Creamy Garlic Chicken With Rice

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken With Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 cups cooked rice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Hearty & Comforting

I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Chicken With Rice because it’s a comforting dish that warms the soul. The combination of juicy chicken, velvety sauce, and fluffy rice creates a meal that feels like a warm hug. This recipe has become a weeknight favorite for us, as it comes together in under 30 minutes. The garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the sauce, making it irresistible. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up after a long day!

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-02-15T00:25:36.354Z

Cooking this Creamy Garlic Chicken With Rice has become a cherished routine in my home. I once tried a similar recipe at a friend's dinner party, and I was hooked. Their secret was using fresh garlic and a splash of white wine, which I’ve incorporated into my version. The result is a dish that bursts with flavor and creamy goodness!

One of my favorite tips is to let the chicken rest after cooking before slicing it. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and succulent. I also like to stir in some spinach right at the end, adding a pop of color and nutrition!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce infused with garlic
Quick and easy to make on busy weeknights
One-pot dish means less cleanup!

The Role of Ingredients

In Creamy Garlic Chicken With Rice, each ingredient plays a crucial part in creating the dish's memorable flavor profile. The chicken breasts not only serve as the protein base but also absorb the savory essence of the sauce. Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken for the best results; look for breasts that are firm and slightly moist. If you're in a pinch, boneless thighs can be a delightful substitute, providing even more flavor due to their higher fat content.

Garlic is perhaps the star ingredient in this dish, with its aromatic qualities elevating the overall experience. When sautéing, aim for a golden color but avoid burning the garlic to prevent bitterness. Substituting fresh garlic with pre-minced or powdered garlic can save time, but will lack the fresh punch that can only be achieved with raw garlic. If you prefer a milder flavor, roasting the garlic before adding it to the sauce can provide a sweet undertone instead.

Perfecting the Sauce

The creamy sauce for this recipe is best achieved by using heavy cream, which lends richness without curdling. If you're looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can be used, but keep in mind that the sauce may be slightly thinner. Be sure to let the heavy cream simmer properly after it’s added to the chicken broth to allow it to thicken into a luscious coating that clings well to both the chicken and rice.

To ensure the sauce develops a deep flavor, consider adding a pinch of dried herbs, like thyme or oregano, during the simmering stage. This little addition introduces another layer of complexity. Additionally, you can finish the sauce with a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of white wine for brightness, which pairs beautifully with the richness of the cream.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious meal:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
2 cups cooked rice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to prepare everything before starting to cook!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delightful dish:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes. Then, stir in the heavy cream and let the mixture thicken for about 3 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Serve over a bed of cooked rice and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy!

Serve with your favorite veggies for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice to the sauce before serving. Also, feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist.

Make-Ahead Tips

Creamy Garlic Chicken can easily become a make-ahead meal on busy weeks. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can keep for up to three days. When ready to reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating. Pair it with freshly cooked rice for a meal that tastes just as good as the first time.

For longer storage, this dish can be frozen. Portion the chicken and sauce together in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, reheat using the same stovetop method, adding a splash of extra chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is perfect on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience by serving it with a simple salad or steamed vegetables. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the creamy sauce beautifully. Additionally, you may want to consider offering some crusty bread on the side to scoop up every last bit of sauce, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

For a heartier meal, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce before combining it with the chicken. Not only do these additions enhance flavor, but they also contribute extra nutrition and texture, making the meal more well-rounded.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but make sure to properly thaw them before cooking.

→ What can I serve with this chicken dish?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a simple salad.

→ Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.