How to Make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
There’s something utterly comforting about a bowl of grilled chicken and bright, tender broccoli, tucked warmly over a bed of nutty brown rice. As the scent of garlic fills the air while the chicken sizzles on the grill, memories of cozy family dinners flood back. This recipe is one that reminds me of inviting my loved ones over for a casual gathering filled with laughter, delicious food, and the happiness that comes from sharing a meal together.
Whether you’re looking to prepare an easy weeknight dinner or seeking a healthy, delicious option to impress friends, these Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce check all the boxes. Trust me—this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: Whip up a wholesome dinner in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-friendly: Everyone loves a good grilled chicken bowl; it’s a crowd-pleaser!
- Creamy and flavorful: The rich, creamy garlic sauce elevates every bite, making it irresistible.
- Versatile: Substitute brown rice with quinoa, or mix in your favorite veggies for variety!
- Healthy and satisfying: Packed with protein and nutrients from fresh ingredients, it’s a nourishing choice!
What You’ll Need
Gather These Simple Ingredients
For the bowls:
- 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked brown rice (or quinoa)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch of paprika (optional)
For the creamy garlic sauce:
- ½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp light mayonnaise
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1–2 tbsp water (to thin)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s Make It Together
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Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While the grill heats up, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for an added touch of flavor. Grill for about 6–7 minutes per side until fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it into beautiful, juicy strips.
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Steam the Broccoli: While the chicken is doing its thing on the grill, steam your broccoli florets for about 4–5 minutes. You want them to be bright green and just tender, preserving that lovely crunch.
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Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, water, salt, and pepper until it becomes a delightful, creamy consistency. If you prefer it a little thinner, add more water as needed.
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Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked brown rice (or quinoa) evenly among 4 bowls. Top each bowl with the perfectly sliced grilled chicken and steamed broccoli. Just before serving, drizzle generously with that creamy garlic sauce.
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Enjoy!: Gather around the table, dig in, and relish each flavor-packed bite of this wholesome dish!
Delicious Variations to Try
- Zesty Lemon Dill: Add fresh dill to your sauce for a bright, herby twist. It’s a lovely pairing with grilled chicken!
- Sweet Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of sriracha or honey for a sweet and spicy flavor that will make your taste buds dance.
- Nutty Toppings: Sprinkle some toasted almonds or sesame seeds over your bowls for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
- Veggie Medley: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or even roasted carrots for diverse texture and taste. The more colors, the better!
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead: Prep your chicken and sauce in advance, and store everything separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, just steam your broccoli and assemble the bowls for a quick dinner.
- Ingredient Swaps: If you’re out of Greek yogurt, sour cream makes for a tangy substitute. And if you don’t have light mayonnaise, feel free to use your favorite type.
- Rest the Chicken: Letting the chicken rest after grilling keeps it juicy and tender, so don’t skip this step!
- Storage Suggestions: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Nutrition Information per Serving
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 250mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this ahead? Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and just assemble before serving.
- Can I use different ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to swap the chicken for turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- How long does it last? Leftovers can be enjoyed for up to 3 days when stored properly.
A Cozy Closing Note
This Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowl with Creamy Garlic Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s a reminder to gather around the table, to share, and to nourish not only our bodies but our bonds with loved ones. I hope you enjoy this dish as much as I do, creating new memories in your own kitchen. Save this How to Make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce to your recipe board so it’s ready when you need a cozy, nourishing treat! Happy cooking!
Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
For the bowls
- 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked brown rice (or quinoa)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch of paprika (optional)
For the creamy garlic sauce
- ½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp light mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1–2 tbsp water (to thin)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.
- Grill the chicken for about 6–7 minutes per side until fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes and then slice it into strips.
- Steam the broccoli florets for about 4–5 minutes until bright green and tender.
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, water, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- If needed, add more water to thin the sauce.
Assembly
- Divide the cooked brown rice (or quinoa) among 4 bowls.
- Top each bowl with sliced grilled chicken and steamed broccoli.
- Drizzle generously with creamy garlic sauce before serving.
Enjoy
- Gather around the table and enjoy each flavor-packed bite.
