If there’s one dish I could eat on repeat and never tire of, it’s Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce. Each bite is the perfect harmony of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a silky-smooth sauce bursting with garlicky goodness. It’s an everyday dinner that feels like something special, and I love how the sauce clings to every grain of rice and slice of chicken. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just craving comfort in a bowl, this recipe brings a little restaurant magic right to your kitchen table.

Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need are a handful of down-to-earth ingredients that work together beautifully. Each one has its own role, creating color, flavor, and that signature creamy texture you’ll crave again and again.

Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, these stay juicy and soak up all the sauce for maximum flavor with every bite.
Long-grain white rice: Fluffy and light, this rice forms the base that soaks up the creamy garlic sauce perfectly.
Fresh garlic (4-6 cloves): Don’t skimp here—the garlic is what makes the sauce irresistible, filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.
Heavy cream: This is the secret to that luscious, dreamy sauce that transforms the whole meal.
Low-sodium soy sauce: Adds a savory depth and a hint of umami, balancing the richness of the cream.
Vegetable oil: Ensures your chicken gets that golden, crisp edge without overpowering other flavors.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing out the best in both your chicken and sauce.

How to Make Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start with rinsing your long-grain white rice under cold water—this step keeps your grains fluffy and separate. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with two cups of water, bring to a boil, then turn the heat down to low, cover, and let it simmer undisturbed. Eighteen to twenty minutes later, you’ll have a pot of perfectly cooked rice that’s ready to catch every drop of sauce.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

While the rice is cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper—this is your chance to lock in flavor. Lay the chicken into the hot skillet, and let them sizzle away for about six to seven minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. This gives you those irresistible browned edges. Set the chicken aside and let it rest before slicing, so none of those juices escape.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t wash it—you want to keep all those tasty bits!), add your chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant. Once the garlic starts to turn golden, pour in the heavy cream and soy sauce. Stir constantly for around five minutes; you’ll see the sauce start to thicken and turn glossy, infused with that punchy garlic flavor and just the right balance of savory notes.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Return your sliced chicken breasts right into the skillet, making sure every piece gets a generous coating of the creamy garlic sauce. Let it all warm through together for another two to three minutes—this lets the flavors meld and the chicken gets extra moist and tender.

Step 5: Build Your Bowls

Fluff up the cooked rice with a fork and divide it into your serving bowls. Layer the glossy, saucy chicken on top and pour over any extra sauce. Now’s your moment to add your favorite garnishes and make it your own!

How to Serve Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

A little garnish goes a long way! Sprinkle chopped parsley, cilantro, or sliced green onions for a burst of color and a touch of freshness. Toasted sesame seeds or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add extra texture and zing, taking these Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce to new heights.

Side Dishes

These bowls are a one-stop meal, but if you want to round things out, pair with simple steamed broccoli, a crisp cucumber salad, or even some roasted carrots. Light, vibrant veggies work best—they won’t compete with the rich, garlicky sauce but rather balance the flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond basic bowls! Try serving your Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce family-style, letting everyone serve themselves, or pack them up into meal prep containers for quick grab-and-go lunches. Mini versions in small cups are fun for parties too—it’s a surefire hit no matter the occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the chicken and rice in separate airtight containers in your fridge. This keeps the rice from getting too soggy and the chicken ultra-tender. The sauce will continue to develop flavor overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch even better!

Freezing

Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce freeze beautifully. Portion out the rice and chicken with sauce into freezer-safe containers; they’ll keep for up to two months. For best results, freeze the garnishes separately and add fresh upon reheating for that just-made feel.

Reheating

To reheat, microwave your bowl covered for a minute or two, stirring halfway, until hot. If the sauce seems too thick, just splash in a bit of milk or water to loosen it up. The flavors will be as bold and vibrant as the day you made it, and the chicken stays juicy thanks to the luxurious sauce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even juicier and a little more forgiving if you’re worried about overcooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through, and they’ll soak up the creamy garlic sauce beautifully.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the sauce?

You can swap the heavy cream for unsweetened coconut cream or a rich oat milk if you’re looking to make the sauce dairy-free. It will change the flavor slightly, but the sauce will still be delicious and creamy.

What kind of rice works best for Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce?

Long-grain white rice is classic for this recipe, but jasmine or basmati work equally well. If you prefer brown rice for its nutty flavor and extra fiber, that’s also a tasty option—just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I prepare elements ahead for meal prepping?

Definitely! Cook the rice, sauce, and chicken up to three days ahead. Store them separately in the fridge, then assemble your bowls when you’re ready to eat for a fresh, flavorful meal any day of the week.

How can I add more vegetables to the dish?

For more color and nutrition, stir in sautéed bell peppers, steamed broccoli, or snap peas either into the sauce or as a layer between the rice and chicken. The creamy garlicky base pairs well with just about any veggie you love.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce—every element is cozy, tasty, and downright satisfying. Give these bowls a try and let their simple magic become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine. Happy cooking!

Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 27 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a delicious and comforting meal that is easy to prepare. Tender, golden-brown chicken slices are served in a rich and creamy garlic sauce, paired with fluffy long-grain white rice. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Rice:

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups water

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

4–6 cloves fresh garlic, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

Instructions

Cook the Rice: Rinse the long-grain rice under cold water, then combine with 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the water is absorbed.
Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, cook each side for about 6-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté chopped garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and soy sauce; stir continuously for about 5 minutes until thickened.
Combine and Serve: Return sliced chicken to the skillet, ensuring it’s coated with sauce; warm through for an additional 2-3 minutes. Fluff the rice and divide into bowls; top with the saucy chicken and garnish as desired.

Notes

You can customize these bowls by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs for extra flavor.
Feel free to adjust the seasoning and thickness of the sauce to suit your taste preferences.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: International