Name: Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 4-6 cloves fresh garlic; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Salt and pepper to taste

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines juicy chicken and creamy garlic sauce over perfectly cooked rice. It’s easy to prepare, taking under 30 minutes, and offers an incredible flavor balance that’s both savory and comforting. Plus, it’s versatile—swap in your favorite veggies or protein to customize it to your liking!

Ingredients

Boneless skinless chicken breasts (3-4 breasts)
Long-grain white rice (1 cup)
Fresh garlic (4-6 cloves)
Heavy cream (1 cup)
Soy sauce (2 tablespoons)
Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the rice: Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water, then cook it with 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes.
Sauté the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and let rest before slicing.
Make the creamy garlic sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant, then add heavy cream and soy sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combine: Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to coat the chicken in the sauce.
Assemble: Fluff the rice, divide it into bowls, and top with the chicken and creamy garlic sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh.
Add veggies: Stir in steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or peas for extra color and nutrition.
Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness to the dish.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

3. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used, but it will require a longer cooking time.

4. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Make sure to cook the chicken on medium heat and avoid overcooking it. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

You can freeze the chicken and rice separately, but the sauce may not maintain its texture once frozen.

6. Can I add more garlic to the sauce?

Yes, feel free to add more garlic if you enjoy a stronger flavor.

7. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few extra minutes or add a bit of cornstarch dissolved in water.

8. Can I substitute the soy sauce?

Yes, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a lower-sodium alternative.

9. How can I make the rice fluffier?

Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch, ensuring it cooks up light and fluffy.

10. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, the chicken and sauce can be prepared ahead of time. Just reheat and assemble when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce is the perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights or a comforting family dinner. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a flavorful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s customizable to suit different dietary preferences, making it a versatile favorite for any occasion.

Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

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These Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich garlic sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is easy to prepare, versatile, and can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a cozy dinner, this dish delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 20min
Total Time: 30min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéed
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Cook the Rice: Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water, then cook it with 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until fully cooked.
Sauté the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest before slicing.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and soy sauce, and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combine: Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the creamy garlic sauce.
Assemble the Bowls: Fluff the rice, divide it into bowls, and top with sliced chicken and creamy garlic sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
Add Veggies: Stir in steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or peas for extra nutrition and color.
Spicy Variation: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Make it Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.