Creamy Garlic Chicken And Rice

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless chicken breasts; 1 cup jasmine rice; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 onion, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Food Inspiration

When I first set out to make Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rice, I wanted a dish that was not only comforting but also packed with flavor. This recipe is a delightful combination of succulent chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice. Every bite is an explosion of garlic goodness that I can't resist! It's perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests. Once you try this, it might just become your go-to comfort meal, just like it did for me.

Created by

Kate Phillips

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:33:35.170Z

My obsession with garlic has always led me to seek out dishes that highlight its robust flavor. When I stumbled upon this creamy garlic chicken and rice recipe, I knew it was going to be a hit. The method of simmering the chicken in a garlic-infused cream sauce results in unbelievably tender meat that practically melts in your mouth.

I found that adding a splash of white wine elevates the dish immensely. The acidity cuts through the creaminess and adds depth that makes this honestly the best chicken and rice I've ever made. I can't wait for you to try this recipe!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, savory flavor from roasted garlic
Creamy, luscious sauce that coats each grain of rice
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

The Importance of Garlic

Garlic is the star of this dish, providing a depth of flavor that enhances the creaminess of the sauce. When you sauté the minced garlic with onions, aim for just 2-3 minutes until they are fragrant but not browned. Browning can lead to a bitter taste. The roasting of the garlic flavor becomes more pronounced in the cream sauce, giving every bite a deliciously aromatic quality that pairs wonderfully with the chicken and rice.

Feel free to adjust the garlic level according to your preference. If you are a garlic lover like me, you can even roast a whole head of garlic and mash it into the cream for a sweeter, more mellow flavor profile.

Choosing the Right Rice

For this recipe, I recommend using jasmine rice due to its delicate floral aroma and slightly sticky texture, which is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. However, if jasmine rice is unavailable, you can substitute it with basmati or long-grain rice. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly. Basmati rice generally cooks faster than jasmine, requiring about 15 minutes instead of 20.

Another key tip is to rinse the rice before adding it to the pan. Rinsing helps remove excess starch, which can make your rice gummy. Rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear, and then proceed with adding it to the sauce.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 boneless chicken breasts
1 cup jasmine rice
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
5 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 onion, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking.

Cooking Instructions

Sauté the Chicken

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the pan. Sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same pan, add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and allow it to simmer.

Cook the Rice

Add jasmine rice to the sauce, stirring well to combine. Return the chicken to the pan, cover, and simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes until the rice absorbs the sauce and is tender.

Serve

Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve hot, and enjoy your creamy, garlicky delight!

Don’t forget to adjust seasoning based on your taste.

Pro Tips

For an added layer of flavor, consider garnishing with grated Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rice holds up well in the refrigerator. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or a little cream to loosen it up as it warms.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. I recommend freezing it before adding the cream to preserve the sauce's texture, as cream can separate upon thawing. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, reheat, and stir in fresh cream.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad. The freshness will complement the richness of the creamy chicken and rice beautifully. Simple sides like roasted asparagus or garlic bread also work wonderfully.

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of the finished dish adds an extra layer of flavor and richness. You can also swap out fresh parsley for other herbs, like thyme or basil, for a different flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.

→ Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?

You can use coconut cream and a dairy-free broth as substitutes for heavy cream.

→ What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

Boneless chicken breasts work best, but you can also use thighs if you prefer dark meat.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.