Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

When the weather starts to cool and the evening sun dips early behind the trees, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting meal to bring the family together. That’s exactly what these Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce offer—a simple, satisfying dish that feels like a big warm hug at the end of the day.

I first stumbled upon a similar meal during a quiet autumn dinner at a friend’s house. It was one of those meals where no one said much—not because of awkward silence, but because we were all too busy savoring every bite. There was something so cozy about the steamy bowl of fluffy rice topped with slices of juicy chicken and draped in a creamy, garlicky sauce that was both indulgent and soul-soothing.

This dish has since become a staple in my home. It’s quick enough for weeknights, yet hearty enough to serve on a Sunday. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a satisfying homemade dinner, these chicken and rice bowls never disappoint. The creamy garlic sauce alone is worth keeping in your recipe arsenal—it’s that good.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Weeknight-Friendly: Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy evenings.
• Customizable: Add veggies, change the rice, or swap the chicken for another protein.
• Comfort Food Appeal: Creamy garlic sauce makes it feel special and indulgent.
• Great for Leftovers: Store and reheat easily for lunch the next day.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 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

HOW TO MAKE Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Start with the Rice
Rinse your rice until the water runs clear—this helps remove excess starch and gives you fluffier grains. In a saucepan, add the rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 18–20 minutes. Turn off the heat and let it rest while covered.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While your rice simmers, pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook 6–7 minutes per side, until golden on the outside and cooked through. Remove and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Using the same skillet (don’t wipe it out—those bits at the bottom are flavor gold), lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the soy sauce and heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a rich sauce.

Step 4: Combine and Serve
Slice the chicken and return it to the pan to soak up that creamy garlic goodness. Serve generous spoonfuls over your prepared rice. The sauce will soak into the rice, making every bite warm and flavorful. Garnish with chopped parsley, steamed veggies, or a dash of black pepper if desired.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Slice Against the Grain: For tender chicken, always slice against the grain.
• Low-Sodium Options: Choose low-sodium soy sauce and adjust seasoning at the end.
• Add Veggies: Sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli, or sugar snap peas make excellent add-ins.
• Dairy-Free Sub: Use coconut cream or unsweetened almond cooking cream for a dairy-free version.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Fusion / American
• Diet: Halal-Friendly

NOTES:

• Don’t overcook the garlic—burned garlic will make the sauce bitter.
• If your sauce gets too thick, thin it with a splash of milk or broth.
• Rice can be substituted with brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (Per Serving):

• Calories: 580
• Protein: 36g
• Carbs: 52g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What is a chicken & rice bowl with garlic sauce?
A chicken and rice bowl with garlic sauce features juicy, seasoned chicken over fluffy rice, topped with a rich, creamy garlic sauce. The sauce adds a savory depth and velvety texture, making each bite irresistible. It’s a satisfying, quick meal that feels comforting and indulgent while still being easy to prepare for lunch or dinner.

How do you make chicken & rice bowls?
To make chicken and rice bowls, cook long-grain rice in water or chicken broth until tender. Sear seasoned chicken until golden and fully cooked. For the garlic sauce, blend mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Assemble by layering rice, sliced chicken, and a generous drizzle of the creamy garlic sauce. Garnish with herbs if desired.

How do you make grilled chicken fried rice?
Start by grilling your chicken until it’s nicely charred and cooked through. In a wok or skillet, stir-fry cooked rice with vegetables, garlic, and a splash of soy sauce. Add chopped grilled chicken and stir until everything is heated through. Finish with a drizzle of garlic-mayo sauce for an extra creamy, flavorful touch.

What to eat with chicken & rice?
Great sides for chicken and rice include steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots for a fresh, crunchy contrast. A crisp green salad or roasted sweet potatoes also pair well. For something hearty, try garlic bread or warm pita to soak up any extra sauce. These options round out the meal perfectly.

How do you make rice sauce?
To make a creamy rice sauce, melt butter in a pan, then sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in mayonnaise or cream with a splash of lemon juice and season to taste. Simmer briefly until thickened. This simple garlic sauce is perfect for spooning over rice and chicken, adding richness and flavor.

How much rice do you put in a rice bowl?
Typically, 1 cup of cooked rice per serving is ideal for a rice bowl. This base amount holds toppings well and absorbs sauces beautifully. For heartier appetites, 1½ cups can be used. Whether using plain rice or one simmered in broth, the key is to keep it fluffy and well-seasoned.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze components separately for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.

RELATED RECIPES:

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
• Mediterranean Lemon Dill Chicken Bowls
• Cajun Sweet Potato Rice Bowl
• Sweet Potato and Black Bean Bowls with Avocado Lime Dressing

CONCLUSION:

There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of chicken and rice, especially when it’s blanketed in a rich, savory garlic sauce. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table without fuss, a go-to favorite for both quiet nights and casual entertaining. Keep this Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce recipe close—you’ll be turning to it again and again.

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