There’s something incredibly comforting and vibrant about a well-made bowl that brings together protein, fresh veggies, and a luscious sauce. The Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is exactly that kind of dish—packed with tender grilled chicken, perfectly charred broccoli, fluffy rice, and a dreamy garlic sauce that ties everything together beautifully. It’s a colorful, satisfying meal that’s great for any night of the week and will quickly become one of your go-to recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, everyday ingredients come together in this recipe to create a delicious harmony of flavors and textures. Each component plays its part: the chicken brings savory richness, broccoli adds fresh green crunch, and the creamy garlic sauce delivers a zingy smooth finish.
- Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless breasts for lean protein that grills up juicy and flavorful.
- Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance and balance every bite.
- Paprika: Adds a hint of smoky warmth without overpowering the dish.
- Garlic powder: Deepens the garlic flavor subtly throughout the chicken.
- Olive oil: Keeps the chicken and broccoli moist while adding a fruity richness.
- Broccoli florets: Fresh and green, they get a beautiful char that boosts their natural sweetness.
- Cooked rice: White or brown rice works wonderfully as a neutral, comforting base.
- Greek yogurt: The creamy foundation of the sauce, offering tang with protein.
- Mayonnaise: Adds silkiness and body to the garlic sauce.
- Fresh garlic: Finely minced for bold, pungent flavor in the sauce.
- Lemon juice: A bright splash that cuts through the creaminess and refreshes the palate.
- Milk: Helps adjust the sauce to the perfect velvety consistency.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle on top for a fresh, herbaceous finish and beautiful color.
How to Make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this helps them get that perfect sear instead of steaming on the grill. Season both sides generously with half the salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil and rub it all in so every bite is bursting with flavor. This simple seasoning combo really lets the grilled chicken shine.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Heat your grill or grill pan over medium heat—it’s important to let it get good and hot so the chicken develops gorgeous grill marks. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once grilled, remove the chicken and allow it to rest for 5 minutes to keep it juicy when sliced.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
While the chicken is grilling, toss the broccoli florets with the remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can grill them in a grill basket or sauté in a skillet over medium heat. Either way, cook until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green, with some light charring for that smoky flavor, about 5 to 6 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, finely minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and milk until smooth and creamy. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash more milk until it reaches a luscious but pourable consistency. This sauce is where the magic happens—it’s tangy, garlicky, and utterly irresistible.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Divide your cooked rice evenly among four bowls to create a warm and fluffy foundation. Layer on the grilled broccoli and then the juicy sliced chicken breast. Finally, drizzle generously with your creamy garlic sauce. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a burst of color and that fresh herb note to complete the bowl perfectly.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnish to your bowls makes a big difference not just visually but with a punch of flavor. Fresh parsley is a classic, but you can also try a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a handful of chopped green onions. These little touches bring extra brightness and texture to the dish.
Side Dishes
This recipe is hearty enough on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some roasted sweet potatoes. A light soup or crusty bread pairs well too to soak up any leftover creamy garlic sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting, serve this dish buffet-style so everyone can build their own bowls to taste. Layer it beautifully in glass mason jars for meal prep or gifting, or use colorful ceramic bowls to highlight the stunning greens and golden chicken. Presentation makes the meal feel extra special!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners through the week.
Freezing
While the chicken and rice freeze beautifully, the creamy garlic sauce is best stored separately and added fresh after reheating. Freeze the chicken and broccoli in portions for up to 2 months; when ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your chicken and broccoli in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Then add freshly made or well-stirred creamy garlic sauce on top just before serving for that fresh, flavorful bite every time.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap broccoli for grilled asparagus, zucchini, or even bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time so the veggies stay tender yet crisp.
Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it’s fantastic for meal prep! Cook all components ahead and store them separately to keep everything fresh. Assemble the bowls when ready to eat.
Can I make the creamy garlic sauce dairy-free?
You can substitute the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with dairy-free versions or use blended silken tofu for creaminess while keeping the garlic punch intact.
How do I know when the chicken is perfectly cooked?
Using a meat thermometer, look for an internal temperature of 165°F. If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part and ensure the juices run clear with no pink.
What sides pair best with this recipe?
This dish is quite complete on its own but adding a fresh side salad, roasted potatoes, or even a light soup can make your meal even more satisfying and varied.
Final Thoughts
The Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is a shining example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a dish full of warmth, flavor, and nourishment. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or feeding friends, these bowls are a delicious way to keep meals interesting and wholesome. Trust me, once you make this recipe, it’ll be a staple in your kitchen!
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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
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This wholesome and flavorful recipe features juicy grilled chicken breasts paired with tender grilled broccoli and a creamy garlic sauce, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. Perfect for a healthy and satisfying dinner, these bowls balance protein, veggies, and a tangy sauce that elevates the dish with fresh garlic and lemon notes.
Ingredients
Protein and Seasoning
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Vegetables
- 4 cups broccoli florets
Carbohydrates
- 3 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare and Season the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with half of the salt, half of the black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil to coat evenly.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly to retain juices.
- Prepare the Broccoli: While the chicken cooks, toss broccoli florets with the remaining olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Grill the broccoli in a grill basket or sauté in a skillet over medium heat for 5 to 6 minutes, until tender and lightly charred to add smoky flavor.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and milk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the thickness by adding more milk if necessary for desired consistency.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice evenly among four bowls. Top each bowl with the grilled broccoli and sliced chicken. Drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Substitute quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower carb alternative.
- Add sliced avocado or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
