Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
This comforting Chicken & Rice Bowl features tender pan-seared chicken breasts served over fluffy long-grain white rice, all smothered in a rich and creamy garlic sauce enhanced with soy sauce for a subtle umami kick. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal, this dish combines simple ingredients with straightforward cooking techniques to deliver a flavorful, hearty bowl.
- Author: Daniel
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Chicken and Rice
- 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 4–6 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- Cook the Rice: Rinse the long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the water is fully absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it rest covered.
- Pan-Sear the Chicken: While the rice cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the chicken in the hot skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until each side develops a golden brown crust and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
- Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn it. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce. Stir continuously and let the sauce simmer gently for approximately 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the sliced chicken breasts to the skillet, tossing them in the creamy garlic sauce to fully coat the pieces. Continue warming everything together for 2-3 minutes so the chicken absorbs some of the sauce flavors and is heated through.
- Assemble the Bowls: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide it evenly among serving bowls. Top the rice with the sauced chicken pieces. Optionally garnish with chopped fresh herbs or steamed vegetables for added color and texture.
Notes
- For best texture, do not lift the lid while the rice is simmering to prevent steam loss.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if preferred; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity based on your preferred saltiness level.
- Fresh garlic provides the best flavor but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Allow chicken to rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
Keywords: chicken rice bowl, creamy garlic sauce, easy weeknight dinner, pan-seared chicken, stovetop recipe