Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken and Broccoli over Rice

Description

• Texture & Flavor: Tender, pan-seared chicken breast slices with a smoky, caramelized exterior, paired with crisp-tender broccoli florets and fluffy rice, all coated in a decadent garlic cheese sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Bowl Base & Veggies:

• Cooked Rice: 3 to 4 cups (jasmine, basmati, or white rice)

• Broccoli: 2 heads, cut into bite-sized florets

For the Chicken:

• Chicken Breasts: 2 large (cut in half horizontally or pounded to even thickness)

• Olive Oil or Butter: 2 tablespoons

• Seasonings: 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, salt, and black pepper to taste

For the Garlic Butter Cheese Sauce:

• Butter: 3 tablespoons

• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced

• Heavy Cream: 1 cup

• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, freshly grated

• Chicken Broth: 1/4 cup (optional, to thin the sauce if needed)

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice and Broccoli: Prepare your rice according to package directions and keep warm. Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, then set aside.

2. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

3. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes per side until deeply golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 74°C / 165°F). Remove from heat, let rest for a few minutes, and slice into strips.

4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).

5. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

6. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the warm cooked rice among serving bowls. Add a generous portion of steamed broccoli and top with the sliced garlic butter chicken. Pour the rich cheesy sauce generously over the top and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.