Easy Chicken Rice Bowls Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe – Quick & Delicious

Easy Chicken Rice Bowls Creamy Garlic Sauce is the perfect weeknight dinner solution you’ve been searching for. This delicious recipe combines simple ingredients for maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Learn how to make the best homemade Easy Chicken Rice Bowls Creamy Garlic Sauce with this easy, step-by-step guide. Perfect for beginners & packed with flavor!

Are you looking for a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights? Look no further than these Easy Chicken Rice Bowls Creamy Garlic Sauce. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy garlic sauce that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this homemade chicken and rice bowl recipe is straightforward, customizable, and absolutely delicious. The best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for those nights when you want something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love These Easy Chicken Rice Bowls Creamy Garlic Sauce

• Ready in just 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights!
• Meal prep friendly – make ahead and enjoy throughout the week
• Customizable – easily adapt with your favorite vegetables and proteins
• Budget-friendly – uses simple, affordable ingredients
• Family-approved – even picky eaters love this homemade chicken bowl
• Balanced nutrition – protein, carbs, and vegetables in one bowl
• Restaurant-quality – the creamy garlic sauce elevates this dish to gourmet status
• One-bowl meal – less cleanup and dishes to wash

Ingredients for Easy Chicken Rice Bowls Creamy Garlic Sauce

For the Chicken and Rice:

• 2 cups cooked white rice (long-grain or jasmine works best)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
• ½ cup sliced green onions for garnish

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (use cornstarch for a gluten-free option)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream (substitute coconut cream for dairy-free)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, omit for dairy-free)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

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How to Make Easy Chicken Rice Bowls Creamy Garlic Sauce – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

1. Cook rice according to package instructions or use leftover rice.
2. For extra flavor, cook your rice in chicken broth instead of water.
3. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
4. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside, keeping warm.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add your mixed vegetables (add a splash more oil if needed).
2. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
3. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Remove from skillet and set aside with the chicken.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn).
3. Sprinkle in flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.
4. Slowly pour in chicken broth while continuing to whisk to prevent lumps.
5. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2 minutes until it begins to thicken.
6. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese (if using), lemon juice, and dried thyme.
7. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

1. Divide the cooked rice among 4 serving bowls.
2. Top with cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables.
3. Generously drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over each bowl.
4. Garnish with sliced green onions.
5. Serve immediately while warm.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Chicken & Rice Bowls

• Marinate the chicken: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes or up to 4 hours before cooking.
• Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken – simply shred and warm in the skillet with the seasonings.
• Rice varieties: Try brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for different nutritional profiles.
• Sauce thickness: For a thicker sauce, use 3 tablespoons of flour; for a thinner sauce, use 1 tablespoon.
• Make ahead: Prepare components separately and assemble just before serving for meal prep throughout the week.
• Flavor boost: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for depth of flavor.
• Vegetable options: Use whatever vegetables are in season or what you have on hand – frozen vegetables work great too!
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy garlic sauce for a kick.

Best Ways to Serve Easy Chicken Rice Bowls Creamy Garlic Sauce

These Easy Chicken Rice Bowls Creamy Garlic Sauce are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

• Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping in that delicious garlic sauce
• Pair with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a complete meal
• Add a sprinkle of toasted nuts (almonds or pine nuts) for extra crunch
• Serve with lime wedges for a fresh citrus accent
• For a dinner party, set up a DIY bowl bar where guests can assemble their own bowls with different toppings
• Complement with a glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

Nutritional Information for Easy Chicken Rice Bowls Creamy Garlic Sauce

• Calories: 490 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 580mg

These values are approximate and based on using white rice and all listed ingredients. For a lower-calorie version, use cauliflower rice and light cream in the sauce.

Storage & Leftovers

These chicken and rice bowls store beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep:

• Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible for best results.
• Freezing: Freeze without the sauce for up to 3 months. The sauce can be frozen separately but may separate slightly upon thawing.
• Reheating: Microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For best results with leftovers, add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to revive the sauce.
• Make-ahead: Prepare all components up to 2 days ahead and assemble just before serving.

FAQs for Easy Chicken Rice Bowls Creamy Garlic Sauce

Can I make these chicken and rice bowls ahead of time?

Yes! These chicken and rice bowls are perfect for meal prep. Prepare all components separately and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the sauce separate and reheat separately for best results, combining just before eating.

What can I use instead of heavy cream in the garlic sauce?

For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich. For a dairy-free alternative, unsweetened coconut cream or cashew cream works beautifully to create a creamy texture while keeping the dish dairy-free.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply substitute cornstarch for the all-purpose flour in the creamy garlic sauce. Use a 1:1 ratio and ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free. Serve with certified gluten-free rice or cauliflower rice.

What vegetables work best in these bowls?

Almost any vegetables work well in these versatile bowls! Try broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus. Use what’s in season or what you have on hand. For a shortcut, frozen mixed vegetables work great too!

Related Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoy these Easy Chicken Rice Bowls Creamy Garlic Sauce, try these other delicious recipes:

• One-Pot Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
• Quick Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry Bowls
• Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa Bowls
• Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta
• 30-Minute Mexican Chicken and Rice Skillet

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve mastered the art of making Easy Chicken Rice Bowls Creamy Garlic Sauce – a versatile, delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With its perfect balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables, all brought together by that irresistible creamy garlic sauce, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.

The beauty of these chicken and rice bowls lies in their simplicity and adaptability. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables, proteins, or even grains to make this recipe your own. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or looking to impress dinner guests, these bowls deliver restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.

Have you tried making these Easy Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce? We’d love to hear your variations and see your creations! Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below, or tag us on social media. Happy cooking!

Now you know how to make the best Easy Chicken Rice Bowls Creamy Garlic Sauce at home!

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