Creamy Garlic Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, diced; 1 cup (200g) uncooked rice; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth; 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rice because it’s a comforting dish that brings my family together. The rich and creamy sauce combined with tender chicken and fluffy rice creates a wonderful meal that's perfect for any occasion. I find that the garlic infusion adds a remarkable depth of flavor, and the recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients, I can whip up a dish that feels special, yet is simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

Created by

Olivia Martin

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:09:34.541Z

Creating my Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rice was a delightful experience where I discovered the magic of combining garlic with cream. The first time I tried this dish, I used freshly minced garlic, which really elevated the flavor profile. Experimenting with different herbs, like thyme and parsley, took the taste to another level.

Not only is this dish tasty, but I also love how the rice absorbs the creamy sauce, making each bite incredibly satisfying. I learned to cook the chicken just right, ensuring it's juicy and tender, which is key for this recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Irresistibly creamy and garlicky flavor that satisfies the senses
One-pot meal for easy cleanup without sacrificing taste
Perfectly cooked rice that soaks up all the delicious sauce

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this creamy garlic chicken and rice dish lies in its simple yet impactful ingredients. The chicken breast, when pan-seared, develops a golden-brown exterior that adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy rice. I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their quick cooking time and adaptability, but you can easily swap them for thighs if you enjoy a richer flavor. Just be mindful to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs typically take a bit longer to cook through.

Uncooked rice plays a crucial role in this recipe, not just as a carb component, but as a vessel that absorbs the creamy garlic sauce. Long-grain rice, like basmati or jasmine, works well for this dish. If you prefer a heartier option, brown rice is a nutritious substitute, but it will require a longer cooking time of about 35-40 minutes to achieve that tender consistency.

Cooking Techniques to Perfect Your Dish

Cooking the chicken thoroughly is key to achieving tenderness. Sear it in olive oil over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes, turning it only once, to allow the surface to brown nicely. Make sure the pieces are evenly cut for uniform cooking – aim for 1-inch pieces. If you notice the chicken sticking to the pan, allow it to cook a bit longer before trying to move it; this will ensure a nice sear and prevent tearing.

When adding the rice and liquid, remember to keep your heat on low once it reaches a gentle simmer. This allows the rice to cook evenly without burning on the bottom. Stir occasionally, checking for the right consistency; the rice should absorb the liquid but remain creamy. If you find the sauce too thick, a splash of additional chicken broth will bring it back to that luscious, creamy state.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful meal:

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) chicken breast, diced
1 cup (200g) uncooked rice
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the creamy goodness:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the rice, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Add the Chicken Back

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and creamy, stirring occasionally.

Serve and Garnish

Once the rice is done, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the garlic. It enhances the depth of the sauce beautifully!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This creamy garlic chicken and rice dish makes for fantastic leftovers. If you want to prepare ahead, you can cook and store the chicken and sauce mixture separately from the rice. This will help prevent the rice from absorbing all the creamy sauce and becoming mushy when stored. Simply combine them before serving, and reheat over low heat on the stove, adding a bit of broth or cream if necessary to restore the sauce's consistency.

For long-term storage, you can freeze portions of this dish. Just cool it completely before transferring it to airtight containers. The chicken and rice will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight and warm it gently on the stove, ensuring it's heated thoroughly before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This creamy garlic chicken and rice serves beautifully with a variety of sides. I love pairing it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a balanced meal. You can also sprinkle extra parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice over the top for a zesty finish that complements the rich and creamy flavors.

For a twist on the classic flavors, consider adding spinach or kale flush into the mix during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only adds a pop of color but also boosts the nutritional value. If you're looking for a bit of heat, tossing in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic can give the dish a nice kick. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find the variations that your family enjoys the most.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

→ Is it okay to use frozen chicken?

Yes, just ensure it is completely thawed before cooking for even results.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a blend of milk and cream for a lighter version.