Imagine the ultimate comfort food in a bowl: tender chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant broccoli, and a lusciously smooth, garlicky sauce enveloping it all. Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are the kind of meal you’ll want on your weeknight rotation—simple to pull off, endlessly satisfying, and equally perfect for casual family dinners or impressing friends. Each bite layers together savory flavors and irresistible textures for a dish that feels both nourishing and luxurious.

Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features a handful of familiar ingredients that each bring something special to the table—from the deep flavor of smoked paprika to the creaminess of Parmesan. Don’t skip any, as they all work together to make Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce truly shine!

Chicken breasts: Go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts—they cook up juicy and slice beautifully for these bowls.
Long-grain white rice: The perfect fluffy, neutral base to absorb all that amazing sauce.
Chicken broth: Use broth instead of water when cooking the rice for an instant flavor boost.
Olive oil: Just a touch gives the chicken a gorgeous golden sear.
Smoked paprika: Adds a gentle smokiness and a pop of color to the chicken.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t forget to taste as you go!
Butter: Sautéing garlic in butter makes the sauce super rich and flavorful.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is the star of the creamy sauce—don’t skimp!
Heavy cream: The base for that dreamy, silky sauce you’ll want to pour over everything.
Parmesan cheese: Adds depth, saltiness, and helps the sauce thicken up nicely.
Broccoli florets: They steam right in the sauce, keeping them bright and tender.
Lemon juice: Just a squeeze finishes the sauce with a fresh, tangy lift.
Green onions: Chopped and sprinkled on top, they add freshness and crunch.
Red pepper flakes: Totally optional, but a tiny pinch brings a lively touch of heat.

How to Make Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Rinse the long-grain white rice thoroughly under cold water until it runs clear. This step removes excess starch, guaranteeing individual fluffy grains (no mushy rice here!). Combine the rice and chicken broth in a pot, bring it to a boil, then cover and simmer until the rice is just tender and all the broth has been absorbed. Let it rest off the heat, covered—this helps finish the cooking and makes the grains even fluffier.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

While the rice is cooking, generously season your chicken breasts with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. The paprika not only adds a gentle smokiness but also gorgeous color. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken on both sides—about 6 to 7 minutes per side—until cooked through with a lovely golden crust. Give each breast a 5-minute rest before slicing; this helps the juices redistribute so every piece stays moist.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce

After removing the chicken from the skillet, keep those flavorful browned bits—they’re gold! Melt the butter in the same pan, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté briefly until it smells divine (about a minute). Pour in the heavy cream, allowing it to come to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan until it fully melts. The cheese helps thicken the sauce and adds tons of flavor. Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets directly to the sauce, cover the skillet, and let them steam for about 5 minutes. The broccoli should be crisp-tender and beautifully green, soaking up a bit of that garlic sauce as it cooks. This step makes it easy—no extra pan required!

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Now comes the fun part. Fluff the cooked rice and divide it among your serving bowls. Top each with plenty of sliced chicken, and then ladle that luscious creamy garlic sauce and broccoli right over everything. You’ll see just how inviting Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce look when assembled—the colors and aromas are irresistible.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

Scatter chopped green onions over each bowl for crunch and freshness. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes takes these bowls to the next level. Now you’re ready to dig in and savor every creamy, garlicky bite!

How to Serve Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

The right toppings create a beautiful presentation and layer on extra flavor. Chopped green onions give each bite a pop of brightness, while a sprinkle of red pepper flakes brings gentle heat and eye-catching color. Don’t hesitate to add extra Parmesan for an even cheesier vibe!

Side Dishes

These bowls are hearty enough to stand alone, but they pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or a light cucumber-tomato salad for added freshness. Warm pita or garlic bread on the side is also fantastic for sopping up every last bit of that creamy garlic sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce in shallow pasta bowls for an elegant touch, or try layering the components in wide mason jars for a portable lunch. For family-style dining, let everyone build their own bowl with a toppings bar, adding extra fun to weeknight dinners!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store the rice, chicken, and sauce/broccoli in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps keep the rice fluffy and the sauce creamy for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce freeze surprisingly well! Let everything cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. The creamy sauce may separate a bit when thawed, but a good stir while reheating brings it back to life. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the rice, chicken, and sauce separately. Warm the chicken and rice in the microwave or a skillet with a splash of broth or water to help keep them moist. Warm the sauce gently in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth and hot, then combine and serve.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and rich flavor. Adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs may be slightly thicker or have bones.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

Half-and-half works in a pinch, though the sauce will be a bit lighter. You can also try full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free twist—it pairs surprisingly well with garlic!

Can I add more veggies?

Go for it! Bell peppers, spinach, or snap peas make great additions. Just toss them in with the broccoli or sauté briefly before combining with the sauce.

Is this recipe gluten free?

Yes, Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are completely gluten free—just double-check your chicken broth and Parmesan for any hidden gluten if you’re very sensitive.

How can I make it spicier?

A bit more red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce in the creamy garlic sauce, or even a diced jalapeño in the rice will give this dish a delicious kick—customize to your taste!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for your next crave-worthy, crowd-pleasing meal, it’s time to give Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce a try. They’re as easy as they are impressive, with flavors you’ll come back to again and again. Gather your ingredients, invite someone you love, and make dinner a celebration!