Creamy Garlic Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long-grain rice; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Meals

I love making Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rice, especially on busy weeknights when comfort food is my priority. The atmosphere in my kitchen transforms as the aroma of garlic fills the air, promising a satisfying meal ahead. Using creamy ingredients and perfectly cooked rice, this dish has become a staple in my home. Not only is it delicious, but it's also easy to whip up, making it perfect for both family dinners and impressing guests. Trust me, this recipe will quickly win a special place in your heart too!

Created by

Theodora Blythe

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:37:36.429Z

The first time I made Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rice, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without compromising on flavor. The secret lies in sautéing garlic just until golden before adding the chicken, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. I've learned that using high-quality chicken broth and fresh herbs can take this dish to a whole new level. It's a simple trick that always enhances the overall taste!

Getting the rice creamy is just as important, and I've found that stirring in cheese at the last moment gives it that rich, velvety texture. This dish has become a family favorite, and I often customize it with seasonal vegetables for an extra nutritional boost. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Luscious creamy sauce that clings to every bite
Garlic-infused flavor that elevates your dining experience
A one-pot meal that simplifies cleanup while delivering delightful taste

      

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

The beauty of this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rice lies in its rich, velvety sauce. To achieve the perfect creamy consistency, it's crucial to make sure that the heavy cream is added after the rice has absorbed most of the chicken broth. This not only ensures that the rice is thoroughly cooked but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a cohesive dish. Stirring in the Parmesan cheese off the heat prevents it from clumping and ensures a smooth and glossy finish.

If you're looking for a lighter alternative, consider substituting half and half for the heavy cream. While this will reduce the creaminess, it still adds enough richness to the dish. Additionally, using freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded cheese can elevate the flavor while providing a creamier texture when melted. Another tip is to reserve a bit of pasta cooking water to add if the mixture feels too thick. This can help maintain the perfect saucy consistency.

Choosing the Right Rice

When it comes to making creamy rice dishes, the type of rice you choose can significantly impact the texture and final result. Long-grain rice is ideal for this recipe as it remains fluffy and does not clump together. However, if you prefer a creamier texture, you can substitute with Arborio rice, commonly used for risottos. Arborio rice releases more starch during cooking, resulting in a thicker, creamier consistency that pairs wonderfully with the garlic sauce and chicken flavors.

Always rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch, which can lead to overly sticky rice. A quick rinse under cool water until the water runs clear will help ensure that each grain remains separable and fluffy. If you choose to double this recipe for larger gatherings, keep in mind that rice generally cooks in the same amount of time, but ensure your pan is large enough to accommodate the increased volume without crowding.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This dish is excellent for meal prep or leftovers. If you have any chicken and rice remaining, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating can sometimes alter the creaminess, so consider adding a splash of additional chicken broth or a bit of cream while reheating on the stovetop. This will help restore the sauce’s desired consistency and prevent it from drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. It keeps well in the freezer for up to three months. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then package it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stove on low heat, adding a little cream or broth as needed to maintain its creamy texture. This is a great way to have a comforting meal ready at a moment's notice!

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain rice
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning as needed for the perfect flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to ensure a delicious outcome!

Cook the Chicken

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

Sauté Garic

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.

Prepare the Rice

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add the rice and stir well. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed.

Make it Creamy

Once the rice is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until creamy and smooth.

Combine and Serve

Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, mixing it with the creamy rice. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious meal! Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete experience.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the dish or using different kinds of cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rice with a crisp green salad is a fantastic way to balance the richness of the dish. A light vinaigrette or lemon-dressed salad complements the garlic flavors beautifully without overpowering the palate. Another excellent side is steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, adding a pop of color and additional nutrition to your meal.

For a bit of flair, consider garnishing with lemon zest or extra shaved Parmesan cheese. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a bright note that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. Additionally, serve with crusty bread to scoop up any remaining sauce, ensuring no delicious flavor is left behind!

Variations and Customization

Feel free to customize the recipe based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions. If you're looking to add some vegetables, consider incorporating spinach or sun-dried tomatoes during the cream phase; this will not only pump up the nutritional content but add vibrant color and an extra layer of flavor. Mushrooms sautéed alongside the garlic can also provide an earthy depth that pairs well with the creaminess of the dish.

For a kick of heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne pepper while cooking to give the dish a spicy twist. Alternatively, if you're cooking for a crowd with varied tastes, you can serve the creamy chicken and rice base separately from the chicken, allowing guests to decide how much they want. This way, more adventurous eaters and those who prefer milder flavors can each enjoy their meal in a way that suits their palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative if you're looking for a lighter option.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and rice separately and combine them before serving.

→ What other proteins can I use?

Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist on this recipe.