Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Grilled chicken and broccoli bowls with creamy garlic sauce strike the perfect balance between comfort and nutrition. Tender, smoky chicken pairs beautifully with crisp-tender broccoli, all brought together by a luscious garlic sauce that adds richness without being overpowering. The bowls are versatile — you can serve them over rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice depending on your preferences. I once swapped the rice for couscous, and the fluffy texture soaked up the garlic sauce perfectly. These bowls are not just wholesome but also customizable, making them ideal for meal prep or a weeknight dinner that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce: A Balanced, Flavor-Packed Meal
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Healthy grilled chicken and broccoli bowls served with a rich and creamy garlic sauce. A balanced meal packed with lean protein, vegetables, and flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sauce)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken breasts with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, until fully cooked and juices run clear.
- Toss broccoli florets with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill or steam until tender.
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and Parmesan (if using) to make the creamy garlic sauce.
- Slice grilled chicken and assemble bowls with rice or quinoa, broccoli, and chicken.
- Drizzle with creamy garlic sauce before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
- For extra flavor, marinate chicken in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for 30 minutes before grilling.
- The garlic sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breasts or thighs — Lean, protein-packed, and perfect for grilling.
Broccoli florets — Fresh and vibrant, they add crunch, color, and plenty of nutrients.
Olive oil — Used to marinate chicken and toss broccoli for a light, golden finish.
Garlic cloves — Fresh garlic is essential for the rich, savory sauce.
Butter — Adds depth and creaminess to the sauce.
Heavy cream — Creates a silky base for the garlic sauce.
Parmesan cheese — Melts into the sauce, lending salty, nutty flavor.
Lemon juice — Brightens the sauce and balances richness.
Salt and black pepper — Simple seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
Cooked rice or grain of choice — The hearty base of the bowl that soaks up the sauce.
Fresh parsley (optional) — For garnish and freshness.
Directions
Marinate chicken breasts or thighs with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Grill over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juicy. Let rest before slicing into strips.
Meanwhile, steam or blanch broccoli until crisp-tender, about 3–4 minutes, then toss with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
For the garlic sauce, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in grated Parmesan until smooth and slightly thickened. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble bowls by layering rice at the base, topping with grilled chicken and broccoli, and drizzling generously with creamy garlic sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, cooking requires 20 minutes, and total time is 35 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Chicken and broccoli can also be stored separately from the sauce to maintain texture. Freezing is not recommended for the sauce, as it may separate.
Variations and Customizations
Low-Carb Bowl — Replace rice with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Spicy Kick — Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the garlic sauce.
Cheesy Upgrade — Stir extra mozzarella into the sauce for more indulgence.
Asian-Inspired — Swap creamy sauce for a soy-garlic glaze and serve with sesame seeds.
Mediterranean Bowl — Add olives, roasted red peppers, and a drizzle of tzatziki.
Vegan-Friendly — Use plant-based cream, vegan Parmesan, and grilled tofu instead of chicken.
Herb-Infused — Add fresh thyme or basil to the garlic sauce for aromatic depth.
Nutty Finish — Sprinkle toasted almonds or cashews over the bowl for crunch.
Meal Prep Style — Portion into containers and store sauce separately to pour over before serving.
Breakfast Twist — Top with a fried or poached egg for a protein boost.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs stay juicier and work perfectly with grilling.
Do I have to grill the chicken?
No, you can pan-sear, bake, or air fry the chicken if grilling isn’t an option.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw and steam lightly before adding.
How do I thicken the garlic sauce?
Simmer it gently until reduced, or add extra Parmesan for thickness.
Can I make the sauce lighter?
Yes, substitute half-and-half or milk for the cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
What grains work best as a base?
Rice, quinoa, couscous, or farro all pair nicely with the flavors.
How do I keep chicken juicy on the grill?
Marinate briefly and avoid overcooking — use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently with added milk.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your Parmesan and grains are gluten-free.
Can I double this recipe for meal prep?
Absolutely — it’s a great choice for batch cooking.
Conclusion
Grilled chicken and broccoli bowls with creamy garlic sauce are a wholesome yet indulgent dish that satisfies with every bite. Juicy chicken, crisp broccoli, and velvety garlic sauce come together over a hearty base, making it versatile for both casual dinners and weekly meal prep. With endless customization options, this recipe can easily adapt to your preferences — from low-carb swaps to spiced-up variations. Once you try it, this balanced, flavorful bowl will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.