Stick of Butter Chicken and Rice

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that can effortlessly feed a crowd or satisfy your family on a busy weeknight, then you’ve come to the right place! My Stick of Butter Chicken and Rice recipe is a true gem in my kitchen. It combines tender chicken with rich, buttery rice—creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. There’s something magical about layering these flavors together and letting them meld beautifully in the oven.

This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends. It feels like a warm hug on a plate, and I can assure you that everyone will be coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this creamy, buttery dish. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone together at the table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. It’s great for meal prep!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of rich soups and Montreal steak seasoning creates an unforgettable taste that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the heart of this dish—simple, wholesome ingredients that create magic when combined. You probably have most of these items in your pantry already!

For the Dish

• 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice (not instant rice)
• 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup
• 10.5 ounce can cream of celery soup (or cream of mushroom, if preferred)
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 to 1 ½ teaspoons Montreal steak seasoning
• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into large chunks)
• 5 tablespoons salted butter (thinly sliced)

Optional Garnish

• Chopped parsley or paprika

Variations

One of the best parts about this Stick of Butter Chicken and Rice recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these easy variations:

• Swap the protein: If you prefer, use boneless skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option or even try turkey for a twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some frozen peas or chopped carrots for extra color and nutrition. They’ll cook perfectly while baking!
• Change the soups: Experiment with different cream soups like cream of mushroom or broccoli to switch up the flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your meal.

How to Make Stick of Butter Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Greasing ensures that everything cooks evenly and makes cleanup easier—trust me!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together your rice, both cans of soup, chicken broth, and Montreal steak seasoning. This step is crucial as it creates that creamy base which will flavor both the rice and chicken beautifully. Once mixed well, pour this mixture into your greased baking dish.

Step 3: Nestle Chicken Pieces

Now it’s time to nestle those big chunks of chicken on top of the rice mixture. This not only looks appealing but allows those savory juices from the chicken to infuse into the rice while baking.

Step 4: Add Butter

Place thinly sliced butter evenly over the top. Resist the urge to stir! Cover tightly with foil—this keeps all that moisture in as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake

Bake covered for 55 minutes. After this time, uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the rice is tender. That glorious smell wafting through your kitchen means you’re almost ready!

Step 6: Let Rest

Remove from oven (don’t worry about any butter pooling on top; that’s just flavor!) and let it sit covered lightly with foil for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows everything to settle and soak in all that deliciousness.

Step 7: Optional Broil

For an extra touch, pop it under the broiler for just 2-3 minutes until golden brown on top. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired for that fresh finish!

There you have it—a delightful Stick of Butter Chicken and Rice that is sure to become a favorite at your table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Stick of Butter Chicken and Rice

Creating the perfect Stick of Butter Chicken and Rice is all about those little details! Here are some pro tips to help you achieve a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

• Use Quality Chicken: Choosing fresh, high-quality chicken thighs or breasts will enhance the taste and tenderness of your dish. Fresh chicken absorbs flavors better, leading to a juicier result.

• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the dish to sit after baking is essential for flavor absorption. The resting time lets the butter meld into the rice and chicken, ensuring every bite is rich and delicious.

• Layer Properly: When layering your ingredients, spread them evenly. This ensures that the rice cooks uniformly and absorbs all that buttery goodness without any dry spots.

• Experiment with Seasonings: While Montreal steak seasoning adds a great kick, feel free to experiment! Adding garlic powder or paprika can introduce new flavors that take your dish to the next level.

• Cover Tightly with Foil: Keeping the foil snug during baking traps steam, which is crucial for cooking the rice thoroughly. A tight cover prevents moisture loss, resulting in soft, fluffy rice.

How to Serve Stick of Butter Chicken and Rice

Serving this comforting dish can be as simple or creative as you’d like. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more delightful!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a refreshing flavor that brightens up the rich butter sauce.
• Paprika: If you didn’t use it during baking, a light dusting of paprika on top just before serving adds an eye-catching touch and enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile.
• Lemon wedges: Offering lemon wedges on the side lets guests squeeze fresh juice over their servings, adding a zesty contrast to the richness of the chicken and rice.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch that complements the creamy butter chicken perfectly. Plus, it adds vibrant color to your plate!
• Garlic bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish, allowing you to soak up every last bit of that delicious buttery sauce.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the casserole while adding freshness.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add an earthy sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory elements of the main dish. Their caramelization brings out natural sugars, making them a delightful addition.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Stick of Butter Chicken and Rice will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Stick of Butter Chicken and Rice recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance for busy days, ensuring you have a delicious homemade meal ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool down before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. For best results, consume within the first month.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 20-30 minutes).
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about the Stick of Butter Chicken and Rice recipe.

Can I use other types of chicken instead of thighs?

Yes! While this recipe calls for boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, you can use any cut that you prefer. Just ensure they are cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

What is a good side dish with Stick of Butter Chicken and Rice?

This dish is quite filling on its own, but a simple green salad or steamed vegetables would complement it nicely, adding freshness to your meal.

Can I make Stick of Butter Chicken and Rice ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

How should I store leftover Stick of Butter Chicken and Rice?

Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Stick of Butter Chicken and Rice as much as I do! It’s not just a comforting meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings everyone together. Whether you’re preparing it for dinner tonight or saving some for later, I’m sure it will become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!