Easy Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

Name: Easy Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs); 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced); 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (or as needed); 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: May 23, 2025

by Olivia

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This amazing chicken dish makes meal prep easy and enjoyable.
The creamy garlic sauce brings irresistible flavor to every bite.
Vibrant colors make it visually appealing for any dinner occasion.
It’s versatile enough for lunch boxes or as a dinner sidekick.

Ingredients for Easy Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; they’re the heart of our creamy sauce.
Long-Grain Rice: A cup or two will do! This fluffy base soaks up all the delicious flavors.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness while enhancing that rich chicken flavor.
Heavy Cream: The secret to that luscious sauce; it adds richness that will make you swoon.
Olive Oil: For cooking our chicken and adding a hint of flavor; choose extra virgin if you want to impress!

For the Sauce:

Pasta Water: Reserve some from cooking pasta for extra starchiness in your sauce—it thickens beautifully!
Dried Oregano: Just a sprinkle brings an aromatic kick that complements the garlic beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Easy Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and chopping the garlic finely. You’ll want everything handy when it’s time to cook; trust me—it makes life easier!

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine one cup of long-grain rice and two cups of chicken broth. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover until the rice absorbs all that delicious broth—about 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

While your rice cooks away happily, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet. Sear them for about six minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Make That Creamy Garlic Sauce

Once your chicken is done, remove it from the pan (but don’t clean it—you want those glorious drippings!). Lower the heat slightly and toss in garlic. Cook until fragrant—around one minute—then pour in heavy cream and reserved pasta water. Stir well!

Step 5: Add Flavor

Sprinkle oregano into your sauce while stirring gently. Let it simmer for about five minutes until it thickens slightly—this is where magic happens!

Step 6: Assemble Your Bowls

Fluff up the rice with a fork before serving it in bowls. Slice your juicy chicken breasts and layer them over the rice. Finish by generously drizzling that heavenly creamy garlic sauce on top.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every bite as though it’s your last—a bowl this good deserves no less than complete devotion!

You Must Know

This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating your chicken to infuse it with flavor while you prepare the creamy garlic sauce. Sear the chicken to achieve that golden-brown crust, then cook your rice. Combine everything in a bowl and drizzle with sauce for a perfect finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or beef if you’re feeling adventurous! Add some vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra crunch, or sprinkle in your favorite herbs to elevate the flavor even more.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to keep the rice moist and microwave until heated through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always let your chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
Use fresh garlic instead of powdered for a more robust taste.
Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken to ensure even cooking.

After making this dish, my friend declared it “the best thing since sliced bread”—which is saying something! It became a staple at our weekly dinners, always sparking laughter and seconds from everyone around the table.

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Easy Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe?

To make Easy Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce, you will need boneless chicken breasts, jasmine rice, garlic, vegetable broth, heavy cream, olive oil, and your choice of vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers. For seasoning, use salt, pepper, and herbs such as thyme or parsley. This combination creates a flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Make sure to have the right quantities on hand to ensure a delicious meal that everyone will love.

How long does it take to prepare Easy Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe?

Preparing Easy Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce typically takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish. This includes cooking the rice and chicken as well as preparing the creamy garlic sauce. The process is straightforward, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. Just follow the steps closely, and you will have a wholesome meal ready in no time. Cooking in batches can also help streamline the process if you’re making larger servings.

Can I customize the vegetables in Easy Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe?

Absolutely! You can easily customize the vegetables in Easy Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce according to your preferences or seasonal availability. Options include carrots, snap peas, spinach, or zucchini. Adding vegetables not only enhances flavor but also boosts nutritional value. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to find your favorite mix that pairs well with chicken and rice while complementing the creamy garlic sauce.

Is Easy Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Easy Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are excellent for meal prep. You can batch-cook the chicken and rice ahead of time and divide them into containers for individual meals throughout the week. Store the creamy garlic sauce separately to maintain freshness. This way, you can quickly reheat your meals without losing flavor or texture, making it a convenient option for busy days when you still want a hearty and nutritious dinner.

Conclusion for Easy Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

In summary, Easy Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce provide a quick and delightful meal that is perfect for any day of the week. With simple ingredients like chicken, rice, and fresh vegetables tossed in a rich garlic sauce, this recipe brings comfort to your table without complexity. The customization options allow you to tailor the dish according to your taste preferences while ensuring healthy eating habits. Enjoy this dish as part of your regular meal rotation for satisfying dinners!

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