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Creamy Garlic Chicken Bowls Recipe

Creamy Garlic Chicken Bowls Recipe

5.2 from 5 reviews

Creamy Garlic Chicken Bowls feature tender, seasoned chicken breasts cooked in a rich, creamy garlic and Parmesan sauce, served over fluffy rice with steamed broccoli and fresh cherry tomatoes. This comforting and flavorful one-bowl meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet balanced.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

To Serve

  • 4 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
  • 1 cup sliced cherry tomatoes
  • Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss well to evenly coat the chicken pieces.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned on all sides with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Simmer the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Allow it to reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes, intensifying the flavors.
  5. Add Cream and Thicken: Lower the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let it gently simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally and avoiding boiling.
  6. Melt in Cheese & Spices: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if using. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is velvety smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat all pieces evenly with the creamy garlic sauce. Let it simmer together for a few minutes to meld the flavors and heat through.
  8. Finish with Parsley: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
  9. Assemble the Bowls: Evenly divide the cooked rice among four serving bowls.
  10. Add Chicken: Spoon a generous portion of creamy garlic chicken atop the rice in each bowl.
  11. Add Vegetables: Arrange steamed broccoli florets and sliced cherry tomatoes around the chicken in each bowl for color and nutrition.
  12. Garnish and Serve: Garnish each bowl with additional fresh parsley and serve immediately.
  13. Optional: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the bowls for added brightness.

Notes

  • You can use white, brown, or cauliflower rice depending on your dietary preferences.
  • The red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice subtle heat to the sauce.
  • Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less thick.
  • Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken to achieve a nice sear.
  • Leftover chicken and sauce can be refrigerated separately and reheated gently on the stovetop.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy garlic chicken, garlic chicken bowls, chicken dinner recipe, creamy chicken sauce, weeknight chicken bowl