Brown-Butter Chicken with Corn-Tomato Rice

Seared chicken and sweet corn rice are balanced with a measured amount of nutty brown butter and a fresh rosemary-tomato-lemon topping.

45 min

4 servings

Sliced seared chicken sits beside glossy corn and parsley rice with a fresh tomato, rosemary, and lemon topping.

Ingredients

1 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice

2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken stock

1 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter

1 tbsp olive oil, divided

1 tsp kosher salt, divided

1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, divided

1 tsp finely chopped fresh rosemary

1 medium lemon

1/4 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley

Equipment

Skillet · Saucepan with lid · Instant-read thermometer · Cutting board · Fine grater · Chef's knife

Watch the butter

Swirl the saucepan as the milk solids turn amber, then add rice promptly so the butter does not scorch.

Finish at the table

Keep the tomato, rosemary, and lemon topping cool, and spoon it over the warm chicken at the last moment.

Prepare the topping and chicken

01. Chop ripe tomatoes, or halve cherry tomatoes when large tomatoes are mealy or out of season; stir in rosemary, lemon zest and juice, oil, salt, and pepper.

02. Pat chicken dry, press to an even thickness, and season both sides so it browns evenly in the skillet.

Start the rice

03. Brown the butter over medium-low heat until amber and nutty, then stir in rice for a minute to coat the grains.

04. Add stock and salt, bring to a gentle boil, cover, and lower the heat; leave the lid on for the first part of cooking.

Cook chicken and corn

05. Sear chicken in hot oil while rice simmers, turning once; check the thickest piece for 165 F before removing it.

06. At the rice interval, fold in fresh corn or frozen corn straight from the freezer, then cover until the grains are tender.

Rest and plate

07. Rest the chicken while you fluff parsley through the rice; the brief pause keeps the slices juicy.

08. Slice chicken across the grain and spoon on the tomato topping just before serving so it stays fresh and bright.