Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken And Rice Skillet

Name: Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken And Rice Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper, to taste; Chopped parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Meals

I absolutely adore this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Skillet recipe! It combines tender chicken, rich garlic flavors, and creamy goodness, all cooked in one skillet for a hassle-free meal. This dish has quickly become a family favorite, thanks to its comforting vibe and simplicity. I love how the buttery sauce clings to the rice, creating layers of flavor with every bite. If you're looking for an easy weeknight dinner that's both delicious and satisfying, this recipe will not disappoint!

Created by

Belinda Fraser

Last updated on 2026-02-28T08:37:35.045Z

When I first tried making this dish, I was amazed at how quickly the flavors meld together. The combination of garlic, chicken, and butter creates an irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen. By adding the rice directly into the skillet, I discovered that it absorbs all the amazing juices, making every grain flavorful and delicious.

A tip that really helped me was to let the chicken brown slightly before adding the liquid. This not only enhances the color but also deepens the flavor profile of the entire dish. Trust me, it makes a difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy garlic sauce that tantalizes your taste buds
One-skillet preparation for easy cleanup
Comforting dish perfect for any night of the week

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

The creamy garlic sauce is the star of this dish, providing both flavor and richness. To achieve the perfect consistency, it's important to allow the heavy cream to simmer gently after being added. Keep the heat low to prevent boiling, which can cause the cream to separate. Stir frequently until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, usually around 5 to 10 minutes. If it seems too thick, you can adjust by adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.

For enhancing the garlic flavor, consider using roasted garlic instead of raw. Roasted garlic has a sweeter, more mellow taste that can elevate the dish. Simply roast whole garlic cloves in their skins at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-40 minutes until soft, then mash and stir into the cream. This addition will deepen the flavor profile, making each bite even more delightful.

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or oat milk. Just be aware that this may alter the creaminess slightly. The chicken can also be swapped out for turkey, or for a vegetarian option, use chickpeas or mushrooms, which provide a similar texture and absorb the creamy flavor well.

Feel free to incorporate vegetables for added nutrition and color. Peas, spinach, or bell peppers are excellent choices that can be added along with the rice. A handful of spinach can simply be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking to wilt, while bell peppers can be sautéed with the chicken for a sweet crunch.

Storing and Reheating

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. When storing, make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. If you find the sauce thickened too much upon refrigeration, you can easily reinvigorate it while reheating by adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to return the creaminess.

For freezing, I recommend separating the chicken and rice into portions. Place in freezer-safe containers, and it should be good for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm up in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating without burning.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice

2 tablespoons butter
1 pound chicken breast, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season it with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine Rice and Broth

Add the rice to the skillet, stirring well to coat it with the butter and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Stir in Cream

Once the rice is cooked, reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer until creamy, about 5 - 10 minutes.

Garnish and Serve

Finish with fresh parsley for garnish and serve hot!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider tossing in sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. They not only enhance the dish with color but also nutritional value.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette works particularly well, as the acidity cuts through the creaminess of the chicken and rice. Don't forget to keep some crusty bread on the side for scooping up any remaining sauce!

For a more gourmet touch, you might top the skillet with grated Parmesan cheese right before serving. As the cheese melts into the creamy sauce, it creates an extra layer of flavor while enhancing the overall texture. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a delightful kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your rice isn’t cooking properly and feels underdone, check whether you've added enough liquid and whether it has had sufficient time to simmer. The chicken broth should fully cover the rice to allow it to absorb the moisture. If you find that it’s drying out, add a bit more broth or water while cooking and cover the skillet to keep the steam in.

In case the sauce isn't as creamy as you'd like, you can whisk in a little cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it along with the cream. Be sure to stir constantly to avoid lumps. If you accidentally over-salted, adding a small pinch of sugar can help balance out the flavors, making the dish pleasantly savory without overpowering the garlic and butter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to increase the cooking time and add more liquid as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Just add a splash of water or cream to prevent it from drying out.

→ Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute the butter with olive oil and the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative.

→ What should I serve with this dish?

This dish is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.