Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Are you in the mood for a delicious and comforting meal? Look no further than Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce! This dish brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy garlic sauce that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe combines simplicity and flavor in every bite.

Why Make This Recipe?

There are several reasons to try this Chicken & Rice Bowl recipe. First and foremost, it is incredibly flavorful. The creamy garlic sauce brings a delightful richness that perfectly complements the juicy chicken. Additionally, the dish is versatile; you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or side dishes. It also comes together quickly, making it a fantastic option for busy families. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser — everyone loves a hearty chicken and rice meal!

How to Make Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Let’s dive into how to prepare this mouthwatering dish. It’s simple and straightforward, making it perfect for cooks of all levels.

Ingredients

3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain white rice
4–6 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

Prepare the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine the rice with 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then cover and reduce heat. Simmer for 18–20 minutes. Once done, turn off the heat and let it sit covered.
Cook the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and season them with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6–7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Stir in the soy sauce and heavy cream and allow to simmer for 4–5 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
Combine and Serve: Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, allowing it to soak in the creamy sauce. Serve the chicken over the prepared rice. For an added touch, you can garnish with fresh herbs or steamed veggies.

How to Serve Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

To present your Chicken & Rice Bowls, spoon a generous amount of rice into a bowl, top with sliced chicken, and drizzle over the creamy garlic sauce. You can enhance the dish with freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, or serve it alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How to Store Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will remain fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Tips to Make Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Cooking Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for optimal safety.
Garlic Flavor: For a stronger garlic flavor, feel free to add more minced garlic to the sauce.
Rinse Rice: Rinsing the rice helps remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier rice.

Variations

Feel free to customize this dish to your liking! Here are a few ideas:

Add Vegetables: Include vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to add color and flavor.
Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but remember to adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.
Is there a dairy-free option for the sauce?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative to make it dairy-free.
Can I freeze Chicken & Rice Bowls?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the rice. Reheat thoroughly after thawing.

Now that you have all the details, you’re ready to whip up your own Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce. Enjoy this delightful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!