There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm, home-cooked meal after a long day. Creamy Garlic Chicken over Buttered Rice & Roasted Broccoli is the ultimate weeknight comfort food, combining juicy, golden chicken with a rich garlic cream sauce, fluffy buttered rice, and tender roasted broccoli. This dish brings together flavors that feel indulgent yet simple enough to prepare on any evening.
Inspired by classic Southern-style comfort food, this recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal. The creamy garlic sauce envelops every bite of chicken, making it deeply satisfying, while the buttered rice adds a cozy base and the roasted broccoli provides a crisp, nutritious contrast. Perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even a solo indulgent night at home, this recipe is designed to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen. By the end of the meal, your kitchen will smell heavenly, and everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Sauce:
-
1 lb chicken breasts or thighs
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
3 tbsp butter
-
4 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
½ cup chicken broth
-
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
-
Salt & black pepper, to taste
-
Fresh parsley, for garnish
For the Buttered Rice:
-
1 cup long-grain white rice
-
2 cups chicken broth or water
-
2 tbsp butter
-
Salt, to taste
For the Roasted Broccoli:
-
2 cups broccoli florets
-
1 tbsp olive oil
-
Salt & pepper, to taste
Directions
1. Cook the Rice
Begin by preparing the base of your dish—creamy, fluffy rice that will soak up all the rich flavors of the garlic sauce. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth or water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, stir in 1 cup of long-grain white rice along with a pinch of salt. Immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer gently for about 15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this allows steam to escape, which can result in unevenly cooked rice.
Once the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed, remove the pan from heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter, allowing it to melt fully and coat every grain. This step is crucial, as it gives the rice a glossy, silky texture and a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy garlic chicken.
Pro Tip: For added depth of flavor, try toasting the rice in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes before adding the liquid. This simple step brings out a subtle, nutty aroma that elevates the dish without adding any extra ingredients. Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving to keep it light and airy.
2. Roast the Broccoli
While the rice is cooking, move on to preparing the broccoli, which will provide a crisp, nutritious contrast to the richness of the chicken and rice. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and cut 2 cups of broccoli into bite-sized florets. Place them in a medium bowl and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper, tossing everything together until each floret is lightly coated.
Arrange the broccoli evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer to ensure even roasting. Place the pan in the preheated oven and roast for 15–18 minutes. The broccoli should be tender but still slightly crisp, with edges that are lightly charred for a natural caramelized sweetness. Roasting rather than boiling allows the broccoli to retain more flavor and texture, adding a satisfying bite that balances the creamy chicken and buttery rice.
Cooking Tip: Shake the pan halfway through roasting to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. You can also squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the broccoli after roasting to add brightness and contrast to the creamy sauce.
3. Cook the Chicken
Now it’s time to prepare the star of the dish—the chicken. Pat 1 lb of chicken breasts or thighs dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of dried thyme or Italian seasoning. This basic seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the chicken while complementing the creamy garlic sauce.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the chicken to the pan and sear it for 5–6 minutes on each side. You want a golden-brown crust that locks in the juices and gives the chicken a rich, savory flavor. Once cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to rest.
Chef’s Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook in batches for the best texture and color. Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes ensures it stays tender and juicy when served.
4. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown too much, as burnt garlic can add a bitter taste. Once fragrant, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of chicken broth. Stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
Reduce the heat slightly and simmer the sauce for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a luscious, creamy consistency. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon and have a velvety texture that clings to the chicken. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
Extra Flavor Tip: For an even richer taste, add a small pinch of freshly cracked black pepper and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan just before serving. This enhances the depth of the sauce and gives it a subtle, cheesy finish that elevates the dish.
5. Combine & Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce, turning each piece to ensure it’s evenly coated. Let the chicken sit in the sauce for 1–2 minutes to soak up the flavors before plating. Serve each portion over a bed of buttery, fluffy rice, with roasted broccoli arranged neatly on the side. Spoon extra sauce over the chicken and rice for maximum indulgence and finish with a garnish of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestion: This dish pairs beautifully with a light green salad or crusty bread, which can be used to soak up the remaining garlic sauce. It also reheats exceptionally well, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying as leftovers the next day. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat and add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce needs loosening.
Why This Recipe Works
This dish works on multiple levels. The creamy garlic sauce adds richness and depth, while the buttered rice provides a comforting, hearty base. The roasted broccoli contributes both nutrition and texture, preventing the dish from feeling too heavy. Together, these components create a balanced meal that’s satisfying and flavorful.
The simplicity of this recipe also makes it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Even if you’re a beginner, following these step-by-step directions will help you achieve restaurant-quality results at home. Additionally, the recipe is highly adaptable—you can swap chicken thighs for breasts, add a squeeze of lemon to brighten the sauce, or toss in other roasted vegetables for variety.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken
-
Choose the Right Chicken: Thighs offer more juiciness and flavor, while breasts are leaner. Either works beautifully in this recipe.
-
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Sear until golden brown and check internal temperature—165°F (74°C) ensures it’s safe but still tender.
-
Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a brighter, more pronounced flavor than pre-minced or powdered garlic.
-
Simmer, Don’t Boil: When making the sauce, keep it at a gentle simmer to avoid separating the cream or making it grainy.
-
Garnish for Presentation: Fresh parsley or a light sprinkle of Parmesan enhances both taste and visual appeal.
Variations to Try
-
Cheesy Spin: Add a handful of shredded mozzarella or Gruyère to the sauce for extra creaminess.
-
Herb Twist: Mix in fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil for aromatic layers of flavor.
-
Veggie Boost: Swap broccoli for asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts depending on your preference.
-
Rice Alternatives: Try brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain sauce consistency. The dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Pairing Suggestions
Creamy Garlic Chicken over Buttered Rice & Roasted Broccoli pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine, sparkling water with a slice of lemon, or a light herbal iced tea. For a full meal, consider serving a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette or warm, crusty bread to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.
Health and Nutrition Highlights
This dish balances indulgence with nutrition. Chicken provides lean protein, broccoli offers fiber and vitamins, and rice supplies satisfying carbohydrates. Using moderate amounts of butter and cream keeps the recipe rich without being overwhelming, making it a perfect comfort meal for any occasion. By roasting vegetables and carefully simmering the sauce, you maximize flavor while keeping preparation straightforward and manageable.
FAQ
Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and rice a few hours in advance, then reheat gently before serving. Keep the sauce separate until ready to serve to maintain its creamy texture.
Q2: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely. Simply roast or sauté the frozen broccoli until tender, though the texture may be slightly softer than fresh.
Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative, and use a dairy-free butter substitute. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a similar cheesy flavor.
Q4: How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
Simmer for a few extra minutes, or whisk in a small slurry of cornstarch and water (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water) until desired consistency is achieved.
Creamy Garlic Chicken over Buttered Rice & Roasted Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This cozy dinner brings pure comfort to your plate — juicy golden chicken smothered in creamy garlic sauce, served over fluffy buttered rice with tender roasted broccoli. Every bite is rich, flavorful, and satisfying — Southern-style comfort meets simple weeknight ease. Perfect for family dinners or a quiet evening at home, this dish combines indulgent flavors with straightforward cooking techniques, making it approachable for cooks of all levels.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Sauce:
1 lb chicken breasts or thighs
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish
For the Buttered Rice:
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth or water
2 tbsp butter
Salt, to taste
For the Roasted Broccoli:
2 cups broccoli florets
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
-
Cook the Rice
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth (or water) to a boil. Stir in the rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of butter until fully melted and the rice is glossy. -
Roast the Broccoli
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15–18 minutes until tender and lightly charred. -
Cook the Chicken
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme. In a skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside. -
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and sauté minced garlic for 1–2 minutes. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, then stir in Parmesan. Simmer 3–5 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally. -
Combine & Serve
Return chicken to the skillet and coat with sauce. Serve over buttered rice with roasted broccoli on the side. Spoon extra sauce over everything and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
-
For extra flavor, toast the rice in a dry skillet for a few minutes before cooking.
-
Avoid overcrowding the chicken in the skillet to ensure proper searing.
-
Roasted broccoli can be finished with a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.
-
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat well with a splash of broth or cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
