Creamy Garlic Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Meals

I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Chicken And Rice for dinner! It’s a dish that perfectly combines the richness of cream, the savory flavor of garlic, and tender chicken, all served over fluffy rice. Whenever I need a comforting meal, this recipe always hits the spot. Plus, the aromas that fill my kitchen while it’s cooking, make it feel like a special occasion. The best part? It all comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner option.

Created by

Xenia Radcliffe

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:01:34.740Z

When I first tried making Creamy Garlic Chicken And Rice, I was surprised by how easy it was to achieve such a decadent flavor. After experimenting with different seasonings, I discovered that a simple blend of garlic and herbs works wonders. The key is to sauté the garlic lightly before adding the cream; this technique enhances its flavor and brings warmth into the dish.

One memorable evening, I served this to friends who couldn’t believe it was homemade. They loved it so much, they asked for seconds! Since then, I’ve kept it in my regular rotation, and I often add some fresh herbs on top for a lovely presentation. It truly is a crowd-pleaser!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy sauce that clings to each bite.
Aromatic garlic fills the kitchen with its irresistible scent.
Perfect comfort food that everyone will enjoy.

      

Key Techniques for Success

Cooking the chicken properly is crucial for achieving tender, juicy meat in this dish. When seasoning the chicken, don't be shy with the salt and pepper; this is your first layer of flavor. Searing the chicken until it has a nice golden exterior helps to lock in moisture. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. Remember, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking will help maintain its juiciness.

The creamy sauce is where the magic happens in this recipe. When sautéing the garlic, keeping an eye on it is essential; you want it fragrant but not burnt, which can turn bitter. Stirring the garlic continuously for about a minute at medium heat should give you a lovely aroma. Pouring in the heavy cream and chicken broth simultaneously helps to deglaze the pan, ensuring any delicious bits stuck to the bottom are incorporated into the sauce.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of rice is also important. Long-grain rice works wonderfully here, as it tends to remain fluffy and separate rather than clumping. If you're looking for a quicker cooking option, consider using instant rice, but adjust the liquid and cooking time according to the package instructions to ensure it integrates well with the sauce. Alternatively, brown rice can add a nutty flavor and increase fiber, though it will require additional cooking time and more liquid.

Heavy cream is a staple for creating a luxurious, rich sauce, but if you're aiming to lighten the dish, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative, though the texture may differ slightly. Just keep in mind that using a lower-fat option may result in a thinner sauce. If you prefer a dairy-free version, coconut milk is an excellent alternative, providing creaminess and a hint of sweetness that complements the garlic beautifully.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken And Rice

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and measured before starting to streamline the cooking process.

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Combine with Rice

Add the rice to the sauce, stir well, and return the chicken to the pan. Cover and cook for another 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately, enjoying the creamy goodness!

Pair the dish with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or peas to the dish for added nutrition and color. You can also substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream for a lighter version.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning for a busy week, this dish can be made in advance. After cooking, allow the creamy garlic chicken and rice to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help revive the creaminess without the sauce becoming too thick.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Portion it into single servings in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat gently on the stove. This makes it an ideal option for meal prep and ensures you always have a comforting meal ready to go.

Serving Suggestions

While this creamy garlic chicken and rice is a satisfying main dish on its own, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Roasted broccoli or green beans with a squeeze of lemon can enhance the dish's flavor profile and add a delightful crunch.

For a bit of a twist, try topping the dish with crispy fried onions or toasted pine nuts to add texture. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can also provide a tangy contrast to the creamy sauce. This flexibility makes it a versatile recipe that you can customize to fit your tastes or the occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned chicken?

While fresh chicken gives better flavor, you can use canned chicken for a quicker option, just add it towards the end of cooking.

→ What type of rice is best for this recipe?

Long-grain rice works best, but you can also use jasmine or basmati rice for added aroma.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the dish after it has cooled completely. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.