CREAMY GARLIC CHICKEN BOWLS

I still remember the first time I tried to make a fancy dinner for a date. I was so nervous, trying to impress with something complicated, and it ended in a burnt offering and a pizza order. It was a disaster! That’s why I learned the beauty of simplicity – and that’s how I discovered how incredibly satisfying and easy to make Creamy Garlic Chicken Bowls – Irresistible & Easy Dinner can be. It’s a recipe that’s impressed even the pickiest eaters, and it’s now a staple in my household. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Creamy Garlic Chicken Bowls – Irresistible & Easy Dinner you’ll ever make!

Creamy Garlic Chicken Bowls: Your New Weeknight Hero

Let’s face it, weeknights can be chaotic. You’re tired, hungry, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where these Creamy Garlic Chicken Bowls come in. They’re quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Seriously, this recipe is a game-changer. Imagine tender, juicy chicken coated in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce, served over your favorite base – rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option. Are you drooling yet?

Why You’ll LOVE This Recipe:

• It’s Fast: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes!
• It’s Easy: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions mean anyone can make this.
• It’s Delicious: That creamy garlic sauce is seriously addictive.
• It’s Versatile: Customize it with your favorite veggies and toppings.
• It’s Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will devour this dish!

Gather Your Ingredients: The Shopping List

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s make sure you have everything you need. Don’t worry, the ingredient list is short and sweet!

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (don’t skimp on the garlic!)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp cold water – this prevents lumps!)
• 1/4 tsp dried Italian herbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• Cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
• Optional toppings: chopped fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, green onions

See? Nothing too intimidating! Now, let’s get cooking!

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Okay, bestie, are you ready to create some magic in the kitchen? Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken Bowl in no time.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

First, pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. This is important because it helps the chicken brown nicely. Trust me, you want that browning! Then, in a medium bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is evenly coated. This is where the flavor party starts!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of brown. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned on all sides. Set the cooked chicken aside in a bowl.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

Now for the star of the show! In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out – all those browned bits add flavor!), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, or it will become bitter. Nobody wants bitter garlic! Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This is where all the flavor lives!

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. This is your slurry, and it’s what will thicken the sauce. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering chicken broth, whisking constantly. Continue to simmer for about 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Now, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Maybe a little more Parmesan? A pinch of red pepper flakes? You’re the boss!

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. Simmer for a minute or two, just to let the flavors meld together. And that’s it! Your Creamy Garlic Chicken is ready to serve! Spoon the chicken and sauce over your choice of rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, and green onions, if desired.

Tips and Tricks for Creamy Garlic Chicken Bowl Perfection

Want to take your Creamy Garlic Chicken Bowls to the next level? Here are some of my favorite tips and tricks:

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken is dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic has a much more robust flavor than pre-minced garlic. Trust me, it makes a difference!
• Adjust the Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce.
• Add Some Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the skillet along with the chicken. Broccoli, bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms all work well.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little kick.
• Get Creative with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings. Avocado, tomatoes, shredded cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze are all great options.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet and serve over your choice of base.

Variations to Keep Things Interesting

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can customize it to your liking. Here are a few variations to try:

• Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta: Toss the chicken and sauce with your favorite cooked pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal.
• Creamy Garlic Chicken and Rice Casserole: This Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a great make-ahead dish for a crowd.
• Lemon Garlic Chicken: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce for a bright and tangy flavor.
• Spinach and Artichoke Creamy Garlic Chicken: Stir in some chopped spinach and artichoke hearts for a delicious and healthy twist.
• Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Before adding the chicken to the sauce, dredge it in Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.

Serving Suggestions: Beyond the Bowl

While Creamy Garlic Chicken Bowls are delicious on their own, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy this versatile dish. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve it with a side salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect complement to the rich and creamy chicken.
• Make it into a sandwich: Spoon the chicken and sauce onto a toasted bun for a delicious and satisfying sandwich.
• Use it as a filling for stuffed peppers: Fill bell peppers with a mixture of Creamy Garlic Chicken and cooked rice for a hearty and flavorful meal.
• Top it on pizza: Use the Creamy Garlic Chicken as a topping for homemade or store-bought pizza.
• Serve with Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness and complements the savory chicken.

You can even compare this flavor sensation to our BUTTER CHICKEN recipe, it also delivers a very creamy and savory deliciousness!

If you’re looking for something with a different flavor profile, why not try our HONEY PEPPER CHICKEN PASTA for a sweet and savory kick?

For a hands-off approach, give our SLOW COOKER LEMON CHICKEN a try. It’s incredibly easy and flavorful.

And if you’re in the mood for something with a bit more zing, then the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl might be right up your alley!

Or, for a lighter, healthier option, our High-Protein Chicken & Avocado Salad Bowl is both tasty and nutritious.

Troubleshooting: Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Even with the simplest recipes, things can sometimes go awry. Here are a few common issues you might encounter when making Creamy Garlic Chicken Bowls, and how to fix them:

• Sauce is too thin: If the sauce isn’t thickening up, make sure you used the correct amount of cornstarch slurry. You can also simmer the sauce for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce and thicken.
• Sauce is too thick: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Chicken is dry: Make sure you don’t overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also try marinating the chicken before cooking to help keep it moist.
• Garlic is burnt: Burnt garlic is bitter and unpleasant. If your garlic starts to burn, remove the skillet from the heat immediately. Start over with fresh garlic, using a lower heat setting.
• Sauce is lumpy: Make sure you whisk the cornstarch slurry thoroughly before adding it to the sauce. If the sauce still becomes lumpy, you can try using an immersion blender to smooth it out.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat your Creamy Garlic Chicken Bowls:

• Storage: Store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Store the cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice separately.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave. Reheat the rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice separately.

Final Thoughts: Go Forth and Create!

So there you have it, friend – my ultimate guide to making the most irresistible and easy Creamy Garlic Chicken Bowls. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I know you’re going to absolutely nail it. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and toppings to create your own signature version. Remember, cooking should be fun and enjoyable. So, put on some music, pour yourself a glass of wine, and get ready to create a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love!

Creamy Garlic Chicken Bowls

These Creamy Garlic Chicken Bowls are a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight meal. Tender chicken is coated in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce and served over your favorite base like rice or quinoa.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp cold water
• 1/4 tsp dried Italian herbs
• Cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for serving
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish optional
• Red pepper flakes for garnish optional
• Green onions, sliced for garnish optional

Equipment

• large skillet
• Medium bowl
• small bowl
• whisk
• measuring cups and spoons
• paper towels
• cutting board
• knife
• spatula or wooden spoon

Method

 

1. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels.
2. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
5. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned on all sides. Set aside in a bowl.
6. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
7. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
8. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
9. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
10. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering chicken broth, whisking constantly.
11. Continue to simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
12. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
13. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
14. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
15. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce.
16. Toss to coat everything evenly.
17. Simmer for a minute or two to meld the flavors.
18. Spoon the chicken and sauce over your choice of rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
19. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, and green onions, if desired.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use full-fat heavy cream. To adjust the thickness of the sauce, add more chicken broth to thin or simmer longer to thicken. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a more complete meal.