Creamy Garlic Chicken With Rice

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken With Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish); 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Collection

I love making Creamy Garlic Chicken with Rice for dinner because it never fails to impress. The rich, velvety sauce infused with garlic complements the tender chicken perfectly. In just a little over 30 minutes, I can whip up a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s become a family favorite, and I often find myself doubling the recipe for leftovers. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this dish has a special place at our table.

Created by

Elspeth Murray

Last updated on 2026-02-10T21:29:35.954Z

When I first experimented with this Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe, I wanted to create a dish that was both comforting and easy to prepare. The key to success is sautéing the garlic until it's just golden, letting its flavor bloom without burning. This not only enhances the taste but also fills the kitchen with an amazing aroma that gets everyone excited for dinner.

Another tip I learned is to let the chicken rest after cooking before slicing it. This keeps the juices from escaping, resulting in moist and tender chicken every time. It’s these little details that turn a simple recipe into something special!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy garlic sauce that tantalizes the taste buds
Tender chicken that is juicy and flavorful
Quick and easy preparation perfect for busy nights

Mastering the Garlic Sauce

The garlic sauce in this dish is what truly elevates it from ordinary to extraordinary. Sautéing the minced garlic until fragrant is key; this releases its essential oils and creates a robust foundation for your sauce. Be vigilant, as garlic can burn quickly—aim for a light golden color to avoid bitterness. The combination of heavy cream and chicken broth balances richness with a lighter texture, creating a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken and rice.

Adding Parmesan cheese not only thickens the sauce but also enhances its flavor profile. As it melts into the sauce, it introduces a salty, nutty element that complements the garlic. If you find that your sauce isn't thickening as expected, allow it to simmer a bit longer, stirring frequently. Remember, the goal is a creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon—this means it’s ready to envelop your chicken!

Choosing the Right Rice

Rice acts as a comforting base for this creamy dish, and choosing the right type can make a big difference in texture and flavor. While this recipe works well with both white and brown rice, I prefer brown rice for its nutty flavor and chewy texture, which provides a nice contrast to the creamy sauce. Ensure your rice is cooked to al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when served under the sauce.

To elevate the dish further, consider infusing the rice with additional flavor. Cooking your rice in chicken broth instead of water enhances its taste without additional effort. For an extra touch, toss in a bay leaf or a few sprigs of thyme while cooking. Once it's ready, fluff it with a fork, and you’ll have a flavorful foundation that complements the garlic chicken beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Rice

2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Chicken

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

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, allowing it to soak up the delicious sauce. Serve the creamy garlic chicken over cooked rice, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding steamed broccoli or spinach to the dish for added color and nutrition.

Preparing for Meal Prep

This Creamy Garlic Chicken dish is fantastic for meal prepping! Once cooked, the chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to four days without losing its juiciness. To reheat, simply place it in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back its creamy texture. This dish also freezes well—just ensure to store it in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the skillet or microwave for best results.

If you're doubling the recipe for meal prep, consider adjusting the sauce ingredients accordingly. Making extra sauce will ensure there's enough to coat the chicken and rice after reheating. Just be mindful that the sauce should be slightly thicker when originally prepared, as reheating can sometimes loosen the consistency.

Serving Suggestions

While this Creamy Garlic Chicken is delightful on its own, there are numerous ways to serve it that can enhance your meal experience. A side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans adds a pop of color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the dish. Alternatively, consider a fresh salad with a light vinaigrette for a crisp contrast to the creamy sauce.

For a more indulgent experience, you can top the chicken with crispy bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms, adding extra layers of flavor. Additionally, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can provide a subtle heat that cuts through the creaminess, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe and will add even more flavor.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version, but it may alter the taste slightly.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just reheat and serve over fresh rice when ready.

→ What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.