Chicken Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it brings together the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The chicken is tender and full of flavor, thanks to the simple yet effective seasoning. The rice provides a comforting base, while the veggies add a refreshing crunch and color. And the creamy garlic sauce? It ties everything together with its rich, tangy goodness. It’s quick to make, satisfying, and feels like a treat while still being a healthy, balanced meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowls:

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup cucumber, diced

• 1/2 cup shredded carrots

• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

• Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Water or milk, as needed, to thin

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the seasoned chicken for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Set aside.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add a little water or milk to reach your desired sauce consistency.

3. To assemble the bowls, divide the cooked rice between serving bowls.

4. Top each with cooked chicken, tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, and red onions.

5. Drizzle generously with creamy garlic sauce and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm or chilled.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

If you want to customize this recipe to your taste or dietary preferences, there are plenty of options. For a lower-carb version, you could swap the rice for cauliflower rice. For extra protein, you could add some grilled shrimp or chickpeas. If you’re a fan of heat, feel free to add a dash of chili flakes or hot sauce to the garlic sauce. The veggies are also versatile—use what you have on hand, such as bell peppers, corn, or even avocado for a creamy twist!

Storage/Reheating

This dish is perfect for meal prep! The rice bowls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend keeping the creamy garlic sauce in a separate container to prevent it from making the rice soggy. To reheat, simply microwave the rice and chicken bowl, adding a little extra sauce if needed.

FAQs

How can I make the creamy garlic sauce spicier?

If you want to add some heat to the creamy garlic sauce, try incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or finely chopped jalapeños. I love how the heat complements the creaminess of the sauce.

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Definitely! You can use grilled shrimp, tofu, or even beef for a different twist. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the protein you’re using.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can! I like to cook the chicken, rice, and veggies ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Then, when it’s time to serve, I just assemble the bowls and add the creamy garlic sauce. It makes for an easy and quick meal!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just be sure to double-check the ingredients in your mayo and yogurt to ensure they’re gluten-free, especially if you opt for a store-bought version.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Of course! Brown rice is a great substitute if you prefer a more hearty and fiber-rich option. It pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.

Conclusion

These Chicken Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a delicious and versatile meal that’s perfect for busy nights or meal prepping for the week ahead. The combination of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a rich, creamy sauce creates a meal that’s balanced and bursting with flavor. Whether I’m serving it for a family dinner or enjoying it on my own, this dish always hits the spot!