Creamy Garlic Chicken With Rice

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken With Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in chicken thighs; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups water; Salt to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Soulful Meals

I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Chicken With Rice for my family on busy weeknights. The rich, comforting flavors come together so easily that I can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time. There's something incredibly satisfying about the creamy garlic sauce that perfectly coats the tender chicken and fluffy rice, making it a dish everyone enjoys. It's become one of our go-to recipes because it strikes the right balance between indulgent and simple, turning a hectic day into a delightful dining experience.

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-02-10T20:17:37.217Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such a rich flavor. Using fresh garlic instead of pre-minced makes a huge difference in taste, giving the dish a vibrant freshness that pairs beautifully with the creaminess. I recommend sautéing the garlic just until fragrant; overcooking it can make the dish bitter.

One key to making this meal a hit is to use bone-in chicken thighs. They stay juicier than chicken breasts and soak up the creamy sauce perfectly. I love serving this dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness, elevating the entire experience.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy, rich garlic sauce that enhances the dish's flavor
Easy one-pan meal for quick weeknight dinners
Comfort food that's perfect for family gatherings

Understanding the Sauce

The creamy garlic sauce in this recipe is what truly elevates the dish. The heavy cream acts as a rich base, providing a velvety texture, while the Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that complements the garlic. Together, they create a sauce that's not only flavorful but also has a luscious consistency that clings beautifully to the chicken and rice. To achieve the perfect balance, be sure to simmer the sauce long enough—approximately 5 minutes is ideal—to thicken it without boiling, which could cause it to separate.

To really explode the flavor, consider infusing the sauce with additional herbs. Fresh thyme would work beautifully, but you could also use rosemary or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Just remember that a little goes a long way; start with a small amount and taste as you go to create a sauce that suits your palate without overwhelming the dish's overall flavor profile.

Perfecting the Rice

Cooking jasmine rice might seem straightforward, but ensuring it reaches the perfect fluffiness is crucial for a great dining experience. After boiling the rice, reducing the heat is key; keep it at a very low simmer to allow the steam to cook the rice evenly. Adjust the salt to your preference, but be cautious not to over-salt, as this can overpower the delicate flavor of the rice and the creamy sauce. The desired result is fluffy grains, each separate from one another, contributing texture to your plate.

If you have leftovers or wish to make-ahead, jasmine rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, sprinkle a bit of water over the rice and cover it while warming, whether in the microwave or on the stovetop, to prevent it from drying out. This helps maintain that fluffy texture and ensures the rice is just as enjoyable when served again.

Serving Suggestions

While this dish is fantastic on its own, adding a side of sautéed greens, such as spinach or green beans, can bring a fresh contrast to the creamy garlic chicken. Their bright flavors and slight crunch provide a refreshing balance to the rich sauce, complementing the comforting nature of the meal. I often sauté veggies in the same skillet after the chicken to save on washing up, adding a bit of chicken broth to deglaze any flavorful bits stuck in the pan.

For more variation, consider switching out the rice entirely for a quinoa or cauliflower rice base. Both alternatives will absorb the sauce beautifully while adding their unique textures and flavors. If you're looking for a twist, top the dish with toasted pine nuts or crispy fried onions for added crunch—these small details can transform a comforting meal into something a bit more special without extra effort.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken with Rice:

For the Chicken

4 bone-in chicken thighs
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme

For the Rice

1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups water
Salt to taste

For Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect creamy garlic chicken:

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 cup of jasmine rice and salt to taste. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.

Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken thighs, skin-side down, for about 5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce

Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, cooking in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to heat through. Serve the creamy garlic chicken over rice, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the dish.

Ingredient Variations

Swapping the chicken thighs for chicken breasts is an easy way to reduce fat, but be cautious about overcooking. Boneless chicken breasts, in particular, can dry out quickly, so consider adjusting the cooking time and monitoring them closely. A meat thermometer will help ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, remaining juicy while still delivering delicious flavor from the garlic sauce.

For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with hearty vegetables such as mushrooms or eggplant. These ingredients absorb the creamy sauce exceptionally well and provide a satisfying texture. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose; softer veggies will require less time in the skillet.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers of this creamy garlic chicken and rice, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the dish on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce and prevent sticking. This will help maintain the creaminess and avoid separation, ensuring a delightful dining experience upon reheating.

For longer storage, this dish freezes well, especially the creamy sauce. Portion the chicken and rice into freezer-safe containers. When reheating from frozen, allow a longer time on low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method not only preserves the meal but allows you to enjoy a comforting chicken dinner any night of the week with minimal effort.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but keep in mind that chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Steamed vegetables or a green salad make excellent sides.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and combine with freshly cooked rice when ready to serve.

→ Is it freezer-friendly?

Yes, the chicken and sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat and serve over freshly cooked rice.