Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a wholesome and flavorful dish that combines tender grilled chicken, crisp broccoli, and a rich, creamy garlic sauce. It's a perfect meal for busy weeknights or meal prep, offering a balance of protein and vegetables in a deliciously satisfying bowl.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it's both nutritious and versatile. The grilled chicken provides a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the freshness of the broccoli. The creamy garlic sauce adds a luscious, savory element that ties everything together. Plus, it's easy to customize with different grains or additional vegetables, making it a go-to meal in my household.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Olive oil
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Cayenne pepper (optional)
- Lime juice
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- Mayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Lemon juice
- Dijon mustard
- Salt
- Black pepper
For the Bowls:
- Broccoli florets, steamed or roasted
- Cooked rice or quinoa
- Lime wedges, for serving

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, I combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if I'm using it. I add the chicken and lime juice, tossing to coat. I let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
Cook the Chicken: I grill or pan-fry the chicken over medium-high heat until it's cooked through and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes per side. After cooking, I let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, I whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Assemble the Bowls: I divide the cooked rice or quinoa between bowls, top with the steamed or roasted broccoli and sliced chicken, then drizzle with the creamy garlic sauce. I serve with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: I substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based alternative.
Different Grains: I swap the rice or quinoa with farro or barley for a unique twist.
Spicy Kick: I add more cayenne or chili flakes to the chicken marinade for extra heat.
Additional Vegetables: I include roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or avocado to add more flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

I store the chicken, broccoli, rice, and creamy garlic sauce in separate airtight containers. The chicken and broccoli stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. I reheat the chicken and broccoli in a microwave or on the stove until warmed through. I add the creamy garlic sauce fresh when serving to maintain its smooth texture. If I prefer, I can also freeze the chicken and rice for up to a month, though the broccoli is best consumed fresh.

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

If I like a little heat, I add extra cayenne pepper to the chicken marinade or use a spicy sauce like sriracha in the creamy garlic sauce.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, I can use frozen broccoli, though I recommend steaming or roasting it until tender for the best texture and flavor.

Can I prep this meal ahead of time?

Absolutely! I often marinate the chicken the night before and then grill or cook it the next day. I can also cook the rice or quinoa in advance and store it in the fridge for quick assembly.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, I swap the mayonnaise and sour cream for dairy-free alternatives, such as vegan mayo and sour cream.

What other proteins can I use instead of chicken?

I can substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, steak, or even a plant-based protein like tempeh or tofu for a different take on the dish.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce is an easy, flavorful, and healthy meal that's perfect for any day of the week. Whether I'm making it for a quick dinner or prepping for the week ahead, it's a satisfying dish that I know I'll keep coming back to. With just a few simple ingredients, I can have a balanced meal that's both tasty and nutritious.

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

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Author: Sue
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling, Stovetop
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-Inspired
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a healthy and flavorful weeknight dinner featuring juicy grilled chicken, steamed broccoli, and a zesty homemade garlic sauce. This easy 30-minute meal is perfect for meal prep or busy nights. Keyword: Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Olive oil
Paprika
Garlic powder
Salt
Black pepper
Cayenne pepper (optional)
Lime juice
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
Mayonnaise
Sour cream
Garlic cloves, minced
Lemon juice
Dijon mustard
Salt
Black pepper
For the Bowls:
Broccoli florets, steamed or roasted
Cooked rice or quinoa
Lime wedges, for serving

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Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Add chicken and lime juice. Marinate for 30 minutes to 24 hours.
Cook the Chicken: Grill or pan-fry the chicken over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let rest, then slice.
Make the Garlic Sauce: In a bowl, whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Assemble the Bowls: Divide rice or quinoa between bowls. Top with broccoli and sliced chicken. Drizzle with garlic sauce and serve with lime wedges.