I recently made this Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe, and I can honestly say they are a game-changer for weeknight dinners. The chicken turns out golden and crispy, while the rice soaks up all those amazing spices. If you’re looking for other sweet breakfast treats, the Sweetheart Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is a delicious option to try on a lazy weekend morning.
The creamy garlic sauce is rich and tangy, and it really pulls the dish together. I love how easy it is to prepare but still feels fancy. After making it a few times, I’ve got some tips to share to make yours perfect every time.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful meal:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – chicken skin crisps beautifully and stays juicy
- 1 large yellow onion, diced – adds natural sweetness and depth
- 5 garlic cloves, divided – fresh garlic gives a vibrant flavor; don’t use pre-minced
- ½ tbsp paprika – brings subtle smokiness to the rice
- ½ tbsp oregano – enhances Mediterranean flavors
- ½ tsp fennel seeds (whole) – adds a mild licorice note, optional but recommended
- ½ tsp chili flakes – for a gentle kick
- 1 cup jasmine rice – fragrant and fluffy, avoids sticky texture
- 2 cups chicken broth – richer flavor than water; can substitute water with extra salt
- 1 bay leaf – infuses subtle herbal aroma
- 1 large English cucumber, chopped – crunchy and fresh in salad
- 250g cherry tomatoes, halved – sweet juiciness balances the dish
- 1 red pepper, chopped – adds color and natural sweetness
- 1 shallot, thinly sliced – mild flavor; red onion can be used if needed
- 100g feta cheese – crumbled for creamy, salty bursts
- 2 cups Greek yogurt – full-fat yogurt creates a silky garlic sauce
- 2 lemons – juice and zest brighten the dish
- Olive oil – for cooking and dressing
- Salt and pepper – essential for seasoning
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley – adds freshness and color
Note: This recipe serves 4–6 people generously.
Variations
I love experimenting with this recipe depending on dietary needs or flavor preferences:
- Swap Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan-friendly sauce.
- Use cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice for a low-carb version.
- Add smoked paprika or cumin for a deeper, smoky flavor.
- Replace chicken with tofu or shrimp for a protein alternative.
- Mix fresh herbs like dill or mint into the garlic sauce for an aromatic twist.
- If you’re in the mood for a decadent cheesy dish, you can also enjoy the Creamy Lobster Mac & Cheese Recipe as a fun side or main on special occasions.
Cooking Time
Here’s a quick glance at how long this recipe takes:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Equipment You Need
To make this dish, I rely on a few essential tools:
- Large oven-proof skillet with lid – to cook chicken and bake rice together
- Large plate – for resting chicken
- Medium bowl – to prepare the garlic sauce
- Microplane or grater – for zesting lemons
- Large bowl – to mix the salad
- Chef’s knife – for chopping vegetables and herbs
- Cutting board – keeps prep organized and safe
How to Make Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Here’s how I make this meal step by step.
Preparing the Chicken
I start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. I heat a little olive oil in a cold skillet and place the chicken skin-side-down, cooking on medium until the skin is golden and crispy. This method slowly renders the fat and locks in juiciness.
Cooking the Rice and Aromatics
After setting the chicken aside, I sauté diced onions and sliced garlic until soft. Then I stir in paprika, oregano, chili flakes, and fennel seeds to toast briefly. Adding jasmine rice and chicken broth, I nestle the chicken back in the pan, cover, and transfer to the oven.
Making the Creamy Garlic Sauce
While the rice bakes, I mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice, lemon zest, grated garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. A little chopped parsley at the end adds freshness. I always taste and adjust seasoning—sometimes it needs a tiny pinch more salt.
Preparing the Salad
I toss cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red pepper, and shallot with a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon, red wine vinegar, honey, mustard, and oregano. It balances the rich chicken and rice perfectly.
Finishing and Serving
Once the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal), I remove it from the oven, squeeze the remaining lemon juice over the top, and garnish with parsley. I serve the chicken and rice alongside the fresh salad and creamy garlic sauce for a colorful, satisfying meal.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
From my experience making this multiple times, here’s how I get it perfect:
- I always start the chicken in a cold pan; it makes the skin extra crispy.
- Using fresh garlic and zest really elevates the sauce.
- Don’t skip resting the chicken; it keeps the meat juicy.
- I like to toast the spices briefly—they release more aroma.
- Preparing the salad last keeps it crisp and fresh.
How to Serve Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
I love to serve this meal with a visually appealing presentation:
- Spoon rice into a bowl first, then top with chicken.
- Drizzle creamy garlic sauce over the chicken generously.
- Add salad on the side and sprinkle feta and parsley on top.
- For extra flair, a wedge of lemon brightens the plate.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick overview of what’s in each serving:
- Calories: 520–580 kcal
- Protein: 30–35g
- Carbohydrates: 40–45g
- Fat: 25–30g
These values can vary slightly depending on the exact ingredients used.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing
I let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken and rice separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the yogurt sauce; make fresh when serving.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist. The chicken reheats best covered to avoid drying out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why this dish keeps me coming back for more:
- Easy to make – one skillet does most of the work, and the steps are simple.
- Flavor-packed – crispy chicken, spiced rice, and tangy garlic sauce.
- Customizable – swap proteins, rice, or make it dairy-free.
- Vibrant presentation – colorful salad and garnishes make it Instagram-ready.
- Balanced meal – protein, carbs, and veggies all in one bowl.
