If you’re searching for a vibrant, high-protein meal that never fails to hit the spot, Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are calling your name. This dish is a celebration of juicy, smoky grilled chicken, tender greens, nutty whole grains, and the kind of luscious, garlicky sauce that steals the show every single time. The contrast of textures and fresh flavors make it equal parts hearty and wholesome, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, satisfying meal prep lunch, or when you want to impress with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce come together with just a handful of staple ingredients, but every one brings something special to the table—whether it’s bold spice, fresh crunch, or creamy richness. Gather these ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl bursting with texture, flavor, and color!
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts (1 lb): The star of the show, chicken soaks up smoky flavors on the grill and remains juicy inside.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Crisp-tender and bright green, broccoli adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color to every bite.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Provides moisture and richness, and helps the seasonings cling to the chicken beautifully.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Infuses a subtly earthy, smoky depth that transforms the chicken.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Bumps up the savory notes in both chicken and sauce, tying everything together.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances every flavor and keeps everything bright.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds gentle, warming heat that perks up the bowl.
- Cooked brown rice or quinoa (2 cups): The base of your bowl! Nutty, chewy grains make it meal-worthy and extra filling.
- Plain Greek yogurt (1/2 cup): The creamy backbone of the sauce—tangy and protein-rich.
- Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons): Makes the garlic sauce even smoother, giving it an irresistibly rich finish.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Adds zing and brightness to balance the richness of the sauce and the chicken.
- Garlic clove, finely grated (1): Delivers a punch of fresh garlic flavor that makes the sauce irresistible.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon, for sauce): Rounds out the sauce with a little silkiness and shine.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Season the garlic sauce just the way you like it.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Grill the Chicken
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, making sure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor. Lay them on the hot grill and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing—this locks in all the juices and gives you perfectly tender pieces for your bowl.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
While your chicken is cooking, bring a pot of water to a boil or set up your steamer. Blanch or steam the broccoli florets for around 3 to 4 minutes, just until they’re vibrant green and barely tender. You want them with a hint of crunch, not mushy—this helps them stand up as a fresh, bright element alongside the chicken and grains.
Step 3: Whisk Up the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, finely grated garlic, olive oil, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk it all together until smooth and luscious. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed—you want it zippy, savory, and with the perfect garlicky kick. This sauce is honestly so good, you might find yourself making extra for dipping veggies or spreading on sandwiches.
Step 4: Assemble Your Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Divide the cooked brown rice or quinoa among four bowls as your hearty base. Arrange slices of grilled chicken over each bowl, nestle in the broccoli, and then finish with a generous drizzle of that dreamy creamy garlic sauce over the top. Serve immediately for maximum deliciousness—every element shines when it’s freshly cooked and the sauce is cool and tangy.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh, vibrant garnishes is an easy way to make your Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce extra special. A quick dusting of chopped fresh parsley, green onions, or even a handful of toasted sesame seeds or sliced almonds brings a burst of flavor, color, and crunch.
Side Dishes
While these bowls are pretty much a meal in themselves, you can make them even heartier by pairing them with a simple green salad, warm pita bread, or a batch of roasted sweet potato wedges. A chilled cucumber salad or pickled veggies on the side also adds a fun contrast and a pleasing crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fresh take, try serving the bowl deconstructed on a large platter—allowing everyone to build their own masterpiece with chicken, broccoli, grains, and sauce. Or, for meal prep magic, layer the ingredients in glass jars for portable, stunning lunches. Even serving the creamy garlic sauce on the side lets everyone drizzle to their own taste!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, keep all the components separate in airtight containers in the fridge. The chicken and broccoli will stay fresh for up to 3 days, while the sauce can last for the same amount of time—just give it a good stir before serving again. Keeping the sauce separate ensures everything stays crisp and the grains don’t get soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze the grilled chicken and cooked broccoli, but skip freezing the sauce as dairy-based sauces may separate when thawed. To freeze, portion the chicken and broccoli into individual freezer-friendly containers (separately or together), and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and assembling your next bowl.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken and broccoli in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until hot. If the rice or quinoa needs refreshing, add a splash of water before reheating to keep it fluffy. Always add the creamy garlic sauce cold or at room temperature after everything is reheated for the freshest flavor and best texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a wonderful substitute for breasts in Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce—they offer a juicier, more succulent texture and soak up the smoky flavors just as beautifully. Just adjust your grilling time since thighs may require a few minutes longer to cook through.
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt in the sauce?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, plain regular yogurt or even sour cream can step into the role. The sauce will be a bit thinner with regular yogurt, but you’ll still get that tangy, creamy vibe. Dairy-free yogurt works well for a lighter, lactose-free version.
Can I add more veggies?
Definitely! Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are endlessly adaptable. Roasted sweet potatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, snap peas, or even avocado slices all make amazing additions—let your fridge and cravings guide you!
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it’s nearly perfect for meal prep. Since all parts of the bowl can be prepped ahead and stored independently, you can quickly assemble stellar lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just add the sauce right before eating for the freshest flavor.
How can I make it lower in carbs?
For a lower-carb bowl, swap out the brown rice or quinoa for cauliflower rice, leafy greens, or spiralized zucchini. Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are just as delicious this way—fresh, satisfying, and even lighter.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a crave-worthy, nourishing meal that comes together fast and fuels you for hours, these Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a total must-try. They’re fresh, fun, and endlessly customizable—just the kind of dish that earns a permanent spot in your weekly dinner rotation. Happy cooking, and enjoy every garlicky, grilled delicious bite!
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Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 bowls 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a delicious and healthy meal option that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Tender grilled chicken paired with nutritious broccoli and creamy garlic sauce over a bed of rice or quinoa makes for a satisfying and flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Grilled Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Bowls:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove (finely grated)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Grilled Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan. Rub chicken with seasonings and grill until cooked through. Slice and set aside.
- Bowls: Steam or blanch broccoli. Divide rice or quinoa among bowls. Top with chicken and broccoli.
- Creamy Garlic Sauce: Whisk together yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over bowls.
Notes
- You can customize these bowls with additional veggies like sweet potatoes or bell peppers.
- For a lower-carb option, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- The sauce can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
