Creamy Garlic Chicken With Rice

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken With Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 cups cooked rice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comforts

I love making Creamy Garlic Chicken with Rice because it's a comforting dish that's surprisingly simple to prepare. The rich flavors of garlic and cream meld beautifully with tender chicken and fluffy rice, creating a satisfying meal that pleases everyone at the table. I've experimented with various herbs and spices to elevate this dish, and I've found that a touch of fresh parsley adds a bright finish. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe never disappoints!

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-02-10T23:49:36.494Z

When I first made Creamy Garlic Chicken with Rice, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The key is to sauté the garlic just enough to release its flavor without burning it, allowing the cream to soak up that delicious essence. The combination of juicy chicken and a silky sauce over rice creates a dish that feels indulgent yet is attainable for anyone cooking at home.

Another great tip is to let the chicken rest after cooking; this helps keep it moist and flavorful. As I’ve refined this recipe, I've learned that topping it with freshly chopped parsley not only adds color but also enhances the overall aromatic experience. It truly is a comfort food classic!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Decadent creamy sauce that's packed with garlic flavor
Tender chicken that stays juicy and flavorful
Easy to make yet impressive enough for guests

The Secret to a Flavorful Sauce

Creating a creamy sauce that’s rich in garlic flavor is all about timing and technique. When sautéing the garlic, aim for a golden hue rather than browning it too much, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste. About 1-2 minutes on medium heat should suffice, but keep an eye on it. Once the garlic is fragrant, adding the chicken broth for simmering allows the flavors to deepen, making the sauce robust without overwhelming the dish.

To make the sauce even more flavorful, consider incorporating a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic. Allowing it to reduce for 2-3 minutes strengthens the overall flavor profile. If you prefer a lighter version, substituting half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt will maintain the creaminess while cutting down the richness.

Tips for Juicy Chicken

For perfectly cooked chicken, it’s essential to cut even-sized strips, around 1-inch wide, to ensure uniform cooking. This allows all pieces to brown nicely without undercooking or drying out. If you find that the chicken is cooking too quickly on the outside, lower the heat and allow for a few extra minutes to allow the inside to cook fully and remain juicy.

Additionally, if you wish to boost the dish's healthfulness, opt for skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They offer a richer flavor and remain tender even when cooked slightly longer, reducing the risk of drying out compared to chicken breast. A good rule of thumb is to cook chicken thighs for about 10-12 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Serving and Storage Ideas

Serve your creamy garlic chicken over rice, but don't be afraid to get creative! Pair it with quinoa or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Adding steamed vegetables on the side, such as broccoli or asparagus, not only enhances the visual appeal but also increases nutritional value. Drizzling a bit of fresh lemon juice before serving can also elevate the dish with a zesty contrast to the creaminess.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce. This will help restore the creamy consistency and prevent drying out. For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; just be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious meal!

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
2 cups cooked rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Once you have everything ready, you're set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delightful dish.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a few minutes. Stir in the heavy cream, blending it well with the broth.

Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, allowing it to soak in the sauce for a few minutes. Serve the creamy garlic chicken over a bed of cooked rice and garnish with fresh parsley.

Your delectable meal is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for an added nutrient boost. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist.

Ingredient Substitutions

Should you find yourself short on heavy cream, you can create a semi-healthy alternative by using half-and-half mixed with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it, achieving a similar texture. Alternatively, canned coconut milk can give a unique twist, adding a slight sweetness and richness to the sauce while keeping it dairy-free.

For those looking to lower sodium intake, use low-sodium chicken broth without sacrificing flavor. You can intensify the taste with additional spices like smoked paprika or herbs such as thyme and rosemary to complement the garlic without adding extra salt.

Variations to Try

Transform the creamy garlic chicken into a mushroom version by sautéing sliced mushrooms with the garlic. This addition not only enriches the flavor but also adds an earthy depth to the dish. You can also explore the world of herbal flavors by adding fresh thyme during the sauce preparation for an aromatic touch.

If you're a fan of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the chicken as it cooks, giving the dish a delightful kick. Another option is to finish the dish with grated Parmesan cheese just before serving, blending it into the sauce for an extra layer of creamy richness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your sauce is too thick, simply add a bit more chicken broth while stirring over medium heat until reaching your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, mix equal parts of cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce, cooking briefly until thickened.

Should your chicken turn out dry, ensure you monitor the cooking time closely and consider using a meat thermometer. It’s ideal to pull it off the heat just as it hits 165°F to avoid overcooking. Letting the chicken rest briefly after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing tenderness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use less heavy cream?

Yes, you can replace some of the cream with milk or a low-fat alternative, but the sauce may be less rich.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it's best to cook and serve the chicken fresh for optimal flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.