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–+ servings
A close-up of a creamy chicken farfalle pasta bowl, garnished with fresh basil and sun-dried tomatoes.

The Only Rice Bowls Recipes Recipe You’ll Need (2025)

Discover a quick, easy, and nutritious rice bowl recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights. This customizable dish is ideal for home cooks seeking flavorful and healthy meal options.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1/4 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes chopped
  • 1 lb boneless chicken breasts or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp salted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 12 oz dry shortcut pasta
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes optional
  • 1.5 cup whole milk
  • 4 oz cream cheese cubed
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup fresh Italian basil chopped

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and Italian seasoning. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and chili flakes (if using) into the skillet with the chicken.
  4. Add milk and cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add the drained pasta and grated parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss to combine and coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
  6. Let the pasta sit for about 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped basil.

Notes

This recipe is a base for creativity. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add more vegetables or plant-based protein.

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