Rice with Garlic Chicken

Rice with Garlic Chicken is a savory, satisfying dish that features tender chicken pieces cooked with aromatic garlic, all served over fluffy rice. This one-pan recipe is perfect for a hearty weeknight meal and brings together simple ingredients to create a comforting, flavorful experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and easy to make with minimal cleanup

• Rich garlic flavor that enhances the chicken and rice

• One-pan cooking makes it convenient and efficient

• Customizable with vegetables or spices

• Hearty and satisfying—perfect for lunch or dinner

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken thighs or breasts, diced

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Long-grain white rice

• Chicken broth

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper

• Optional: chopped vegetables like bell peppers or peas

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then sauté until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

4. Stir in uncooked rice and cook for 2–3 minutes to toast lightly.

5. Add chicken broth and return the chicken to the pan. Stir to combine.

6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

7. Fluff rice with a fork, adjust seasoning, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Use brown rice for a whole grain option (increase cooking time and liquid)

• Add chili flakes for a spicier version

• Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving

• Mix in sautéed mushrooms, carrots, or green beans for more vegetables

• Substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for variation

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, or microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, but reduce the amount of broth and cooking time. Add the rice after the chicken is cooked and simmer just until heated through.

What cut of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs offer the most flavor, but breasts work well too if you prefer leaner meat.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, though fresh garlic provides better flavor. Use about ½ teaspoon of garlic powder per clove.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and confirm that other ingredients are free of additives.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well and can be made a day in advance. Reheat before serving.

What vegetables pair well with this dish?

Peas, bell peppers, broccoli, spinach, and carrots all pair nicely.

How do I keep the rice from becoming mushy?

Use the right rice-to-liquid ratio, and avoid stirring too much while it simmers.

Can I make this in a rice cooker?

Yes. Sauté the garlic and chicken first, then transfer to the rice cooker with the rice and broth to finish cooking.

What type of rice is best?

Long-grain white rice works best for a fluffy texture, but jasmine or basmati are also great alternatives.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes. Let it cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

Rice with Garlic Chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that delivers a complete meal in a single pan. Whether you stick with the classic version or customize it with vegetables and spices, it’s a reliable go-to recipe for any day of the week. Its ease of preparation, balanced nutrition, and robust flavor make it a staple in any kitchen.