Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Introduction

These Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are the perfect easy weeknight dinner. Ready in under 30 minutes, they feature tender grilled chicken and crisp broccoli over fluffy rice, all smothered in a rich, homemade garlic sauce. For another quick chicken favorite, try these Spicy Grilled or Air Fried Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe.

Ingredients

These simple ingredients come together to create a satisfying meal with juicy grilled chicken, crisp broccoli, and a rich, tangy garlic sauce that ties everything together.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tbsp lime or lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Cooked rice, quinoa, or grain of choice

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Context: This Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce recipe is about 25% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Chicken

Pat 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of paprika or your favorite dry rub.

Let the seasoned chicken sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly on the grill.

Step 2 — Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400–450°F). Clean the grates thoroughly and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.

If using a grill pan indoors, heat it over medium-high until a drop of water sizzles on contact.

Step 3 — Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken on the hot grill. Cook for 6–8 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until grill marks form and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy. Avoid pressing down on the chicken so it stays juicy.

Step 4 — Prepare the Broccoli

While the chicken cooks, chop 1 large head of broccoli into florets. Toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Spread the broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F for 18–22 minutes, or until tender and slightly crisp at the edges.

Step 5 — Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup Greek yogurt, ¼ cup mayonnaise, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill.

Whisk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a thinner sauce, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of water or milk.

Step 6 — Rest and Slice the Chicken

Transfer the grilled chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute.

Slice the chicken against the grain into ½-inch strips. Cutting against the grain ensures tender, easy-to-chew pieces.

Step 7 — Assemble the Bowls

Divide 3 cups of cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice among 4 bowls. Top with the roasted broccoli and sliced grilled chicken.

Drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce. Garnish with extra herbs, red pepper flakes, or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories	480
Protein	42g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	25g
Fiber	5g
Sodium	620mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey or Tofu — Swap chicken for lean ground turkey or firm tofu to vary protein while keeping the dish satisfying.
• Cauliflower Rice — Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a lower-carb, gluten-free base.
• Zucchini Noodles — Replace rice with zucchini noodles for a fresh, low-carb alternative.
• Coconut Milk Sauce — Make the creamy garlic sauce dairy-free by using coconut milk instead of dairy cream.
• Cashew Cream Sauce — Blend soaked cashews with garlic for a rich, dairy-free, and lower-sodium sauce option.
• Steamed Asparagus — Substitute broccoli with steamed asparagus to add variety and keep the dish low-carb.
• Quinoa Base — Use quinoa in place of rice for added protein and a gluten-free, nutrient-rich bowl.
• Low-Sodium Tamari — Replace any soy sauce with low-sodium tamari to reduce sodium while maintaining flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with fluffy quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome, fiber-rich meal.
• Serve alongside a crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the creamy garlic sauce.
• Perfect for meal prep—portion into containers for easy weekday lunches.
• Great for summer barbecues or casual weeknight dinners with family.
• Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor and color.
• Ideal for post-workout recovery, offering lean protein and nutrient-packed broccoli.
• Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors and creamy sauce drizzled over top.

These Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are versatile enough for any occasion, from quick dinners to entertaining guests.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcooking the chicken, making it dry and tough. Fix: Use a meat thermometer and pull chicken at 165°F (74°C) for perfect juiciness.
• Mistake: Steaming broccoli instead of getting a char. Fix: Pat broccoli dry and grill over direct, high heat for flavorful caramelization.
• Mistake: Making the garlic sauce too thin or bland. Fix: Use full-fat Greek yogurt or mayo and freshly minced garlic for a rich, potent sauce.
• Mistake: Not marinating the chicken, leading to lackluster flavor. Fix: Marinate for at least 30 minutes in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.
• Mistake: Crowding the grill, which steams the food. Fix: Leave space between pieces to ensure proper air circulation and browning.
• Mistake: Cutting broccoli florets too large, causing uneven cooking. Fix: Cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces so everything cooks evenly.
• Mistake: Adding raw garlic directly to the cold sauce. Fix: Let the sauce sit for 10 minutes after mixing to mellow the garlic’s sharpness.
• Mistake: Serving the bowls immediately without resting the chicken. Fix: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the entire dish. Fix: Season each component—chicken, broccoli, and sauce—generously with salt and pepper.
• Mistake: Using low-quality olive oil that smokes on the grill. Fix: Choose a high-smoke-point oil like avocado or grapeseed for grilling.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain texture.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty resealable bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat thoroughly in the microwave or on the stovetop until the internal temperature of the grilled chicken reaches 165°F. Add a splash of water or broth if the dish seems dry.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are reheated to a safe temperature.

Conclusion

These Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a quick, delicious, and healthy dinner solution. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments! For more easy meals, check out our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli Recipe or Creamy Chicken Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe.

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FAQs

Can I make the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the creamy garlic sauce in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving with your Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce.

What can I use instead of broccoli in this recipe?

You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables like cauliflower, asparagus, or bell peppers. Adjust the grilling time as needed to ensure they are tender-crisp. This keeps your Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce versatile and fresh.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out on the grill?

Marinate the chicken before grilling and avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures juicy, flavorful chicken for your Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce.