Season your chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper to ensure they are flavorful throughout.
Heat olive oil and 1.5 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until melted and hot. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and sear until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, being careful not to burn it as that will create bitterness.
Stir in red pepper flakes, parsley, and lemon juice or a splash of chicken broth to create a sauce filled with layers of flavor. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes before returning the chicken to the skillet.
Return the seared chicken back into the skillet, coating it in the flavorful garlic sauce while simmering together for an additional 2–3 minutes.
In a separate saucepan, bring chicken broth and milk or cream to a gentle simmer before adding uncooked rice. Cover and cook until tender according to package instructions—typically around 15-18 minutes.