Looking for a quick, satisfying dinner that’s packed with flavor and comes together with minimal effort? These Easy Chicken & Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are exactly what you need. Juicy, seasoned chicken served over fluffy rice, drizzled with a rich, tangy garlic sauce — it’s a weeknight win the whole family will love.
Not only is this meal simple and affordable, but it’s also versatile. Swap in veggies, use brown rice or quinoa, or meal prep it for lunches. With bold, garlicky flavor and creamy texture, this bowl earns a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients (in grams)
For the Chicken:
- 600 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 15 g olive oil (1 tbsp)
- 5 g garlic powder (1 tsp)
- 5 g onion powder (1 tsp)
- 4 g smoked paprika (1 tsp)
- Salt and pepper to taste (approx. 4 g)
For the Rice:
- 250 g jasmine or basmati rice
- 500 ml water or chicken broth
- Pinch of salt
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 200 g plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 80 g mayonnaise
- 10 g minced garlic (2–3 cloves)
- 10 ml lemon juice (about 2 tsp)
- 3 g salt (½ tsp)
- 2 g ground black pepper (¼ tsp)
- 1–2 tablespoon water or milk to thin, as needed
Optional Bowl Toppings:
- 100 g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 100 g cucumber, diced
- 60 g shredded carrots
- 50 g red onion, thinly sliced
- 15 g fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
- Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a saucepan, combine rice, water or broth, and a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let rest (covered) for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayo, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Add a splash of water or milk to reach your desired consistency — it should be creamy but pourable.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
- Scoop rice into bowls.
- Top with cooked chicken, fresh veggies, and a generous drizzle of creamy garlic sauce.
- Garnish with herbs and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)
- Calories: 540 kcal
- Protein: 38 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
Nutritional values may vary based on toppings and sauce ingredients.
Tips & Tricks
- Make it spicy: Add sriracha or cayenne to the garlic sauce.
- Go low-carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage.
- Use rotisserie chicken for an even faster version.
- Meal prep-friendly: Store components separately and assemble fresh.
- Add crunch: Top with crushed pita chips, crispy onions, or toasted seeds.
Variations
- Mediterranean style: Add olives, feta, and a tzatziki-style sauce.
- Asian twist: Use teriyaki chicken and replace sauce with garlic-ginger dressing.
- Vegan: Sub tofu for chicken and use a plant-based yogurt/mayo combo for the sauce.
Why You’ll Love These Bowls
- Easy to prep and customize
- Rich in protein and flavor
- Balanced with carbs, veggies, and fats
- Crowd-pleasing for all ages
- Perfect for lunch or dinner
Whether you want a wholesome homemade meal or a quick fix after a busy day, these chicken and rice bowls will never disappoint.
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