Imagine a single skillet delivering a restaurant‑quality dinner with minimal cleanup. That’s the promise of the One‑Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rice, a dish that brings together juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a luxurious garlic‑infused sauce—all cooked together in harmony.
What sets this recipe apart is the way the rice finishes cooking in the very sauce that flavors the chicken. The garlic, butter, and a splash of broth create a velvety coating that clings to every grain, while the chicken stays tender and perfectly seasoned.
This comforting meal is ideal for busy families, weeknight dinners, or a casual gathering of friends. It satisfies both picky eaters and those who crave a touch of elegance without the fuss.
The method is straightforward: sear the chicken, sauté aromatics, add rice and liquid, then let everything simmer under a lid until the rice is tender and the sauce has thickened. In under half an hour you’ll have a complete, balanced plate ready to serve.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
One‑Pan Simplicity: All components cook together, so you enjoy a full‑flavored meal without juggling multiple pots or pans, saving time and reducing cleanup.
Rich Garlic Creaminess: Fresh garlic melds with butter and broth to create a sauce that’s both comforting and sophisticated, elevating everyday ingredients.
Balanced Nutrition: Lean chicken provides protein, rice offers complex carbs, and vegetables add fiber and vitamins for a well‑rounded plate.
Customizable Flavors: Swap herbs, adjust seasoning, or add a splash of lemon to make the dish your own without compromising the core comfort.
Ingredients
The backbone of this dish is a handful of high‑quality staples that work together to create depth and comfort. Tender chicken breasts provide a neutral canvas for the garlic‑butter sauce, while long‑grain rice soaks up every drop of flavor. Fresh vegetables add texture and a pop of color, and the broth‑based sauce binds everything into a silky finish. A few simple seasonings—salt, pepper, and herbs—round out the profile, making each bite both hearty and bright.
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ lbs)
- 1 cup long‑grain white rice
- 2 cups low‑sodium chicken broth
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 cup frozen peas (or fresh if preferred)
- ½ cup finely diced carrots
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce & Seasonings
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Each ingredient plays a specific role: the butter and cream lend richness, the broth provides moisture and a savory base, and the garlic delivers its signature aromatic punch. The peas and carrots introduce sweetness and crunch, while thyme adds a subtle earthiness that balances the creamy sauce. Together they create a dish that feels indulgent yet remains wholesome.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Allow the seasoned chicken to rest for about 10 minutes at room temperature; this helps it cook evenly and retain moisture when seared.
Searing the Protein
- Heat the skillet. Place a large, heavy‑bottomed skillet over medium‑high heat for 3 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and swirl to coat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke, indicating the perfect temperature for a golden crust.
- Sear the breasts. Lay the chicken in the pan without crowding—work in batches if necessary. Cook 4‑5 minutes per side, resisting the urge to move them, until each side is deep golden brown. This step builds flavor through the Maillard reaction.
- Remove and set aside. Transfer the seared chicken to a plate and tent loosely with foil. This keeps it warm while you build the sauce and prevents it from over‑cooking.
Creating the Garlic‑Cream Base
- Sauté aromatics. Reduce heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and diced carrots. Cook 45 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned—burnt garlic becomes bitter.
- Deglaze. Pour in ½ cup chicken broth and scrape the browned bits from the pan’s bottom with a wooden spoon. Those fond pieces are flavor gold and will enrich the sauce.
- Add rice and remaining liquid. Stir in the uncooked rice, ensuring each grain is coated. Then add the remaining 1½ cups chicken broth and the frozen peas. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate cream. Swirl in ¼ cup heavy cream for a velvety texture. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let everything cook for 15‑18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Finishing the Dish
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the rice. Spoon a generous amount of sauce over each piece. Cover and let the pan sit for an additional 5 minutes; this allows the chicken to finish cooking gently and the flavors to meld. Before serving, give the dish a final stir, taste for seasoning, and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional thyme.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
Room‑temperature chicken. Let the breasts sit out for 10‑15 minutes before searing; this ensures even cooking and prevents a cold center.
Use a tight‑fitting lid. A good seal traps steam, allowing the rice to cook uniformly without drying out.
Don’t rush the simmer. Keep the heat low once the broth is added; a gentle simmer prevents the rice from becoming mushy.
Rest before serving. Let the skillet sit covered for 5 minutes after cooking so the juices redistribute throughout the chicken.
Flavor Enhancements
Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness, or stir in a pinch of smoked paprika for subtle depth. A tablespoon of grated Parmesan melted into the sauce adds umami richness without overpowering the garlic.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid lifting the lid too often; each opening releases steam needed for the rice to cook properly. Also, don’t add the rice before the broth is simmering—cold liquid slows absorption and can lead to uneven texture.
Pro Tips
Choose a heavy skillet. Cast iron or stainless steel distributes heat evenly, giving the chicken a consistent crust.
Measure broth accurately. Too much liquid makes the rice soggy; too little leaves it undercooked. Use a liquid measuring cup for precision.
Finish with fresh herbs. Adding parsley or chives at the end preserves their color and fresh flavor.
Use low‑sodium broth. This gives you control over the salt level and prevents the dish from becoming overly salty.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
Replace chicken with turkey cutlets, pork tenderloin, or firm tofu for a vegetarian spin. Swap peas for edamame, corn, or chopped spinach. For a different grain, try using quinoa or brown rice—just adjust the liquid ratio accordingly.
Dietary Adjustments
Make the dish gluten‑free by confirming the broth is certified gluten‑free. For dairy‑free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or oat cream and use a plant‑based butter. To keep it keto, replace the rice with cauliflower rice and use a low‑carb sweetener instead of honey if you add a touch of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the creamy chicken and rice alongside a crisp cucumber‑mint salad for contrast, or pair with roasted asparagus for extra green goodness. A slice of warm, crusty sourdough bread is perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce.
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
Allow the dish to cool to room temperature (no more than two hours), then transfer it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer keeping, portion into freezer‑safe bags, squeeze out excess air, and freeze for up to three months.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat gently in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for 15‑20 minutes until the interior reaches 165°F. On the stovetop, add a splash of broth or milk, cover, and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. Microwaving works for single servings—heat 1‑minute intervals, stirring between, until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
This One‑Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rice delivers restaurant‑level flavor with a fraction of the effort. By following the detailed steps, using the tips, and adapting the variations, you’ll master a versatile, comforting dish that fits any schedule. Feel free to experiment with herbs, proteins, or grains—cooking is an adventure, and this recipe is a perfect canvas. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!
