If you’re searching for a meal that’s as vibrant and satisfying as it is wholesome, look no further than Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce. This dish brings together juicy, spice-rubbed chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, fluffy grains, and a luscious, tangy garlic sauce that ties everything together in one irresistible bowl. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or prepping meals for busy days ahead, these bowls check every box for flavor, nutrition, and easy customization.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce is in its simplicity—each ingredient pulls its weight, delivering bold flavors, delightful textures, and a pop of color that makes every bite exciting. Gather these kitchen staples and you’ll be well on your way to a crave-worthy dinner.
- Chicken breasts: Lean and protein-packed, chicken breasts provide a hearty base and soak up the spices perfectly.
- Olive oil: Essential for both marinating and grilling, olive oil keeps the chicken moist and adds a subtle richness.
- Garlic powder: Delivers deep, savory flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Paprika: Adds warmth, gentle smokiness, and a hint of color to the chicken.
- Salt and black pepper: The classic duo that brings out all the other flavors in the bowl.
- Broccoli florets: Vibrant and nutritious, broccoli adds crunch and gorgeous green color.
- Cooked brown rice or quinoa: These wholesome grains serve as the perfect canvas for your toppings.
- Olive oil spray or additional oil: Prevents sticking and helps everything grill up beautifully.
- Greek yogurt: The creamy, tangy backbone of the sauce, adding a protein boost, too.
- Mayonnaise: Just a spoonful lends a luxurious silkiness and rounds out the sauce’s flavor.
- Lemon juice: Brightens up the sauce and cuts through the richness with a fresh zing.
- Fresh garlic: Gives the sauce its signature punch—don’t be shy, it’s worth it!
- Olive oil (for the sauce): Adds smoothness and helps the flavors meld together.
- Salt and black pepper (for the sauce): Balances and enhances the bright, garlicky notes.
- Water (to thin, if needed): Adjusts the sauce consistency so it drizzles just right.
How to Make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Start by pounding your chicken breasts to an even thickness—this ensures they cook quickly and evenly on the grill. In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, coating every piece thoroughly. For even more flavor, let the chicken marinate in the spice mixture for 30 minutes if you have the time; it makes a noticeable difference!
Step 2: Fire Up the Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly brush or spray with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, until grill marks appear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing—this helps keep it juicy and tender for your Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce.
Step 3: Broccoli Time
While the chicken is grilling, steam or blanch your broccoli florets until just tender and bright green, about 3 to 4 minutes. If you prefer deeper flavor, try roasting the broccoli instead! Once cooked, set the broccoli aside—this veggie brings freshness and crunch to every bowl.
Step 4: Whisk Up the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth. If the sauce feels a bit thick, add water a tablespoon at a time, whisking until it’s perfectly creamy and pourable. This sauce is the magic touch that pulls the whole meal together.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Divide your cooked brown rice or quinoa into four serving bowls. Top each with slices of freshly grilled chicken and a pile of vibrant broccoli. Drizzle everything generously with your creamy garlic sauce. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious harmony of flavors in every bite of your Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Garnishes
Elevate your bowls with fresh garnishes like chopped parsley, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, or a dusting of toasted sesame seeds. A squeeze of fresh lemon right before serving adds an extra layer of brightness that complements the creamy garlic sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
These bowls are a complete meal on their own, but if you’re entertaining or want a little extra, go for a crisp green salad, warm pita bread, or a side of roasted sweet potatoes. Each pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your bowls family-style, letting everyone build their own creation from a platter of sliced chicken, bowls of broccoli, fluffy grains, and a pitcher of creamy garlic sauce. Or, assemble the bowls in mason jars for a fun, portable lunch option that’s as pretty as it is practical.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce keep beautifully in the fridge. Store the chicken, broccoli, grains, and sauce in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days; this way, everything stays fresh and you can assemble bowls as needed.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken, broccoli, and grains for up to 2 months. Just let everything cool completely, pack into freezer-safe bags or containers, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Skip freezing the sauce, as it’s best made fresh for the creamiest texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken, broccoli, and grains together in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Stir the sauce well and drizzle it over the hot bowls right before serving for maximum flavor and freshness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will be even juicier and are just as delicious in Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce. Simply adjust the grill time as needed since thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.
Is there a dairy-free option for the creamy garlic sauce?
Yes, you can swap the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise for your favorite dairy-free alternatives. Coconut yogurt and vegan mayo work well, giving you a sauce that’s still rich and flavorful.
What’s the best way to meal prep these bowls?
Prepare all the components in advance—grill the chicken, cook the grains, steam the broccoli, and make the sauce. Store them separately in the fridge, then assemble just before eating for the freshest Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce all week long.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The creamy garlic sauce can be mixed up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight jar in the refrigerator. Just give it a stir before drizzling over your bowls.
What other vegetables can I use?
Feel free to get creative! Roasted cauliflower, sautéed bell peppers, or even wilted spinach make fantastic additions or substitutions in Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that’s nourishing, endlessly customizable, and packed with bold flavors, you owe it to yourself to try Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce. They’re as fun to make as they are to eat—so gather your favorite toppings and dig in!
Print
Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowl with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a healthy, high-protein meal perfect for quick lunches or dinners. Tender grilled chicken breasts are seasoned with garlic and paprika, served alongside steamed broccoli and brown rice or quinoa, then topped with a tangy, creamy garlic sauce made from Greek yogurt and lemon juice. A balanced, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and meal prep friendly.
Ingredients
For the Bowls
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- Olive oil spray or additional oil for grilling
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove (minced or grated)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1–2 tablespoons water (to thin, if needed)
Instructions
- Prep the chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking. In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until fully coated.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Cook the broccoli: While the chicken cooks, steam or blanch the broccoli florets until just tender, about 3–4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the creamy garlic sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Add water a tablespoon at a time to reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Assemble the bowls: Divide the cooked brown rice or quinoa evenly into four bowls. Top each with sliced grilled chicken and steamed broccoli. Drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce and serve warm.
Notes
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for 30 minutes before grilling.
- You can roast the broccoli instead of steaming for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
- Substitute cauliflower rice as a low-carb alternative to brown rice or quinoa.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
