Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken And Rice Skillet

Name: Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken And Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Corner

I can’t get enough of this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Skillet! It’s one of those cozy, one-pan meals that makes dinner feel special without any fuss. The combination of tender chicken, creamy garlic sauce, and fluffy rice creates a comforting experience that absolutely delights. Plus, with everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when I want something satisfying yet quick. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that has become a family favorite.

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-27T21:09:36.169Z

When I first made this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Skillet, I hadn’t expected it to become a staple in our home. The buttery garlic sauce enveloped the chicken perfectly, creating a flavor bomb that I couldn’t resist. My secret? Using fresh garlic instead of powdered for that vibrant kick. Not only does it brighten the dish, but it also enhances the overall aroma.

Since then, I've played with different herbs and spices, and I've found that adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley just before serving elevates the dish beautifully. Other things I've tried include different types of rice, which all bring a unique texture and flavor. Trust me, it's worth experimenting!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that clings to every grain of rice
One-pan meal makes cooking and cleanup effortless
Perfect balance of garlic flavor without being overpowering

Getting the Chicken Just Right

To achieve perfectly cooked chicken, it's essential to maintain the right temperature. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat and let the olive oil get hot before adding the chicken. This helps create a golden crust while locking in the juices. If you find that the chicken starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly to avoid burning. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe and juicy chicken.

After cooking the chicken, let it rest outside the skillet for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, preventing dryness when you incorporate it back into the dish. A sharp knife works best for slicing, creating uniform pieces that blend seamlessly with the rice and sauce.

Perfecting the Garlic Butter Sauce

The garlic butter sauce is the heart of this recipe, providing rich, comforting flavors. When sautéing the garlic, watch for signs of doneness; it should turn fragrant and slightly golden without burning. If the garlic darkens too quickly, reduce the heat to avoid that bitter taste. Fresh garlic will deliver the best flavor, but if you find yourself with garlic powder, you can use about 1 teaspoon instead for a milder experience.

Incorporating heavy cream adds a luxurious texture to the sauce. To whip up a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or a non-dairy creamer. Keep in mind that the consistency may vary, so always taste and adjust the seasoning. If the sauce seems too thick after adding the cream, a splash more chicken broth can help achieve the desired creamy consistency.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Prepare the Rice

Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat the grains in garlic butter. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the broth.

Combine and Finish

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet. Gently mix to combine and heat through. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in garlic, lemon juice, and herbs for an hour before cooking. This adds a delicious zest to the dish.

Variations and Add-Ons

Feel free to experiment with vegetables by adding them during the rice cooking stage. Peas, spinach, or bell peppers can introduce freshness and nutrition. Simply toss them in with the rice and broth, adjusting cooking time if needed to ensure everything is tender yet vibrant. This not only enhances the dish but also adds color and texture.

If you're in the mood for something different, think about swapping in different proteins like shrimp or tofu. Make sure you adjust cooking times accordingly; shrimp cooks quickly, usually within 3-4 minutes, while tofu should be well-browned before adding to the skillet.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Skillet makes for fantastic leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating gently in a skillet over low heat can help maintain the creamy texture without overcooking the rice.

To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely. Transfer to freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to three months. I find it helpful to portion out servings before freezing—just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed for quick meals that still pack flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but the cooking time will increase. Make sure to follow the package instructions for brown rice.

→ Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely. You can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

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

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.