Every Time
The genius of this stick of butter rice with chicken lies in its simplicity and foolproof technique. The butter creates a rich foundation that coats every grain of rice, while the oven method ensures even cooking without the need for constant monitoring. The result is consistently perfect rice that’s never mushy or undercooked.
The chicken thighs remain incredibly tender and juicy, infusing the rice with their savory flavors as everything cooks together. This one-pot approach not only saves time on cleanup but also allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a harmonious dish that’s much more than the sum of its parts.
Conclusion
This stick of butter rice with chicken recipe proves that the most satisfying meals often come from the simplest ingredients prepared with care and technique. The combination of perfectly seasoned chicken, incredibly rich and fluffy rice, and the magic of slow oven cooking creates a dish that’s both comforting and impressive.
Whether you’re looking for butter rice recipes that feed a crowd, rice dishes recipes for weeknight dinners, or rice recipes side options that can stand alone as a main course, this recipe delivers on all fronts. The versatility allows for countless variations while the reliable technique ensures success every time.
Have you tried this recipe? We’d love to hear about your experience! Leave a comment below sharing your results, any variations you tried, or questions you might have. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who appreciate good comfort food – they’ll thank you for introducing them to this incredibly satisfying dish!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this stick of butter rice recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice requires about 45-50 minutes in the oven and an additional ½ cup of broth. The texture will be nuttier and chewier than traditional white rice versions.
What’s the best way to make this recipe if I don’t have an oven-safe pot?
You can cook the rice on the stovetop by bringing it to a boil, then reducing heat to low, covering tightly, and simmering for 18-20 minutes. Add the chicken back in the last 10 minutes to heat through completely.
Can I make this stick of butter rice recipes ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish actually improves in flavor when made a day ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently with a splash of broth to restore moisture. It’s perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
How can I make this recipe healthier without losing the buttery flavor?
You can reduce the butter to 4-6 tablespoons instead of a full stick, or substitute half the butter with olive oil. Adding extra vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers also increases nutritional value while maintaining great taste.
What other proteins work well with this buttered rice recipe?
This versatile rice base works wonderfully with shrimp, turkey, pork, or even plant-based proteins like seasoned tofu or tempeh. Adjust cooking times accordingly – seafood should be added in the last 10 minutes to prevent overcooking.
