Creamy Garlic Chicken And Mushroom Rice

Name: Creamy Garlic Chicken And Mushroom Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless chicken breast, diced; 2 cups rice; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnishing

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Chicken and Mushroom Rice on cozy nights. It’s one of those dishes that brings comfort and satisfaction, especially when I want something hearty yet simple to prepare. The blend of tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and earthy mushrooms creates such a rich flavor that feels indulgent. Moreover, the creamy rice absorbs all those delicious juices, making each bite a treat. This meal not only fills my belly but warms my heart like a big hug from an old friend.

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-24T02:02:37.079Z

When I first tried making this Creamy Garlic Chicken and Mushroom Rice, I didn't expect it to become a family favorite. I experimented with different ratios of cream and broth until I got the perfect balance that gives the dish a rich, velvety texture without overwhelming it. Incorporating fresh herbs at the end elevates the flavors even more, tying everything together beautifully.

One particular tip I learned was to sear the chicken thoroughly before simmering it. This not only locks in the juices but also adds a depth of flavor to the dish. Trust me, those crispy bits are the key to a delicious meal!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy garlic sauce that coats every grain of rice
Tender chicken and mushrooms create a hearty texture
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

The Importance of Broth

Using a quality chicken broth is key to elevating the flavor of your Creamy Garlic Chicken and Mushroom Rice. A good broth will add depth to your dish, infusing the rice with a savory richness that enhances every bite. If you have homemade broth, I highly recommend using it for the best flavor. However, if you're short on time, a low-sodium store-bought broth works well, as it allows you to control the saltiness of the dish more effectively.

For those looking for alternative options, vegetable broth can be a great substitution if you’re making a vegetarian version. Just keep in mind that this will slightly alter the flavor, making it a bit lighter. If you want to ensure that you maintain a creamy texture and richness, consider adding a bit of nutritional yeast or a tablespoon of butter to the vegetable broth for added depth.

Perfecting the Cream Sauce

To achieve the perfect creamy consistency, gradually stir the heavy cream into the dish once you combine the chicken back in. This allows the cream to emulsify with the other ingredients, creating a velvety sauce that clings to the rice. Be sure to let it simmer gently after adding the cream to let it thicken without boiling, which can cause the cream to separate. Look for bubbles around the edges and a glossy surface to indicate that it’s ready to serve.

If you're conscious about calories or simply prefer a lighter dish, you can swap out heavy cream for a mixture of half-and-half and a tablespoon of cornstarch. This will still provide a creamy texture while reducing fat content. Just be sure to add it toward the end of cooking and allow it to simmer for a few minutes to thicken properly.

Making it Your Own

Feel free to personalize this dish to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Adding other vegetables like spinach or peas not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds lovely color and freshness to the dish. You can throw in spinach right after adding the cream—just let it wilt gently before serving. For a little extra zest, a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can elevate the flavors beautifully.

If you're preparing this for a family dinner, consider doubling the recipe to ensure leftovers. The creamy chicken and rice reheat well; just add a splash of broth when reheating to restore moisture. It’s a comforting option for busy weeknights when you can skip cooking again and simply enjoy the delicious results from your previous effort.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious meal!

Main Ingredients

1 pound boneless chicken breast, diced
2 cups rice
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnishing

Make sure everything is prepped before you begin cooking for optimal results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy masterpiece!

Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 4-5 minutes until they're soft. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Rice and Liquid

Stir in the rice, and coat it well with the mushroom and garlic mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Combine All Ingredients

Return the seared chicken back to the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine all ingredients. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until heated through.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy delight!

This dish is sure to impress your family and friends!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese into the creamy sauce before serving. It will enhance the taste and add an extra layer of creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this creamy dish with a simple side salad can create a well-rounded meal. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the rice and chicken, providing a refreshing contrast. Consider adding sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese to your salad for added flavor and texture.

For those who prefer bread, serving crusty bread or garlic knots alongside the rice can be a delightful twist. They not only serve as a vehicle for the creamy sauce but also add an indulgent element to the meal. A side of steamed vegetables can also add a nutritious component, helping to fill out the plate.

Storage Tips

This Creamy Garlic Chicken and Mushroom Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results, cool the dish to room temperature before placing it in the fridge to preserve texture and flavor. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain creaminess.

If you’re looking to keep leftovers for a longer period, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer if stored properly. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or in the microwave with a little added liquid.

Variations to Try

Experimenting with different proteins can create entirely new variations of this dish. Substituting boneless chicken with shrimp or diced turkey provides a different flavor profile while maintaining a quick cooking time. Both protein options pair beautifully with the creamy garlic sauce and absorb the flavors effectively.

If you want to enhance the dish's umami notes, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or a splash of soy sauce during the cooking process. These additions will complement the mushrooms and garlic, creating a dimension of flavor that can transform your creamy rice into a standout meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you'll need to increase the cooking time and adjust the amount of broth used, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, but it will slightly change the texture and richness.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time, just reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.

→ What other proteins can I use?

Pork or shrimp also work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.