Creamy Garlic Chicken With Rice

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken With Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups water or chicken broth; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Comforts

I absolutely love this Creamy Garlic Chicken with Rice recipe! Each time I make it, I'm enveloped in the warm, comforting aroma of garlic and cream. The chicken turns out tender and juicy while the rice soaks up all that delicious sauce, creating a meal that feels both indulgent and satisfying. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or when I want to impress guests with minimal fuss. You won't believe how quickly the flavors come together; it’s a go-to in my home that everyone always enjoys.

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-10T23:37:35.793Z

When I first tried making Creamy Garlic Chicken with Rice, I was amazed by how simple yet delicious it could be. The trick I discovered was to lightly brown the chicken first, which locks in the juices. Then, adding fresh minced garlic towards the end of cooking really elevates the flavor.

After experimenting with various ingredients, I found that a splash of chicken broth and heavy cream brings everything together beautifully. It's been a hit not just at home, but whenever I've made it for friends. This dish never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Lush garlic flavor that fills the kitchen.
Rich creaminess that complements tender chicken.
A one-pot wonder that makes cleanup a breeze.

Perfecting the Creamy Garlic Sauce

The creamy garlic sauce is the star of this dish, and getting it right can make all the difference. When you sauté the minced garlic, do it over medium heat for just one minute; this releases the aromatic oils without burning, which can create a bitter taste. Once you add the chicken broth and cream, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. You'll know it's ready when it starts to thicken slightly, coating the back of a spoon with a luscious gloss.

If you prefer a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine before the chicken broth. It adds a depth that complements the garlic beautifully. For a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can be stirred in at the same time as the garlic. Such variations not only enhance the taste but also personalize the dish to your family’s preferences.

Choosing and Cooking the Chicken

Selecting the right chicken breasts is crucial for texture in this recipe. Look for breasts that are plump and have a smooth texture, which typically indicates freshness. For best results when searing, ensure your skillet is preheated before adding the chicken. A hot skillet will create a beautiful golden brown crust, sealing in the juices for that tender, juicy finish. If the chicken starts to stick, it’s a sign that it isn’t quite ready to flip.

To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you have larger breasts, consider butterflying them for faster, even cooking. If you're looking for a lighter version, chicken thighs can be used instead, as they remain juicy even when cooked longer.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

For the Rice

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups water or chicken broth
Salt to taste

Instructions

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is fluffy.

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then pour in the chicken broth and cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet, reduce heat to low, and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

Serve

Serve the creamy chicken over the rice and garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your homemade Creamy Garlic Chicken with Rice!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top before serving. If you want to add more veggies, steamed broccoli works beautifully alongside this dish.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this creamy garlic chicken with rice opens up a variety of serving options. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, which provide a nice crunch and color contrast to the creamy sauce. For an Italian twist, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top right before serving. This little addition adds a delightful nutty flavor that complements the garlic beautifully.

If you want to transform it into a hearty casserole, consider adding in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach right before combining everything in the skillet. This not only boosts the nutrition but also enhances the dish's flavor profile. Additionally, serving it in a large serving dish family-style can create a more inviting atmosphere, perfect for gatherings.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is perfect for meal prep. You can cook everything in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens. Stir gently to prevent the chicken from becoming tough. Alternatively, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s in an airtight container.

When storing uncooked rice, make sure to keep it in a cool, dry place. Cooked rice should also be refrigerated within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth. If you want to reduce prep time on a busy weeknight, consider using pre-cooked rice or frozen vegetables that can be easily added to the pan while reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use skin-on chicken?

Yes, skin-on chicken works great but may add a bit more grease to the sauce.

→ How can I make it healthier?

You can substitute low-fat cream or Greek yogurt for the heavy cream.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and reheat them when you’re ready to serve.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed vegetables or a simple salad are excellent side dishes.