If there’s one dish that can brighten up a busy weeknight and still feel like a treat, Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are it! Imagine juicy, lightly charred chicken piled over a warm bed of your favorite grains, roasted broccoli that stays perfectly tender-crisp, and a generous drizzle of irresistibly rich, garlicky sauce. This meal is the ultimate balance of satisfying protein, vibrant veggies, and bold flavors — all in one beautiful bowl. Plus, it’s just as perfect for meal prep as it is for sharing with friends and family!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is built on simple, wholesome ingredients, each chosen for a specific reason. Every bite brings out the best in these everyday staples, from the tender chicken to the dreamy garlic sauce and colorful broccoli.
- Chicken Breasts: Lean, protein-packed, and perfect for soaking up savory grill seasoning.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps the spices stick while ensuring juicy, flavorful chicken and glossy broccoli.
- Garlic Powder: Infuses the chicken with a wonderful, mellow garlic essence that’s just delicious.
- Paprika: Brings sweet warmth and a subtle pop of color to the grilled chicken.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Basic but essential for seasoning both the chicken and the broccoli just right.
- Broccoli Florets: Roasts up tender, slightly crisp, and soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: The creamy base for the sauce, lending tang and silky texture.
- Fresh Garlic: Delivers a punchy, aromatic kick to the sauce.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens up the flavors and balances the creamy richness of the sauce.
- Cooked Rice, Quinoa, or Cauliflower Rice: The hearty foundation of your bowl; pick your favorite or mix and match!
- Optional Garnishes (Parsley or Green Onions): For a burst of color and fresh flavor right before serving.
How to Make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by patting down those chicken breasts so they’re ready to soak up all the flavor. Brush each piece with olive oil, then sprinkle over the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give them a little rub so the spices are evenly distributed — trust me, this makes every bite pop!
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Fire up your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lay the chicken down and let it sizzle for about 5 to 6 minutes per side. You’re looking for gorgeous grill marks and juicy meat. If you’re unsure, check with a meat thermometer for an internal temp of 165°F (74°C). As soon as it’s done, let the chicken rest a minute, then slice into strips that are perfect for piling into bowls.
Step 3: Roast or Steam the Broccoli
While the chicken cooks, toss your broccoli florets with olive oil, a pinch of salt, and some black pepper. For extra flavor, I love roasting them at 400°F (200°C) for 12 to 15 minutes — they come out tender on the inside and just a little crisp on the edges! Prefer steamed broccoli? Go for it, just until they’re bright green and fork-tender.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Now for the magic touch in these Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce! In a small bowl, combine your Greek yogurt (or sour cream), minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until you get a smooth, creamy sauce that’s packed with garlicky goodness. Give it a taste and tweak the seasoning — a little extra lemon or garlic never hurt!
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Spoon your cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice into the bottom of each bowl. Fan out the tender slices of grilled chicken and arrange the roasted broccoli artistically. Now for the best part: drizzle everything with your creamy garlic sauce, letting it pool just a bit. Top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or sliced green onions if you’re feeling fancy!
How to Serve Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Garnishes
Finish these bowls with a flourish! Chopped parsley or green onions add both a fresh flavor and a punch of color that makes each bowl even more tempting. A wedge of lemon on the side lets everyone add extra zing to their own bowls.
Side Dishes
While Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a meal on their own, a side of warm pita, a fresh cucumber-tomato salad, or even some crispy roasted potatoes can make dinner feel extra special. If you like a little heat, a spoonful of chili crisp or hot sauce on the side adds a fun kick!
Creative Ways to Present
Why not turn dinner into a little build-your-own-bowl party? Set out all the bowl components separately and let everyone pile on their favorites. Or, for a packed lunch, layer the grains, veggies, and chicken in a jar and keep the sauce on the side until you’re ready to dig in. These bowls also look beautiful arranged on a large platter for family-style serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, pack leftover Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce in airtight containers. The sauce keeps best in a separate small container to preserve its creamy texture. Everything will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days, making weekday lunches a dream!
Freezing
Both the grilled chicken and cooked broccoli freeze beautifully. Let them cool, then stash in freezer-safe bags for up to two months. For best results, keep the creamy garlic sauce out of the freezer, as dairy-based sauces can change texture after freezing — but it’s quick to whip up fresh!
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until just warmed through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first. Add the creamy garlic sauce only after everything else is hot, so it stays smooth and luscious.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a little more forgiving and have extra flavor, making them a fantastic swap in Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce. Just adjust the grilling time as they may take an extra minute or two.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No problem at all. A grill pan or even a regular skillet works just fine. You can also bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until cooked through, though you’ll miss that lovely charred flavor.
Can I make this dairy free?
Definitely! Try a dairy-free yogurt (like coconut or soy-based) for the creamy garlic sauce. The flavors pair really well, and you won’t miss a thing in these bowls.
Is the bowl gluten free?
As long as you choose a gluten-free grain (like rice or quinoa) and double-check the ingredients in your yogurt or sour cream, you’re all set! Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are naturally gluten free.
How can I add more veggies?
Get creative: try roasting bell peppers, shredded carrots, or snap peas alongside the broccoli. Pile them into your bowls with the chicken and let the creamy garlic sauce bring everything together!
Final Thoughts
There’s so much joy in sitting down to a vibrant, satisfying meal with just the right balance of flavor, color, and nutrition. If you’ve never tried Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce before, I hope you fall in love at first bite. Don’t be surprised if these easy, delicious bowls become a regular request at your table!
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Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delicious and healthy meal option that combines tender grilled chicken, flavorful roasted broccoli, and a creamy garlic sauce over a bed of rice or quinoa. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Broccoli:
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush chicken with olive oil and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Grill 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Slice into strips.
- Cook the Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until tender-crisp, or steam until bright green and just tender.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide rice or grain base among serving bowls. Top with grilled chicken strips and roasted broccoli. Drizzle with creamy garlic sauce. Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling, Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 540 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
