Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that feels fresh, wholesome, and just downright delicious, these Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are exactly what you need. This dish brings together tender, smoky grilled chicken and crisp-tender roasted broccoli, nestled on a bed of fluffy grains, all drizzled with a rich, velvety garlic sauce that simply elevates every bite. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures, plus it’s versatile enough for a quick weeknight dinner or to impress guests without breaking a sweat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but play crucial roles in creating layers of flavor and texture in the bowl. Each component adds a unique touch, from the savory grilled chicken to the bright lemon in the broccoli, making this dish a harmonious feast.

• Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless for easy preparation and juicy results when grilled.
• Broccoli florets: Fresh florets roast beautifully to tender-crisp perfection with a touch of bright lemon.
• Cooked grains: Rice, quinoa, or couscous work wonderfully as a hearty base.
• Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic adds that punch of aromatic flavor in the sauce.
• Heavy cream: This makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
• Butter: Helps sauté the garlic and enriches the sauce’s texture.
• Olive oil: Essential for grilling chicken and roasting broccoli for that perfect sear and crisp.
• Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance all elements.
• Lemon juice: Adds brightness and a fresh zing to uplift the broccoli.
• Fresh parsley or chives (optional): For a pop of color and mild herbal note at the end.

How to Make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Grill the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add your favorite spices if you like it bold! Grill the chicken over medium-high heat until it’s cooked through and has those gorgeous grill marks, flipping once to ensure even cooking. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for a juicy, safe-to-eat result.

Step 2: Roast the Broccoli

While the chicken grills, toss your broccoli florets with olive oil, a splash of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Roast them at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes. The broccoli should be crisp-tender with slightly caramelized edges, which add fantastic texture and a subtle sweetness to the bowls.

Step 3: Cook the Grains

Prepare your cooked grains according to package instructions. Whether you’re using rice, quinoa, or couscous, fluff them with a fork once cooked and keep them warm. The grains provide a nutty, soft base that complements the other textures beautifully.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

Now for the magic – the creamy garlic sauce. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and let the mixture simmer gently until it thickens into a smooth, velvety sauce that ties the whole bowl together.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Build your bowls by layering the fluffy grains first, then add sliced grilled chicken and roasted broccoli on top. Finally, drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce and sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives if you’re feeling fancy. The combination of smoky chicken, vibrant broccoli, and luscious sauce makes every bite delightful.

How to Serve Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or chopped chives add a beautiful splash of green and a fresh herbal note that balances the rich sauce. A light sprinkle of crushed red pepper or a squeeze of extra lemon can add a little kick or brightness to your serving.

Side Dishes

If you want to turn this into a more substantial meal or dinner party spread, pair the bowls with a crisp side salad or some garlic bread for extra indulgence. A light cucumber or tomato salad can cut through the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these bowls in rustic wooden bowls or deep plates for a cozy, inviting feel. For a fun twist, use different grains or add roasted nuts for crunch. Offering the sauce on the side lets guests customize their garlic kick, making this dish flexible for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover grilled chicken, broccoli, and grains separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the creamy garlic sauce in another container to avoid it separating.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prep in advance. Freeze chicken and broccoli separately, but be aware that the sauce might change in texture after freezing. It’s best to freeze without sauce and add fresh sauce when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat chicken and broccoli gently in the oven or microwave to keep them tender, then warm the sauce separately over low heat, stirring to bring back its creamy texture. Assemble everything fresh for the best taste and experience.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables besides broccoli?

Absolutely! Cauliflower, asparagus, or green beans work great roasted and complement the creamy garlic sauce wonderfully.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, these bowls are perfect for meal prep as you can store ingredients separately and assemble fresh each day to keep everything tasting great.

Can I make the creamy garlic sauce dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use a plant-based butter alternative. The sauce will still be creamy and flavorful.

What grains work best in these bowls?

Rice, quinoa, couscous, or even farro are fantastic options. Pick your favorite or whatever you have on hand for easy customization.

Can I grill the chicken indoors if I don’t have an outdoor grill?

Definitely! Use a grill pan or broil the chicken in the oven to get similar char and flavor without needing outdoor equipment.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the comfort and flavor of the Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce. From the tender grilled chicken to the fresh roasted broccoli and that luscious garlic sauce, each bite feels like a hug in a bowl. I can’t wait for you to try making this recipe at home and share it with people you love—it’s truly a winner every time.

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