Few meals are as satisfying and comforting as chicken & rice bowls with creamy garlic sauce. The combination of tender, juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, garlicky sauce makes this dish a perfect weeknight dinner or meal prep option. Whether you’re craving something hearty or looking for a delicious way to upgrade your rice bowl game, this recipe has got you covered.

Imagine biting into perfectly seasoned chicken, paired with warm rice and coated in a buttery, garlicky Parmesan sauce. Every spoonful is packed with flavor, and the best part? It’s quick, easy, and made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen!

Let’s dive into this irresistible chicken and rice bowl recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
✔️ Rich & Creamy – The garlic Parmesan sauce is ultra-indulgent.
✔️ Protein-Packed – A wholesome, balanced meal.
✔️ Perfect for Meal Prep – Store leftovers for a stress-free lunch.
✔️ Customizable – Add veggies, different seasonings, or swap proteins.

Ingredients for Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Here’s everything you need to create this delicious and creamy rice bowl.

Chicken & Rice

Ingredient	Amount
Chicken breast, cubed	500g
Olive oil	1 tbsp
Paprika	1 tsp
Salt	½ tsp
Black pepper	½ tsp
Cooked rice	2 cups

Creamy Garlic Sauce

Ingredient	Amount
Butter	2 tbsp
Garlic cloves, minced	3
Heavy cream	1 cup
Parmesan cheese, grated	¼ cup

How to Make Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized cubes.
In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over low heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and stir well.
Add Parmesan cheese and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cooked rice between serving bowls.
Top with the cooked chicken.
Pour the creamy garlic sauce generously over the chicken and rice.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips for the Best Chicken & Rice Bowls

Choose the Right Chicken

For juicier chicken, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They have more flavor and stay tender when cooked.

Enhance the Sauce

For extra richness, stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Make It a Complete Meal

Add some roasted broccoli, sautéed spinach, or bell peppers to pack in extra nutrients and flavors.

Perfect Rice Every Time

Use long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati for a light, fluffy texture. If using brown rice, increase the cooking time.

Flavor Variations

Spicy Garlic Chicken & Rice

Add ½ teaspoon of chili flakes to the sauce for heat.
Drizzle with Sriracha or hot honey before serving.

Lemon Herb Chicken & Rice

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving.
Add fresh thyme or basil for a Mediterranean twist.

Cheesy Garlic Rice Bowl

Stir in ½ cup of shredded mozzarella into the sauce for extra cheesiness.

Low-Carb Version

Swap the rice for cauliflower rice or quinoa to reduce carbs while keeping it just as delicious.

What to Serve with Chicken & Rice Bowls

✔️ Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
✔️ Grilled Vegetables – Zucchini, asparagus, or mushrooms work great.
✔️ Fresh Salad – A light side like cucumber tomato salad balances the richness.
✔️ Soup – A warm bowl of tomato or mushroom soup pairs well with this dish.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	520
Protein	45g
Carbs	38g
Fat	21g
Fiber	2g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! If using rotisserie or leftover chicken, simply heat it in the sauce before serving.

2. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat.

3. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store chicken, rice, and sauce separately in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps everything fresh and prevents the rice from getting soggy.

4. Can I freeze this meal?

Yes! Freeze chicken and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

5. How do I thicken the garlic sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, simmer for a few more minutes or add ½ teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

6. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Now that you know how to make chicken & rice bowls with creamy garlic sauce, it’s time to put this recipe to the test! Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.