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 chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups cooked rice; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Classic Homestyle Dishes

I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Chicken With Rice for a comforting meal that comes together in no time. This dish combines tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and creamy sauce, creating a flavor explosion that's hard to resist. The rice perfectly absorbs the rich sauce, making every bite delectable. It’s become a family favorite in my home, and it’s so satisfying to see everyone enjoy it at the dinner table. Plus, each step is simple, allowing me to focus on the flavors and enjoy the cooking process.

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-02-15T00:43:36.260Z

When I first experimented with this Creamy Garlic Chicken dish, I knew I wanted something that was both rich and soothing. By sautéing the garlic closely with the chicken, I discovered the perfect way to let the flavors meld beautifully. It transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into an extraordinary experience. Mixing in fresh herbs at the end elevates the dish to another level.

One detail I love is allowing the sauce to simmer slightly before serving. This strategy not only enhances the flavors but also thickens the sauce to just the right consistency, ensuring every grain of rice is coated with deliciousness. It's this attention to detail that makes the dish so special!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy and rich sauce that envelops each bite
Tender chicken infused with garlicky goodness
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

The Importance of Chicken Selection

Choosing the right chicken for your Creamy Garlic Chicken is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture. I recommend using high-quality, boneless chicken breasts as they remain tender and juicy when cooked correctly. If you prefer dark meat, thighs can also work well, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may need an additional 2-3 minutes to reach the same internal temperature.

Another tip is to bring your chicken to room temperature before cooking. This allows for more even cooking, reducing the chances of dry spots. For a truly flavorful experience, consider marinating your chicken in a little garlic, olive oil, and herbs for about 30 minutes prior to cooking. It adds an extra layer of depth to the final dish.

Enhancing the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce is what makes this dish stand out, so it's worth taking the time to get it right. When sautéing the garlic, be careful not to burn it, as this can impart a bitter taste to your sauce. Cook it just until fragrant, about 1 minute, and keep the heat at medium to ensure gentle cooking.

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of white wine after the garlic has sautéed. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce before adding the chicken broth. This enhances the overall richness of the sauce. Additionally, if you prefer a bit of tang, consider incorporating a tablespoon of lemon juice or zest just before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

To elevate your dining experience, serve this creamy garlic chicken alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. You might also consider presenting it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delectable sauce.

If you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain the sauce's creaminess. While freezing is possible, the texture may change upon thawing, so I recommend making this dish fresh whenever possible for the best flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

4 boneless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups cooked rice
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready to enjoy a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy garlic chicken:

Cook the Chicken

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

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Mix in the Cream

Add the heavy cream and dried thyme to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over it. Allow it to heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve the creamy garlic chicken over a bed of rice and garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your meal and indulge in the creamy flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding some sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for more flavor and nutrition.

Ingredient Substitutions

In case you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a mixture of Greek yogurt and broth for a healthier version. While it won't have the same richness, it will still provide a creamy texture. Just be sure to temper the yogurt by mixing it with a bit of the warm sauce before adding it to the skillet to prevent curdling.

For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. Use gluten-free chicken broth to make it gluten-free or replace the chicken with firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time, ensuring that the tofu is heated through and slightly golden for added texture.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're cooking for a larger group, you can easily double this recipe. Just ensure you have a large enough skillet or divide the chicken and sauce between two pans to maintain even cooking. The key to successful scaling is monitoring the cooking time; you may need to extend it slightly for larger portions.

When scaling up, keep in mind that the cream sauce might take a bit longer to thicken. If you notice it's too thin, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the sauce to help it thicken quickly. This simple trick can save you from a runny sauce.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your sauce is too thick, simply whisk in a bit more chicken broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency. It's all about achieving that velvety richness. Conversely, if the sauce ends up too thin, remember the cornstarch trick mentioned earlier to help thicken it without altering the flavor.

Another common issue can be overcooking the chicken, leading to dryness. As soon as the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), take it off the heat. Using a meat thermometer can help avoid this problem, ensuring that your chicken remains succulent and flavorful each time you prepare this dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work beautifully and will add a richer flavor.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a lower-fat cream, but it may alter the richness of the sauce.

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Absolutely! Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.

→ Is this recipe freezable?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to three months.