This Grilled Chicken Bowl with Creamy Pepper is a wholesome, hearty, and flavor-packed meal that brings together tender, seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, peppery cream sauce. It’s a satisfying dish that fits beautifully into both lunch and dinner settings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish offers the perfect balance of lean protein, fresh produce, and indulgent creaminess. The grilled chicken is seasoned and seared to perfection, while the creamy pepper sauce ties all the ingredients together with a punch of spice. It’s nutritious, filling, and can be customized endlessly.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Smoked paprika
- Bell peppers (yellow or red), diced
- Cucumbers, sliced
- Avocado, chopped
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional for garnish)
- For the creamy pepper sauce:
- Mayonnaise
- Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Crushed black pepper
- Dijon mustard
- Lemon juice
- Garlic (minced)
Tips by Elsa:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
- Use freshly cracked black pepper for the sauce for a more vibrant kick.
- Grill the chicken on high heat for those perfect charred marks.
directions
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and olive oil. Let marinate for 30 minutes if time permits.
- Grill the chicken on a stovetop grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Let rest, then slice.
- In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, crushed black pepper, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and garlic to create the creamy pepper sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- In a serving bowl, arrange a bed of sliced cucumbers and diced bell peppers. Add the sliced grilled chicken on top.
- Drizzle with the creamy pepper sauce generously. Garnish with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Tips by Elsa:
- Always allow the chicken to rest before slicing to retain juiciness.
- For meal prep, keep the sauce separate until ready to eat.
Servings and timing
Serves: 2–3 people
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne or chili flakes to the sauce.
- Low Carb: Replace veggies with leafy greens like kale or spinach.
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken for grilled halloumi or tofu.
- Asian Twist: Use sesame oil in the marinade and top with sesame seeds.
- Mexican Style: Add black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of cheddar.
Tips by Elsa:
- To make it dairy-free, use vegan mayo and coconut yogurt in the sauce.
- Prep vegetables in advance and store in airtight containers for a quick bowl assembly.
storage/reheating
Store leftover grilled chicken separately from the vegetables and sauce to maintain texture. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To reheat chicken, microwave for 30–60 seconds or warm in a skillet. The sauce can be kept in a sealed container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
Tips by Elsa:
- Keep veggies raw and crisp by storing them dry and separately.
- Avoid freezing the sauce as it may separate when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pepper sauce?
Yes, but making it fresh enhances flavor and allows customization.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. Keep each component separate and assemble when ready to eat.
What vegetables can I add?
Carrots, shredded cabbage, cherry tomatoes, or radishes are great options.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it saves time and still works wonderfully in this bowl.
What’s the best cut of chicken to use?
Chicken thighs offer more flavor, but breasts are leaner and work well too.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it up to 4 days in advance and refrigerate.
Is it suitable for kids?
Yes, reduce the pepper content in the sauce for a milder flavor.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
Sour cream or plain unsweetened yogurt are good substitutes.
Can I grill the chicken on a pan?
Yes, a grill pan or even a cast iron skillet works fine.
How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
Do not overcook. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
The Grilled Chicken Bowl with Creamy Pepper is a vibrant, nourishing, and customizable recipe that brings freshness and flavor to the table. With grilled meat, crisp vegetables, and a zesty sauce, it offers a perfect balance for a light yet satisfying meal. Ideal for healthy lunches or a quick dinner, this bowl is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.