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If you're on the hunt for a weeknight dinner that feels both cozy and nutritious, this grilled chicken & broccoli bowl with creamy garlic sauce is it. It’s one of those magical meals that hits all the right notes—lean grilled chicken, perfectly roasted broccoli, fluffy grains, and a velvety garlic sauce drizzled over the top. Think of it as your go-to answer for when you want a meal that’s wholesome, satisfying, and packed with flavor—without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Inspired by everything from grilled chicken and broccoli restaurant bowls to healthy homemade comfort food, this recipe combines the best parts of takeout and home-cooked goodness. Whether you're counting calories in grilled chicken and broccoli, looking for an oven-grilled chicken and broccoli option, or simply need a new way to make grilled chicken and broccoli with rice, this is your perfect starting point.
🛒 Ingredients for Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Juice of ½ lemon: Optional for brightness
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: For tossing before or after roasting
- 1 cup cooked brown rice, white rice, quinoa, or couscous: Can substitute cauliflower rice for low-carb option
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Optional: Pinch of nutmeg or chili flakes for variation
🔥 How to Make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
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- Step 1: Marinate and Grill the Chicken
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Rub the mixture over the chicken and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor). Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- 🔥 For oven-grilled chicken and broccoli, roast the chicken at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
- Step 2: Roast the Broccoli
- Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Spread out on a lined baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 20 minutes, or until edges are browned and crispy.
- Step 3: Cook the Grains
- While the chicken and broccoli are cooking, prepare your chosen grain according to package instructions. Fluff and keep warm.
- Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant. Pour in the cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
- 🌟 For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes or smoked paprika. For a dairy-free option, try a coconut cream base with roasted garlic.
🥗 How to Assemble Your Chicken & Broccoli Bowls
Spoon a generous scoop of cooked rice or grain into each serving bowl. Layer on the sliced grilled chicken and roasted broccoli. Drizzle everything with warm creamy garlic sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, chopped chives, or even a handful of toasted nuts like almonds or cashews.
🍴 This dish is ideal served warm, but also makes a great chilled grain bowl for meal prep.
🥡 How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Gently warm in the microwave or skillet. Add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Freeze: You can freeze the grilled chicken and grains separately, though the sauce is best made fresh.
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🍴 Serving Ideas and Add-Ons
- A fresh green salad
- Pickled onions or kimchi for acidity
- A drizzle of sriracha or sweet chili sauce
- Breadsticks or naan to mop up the sauce
- Chopped herbs and lemon zest for extra brightness
🔑 Final Thoughts
These grilled chicken & broccoli bowls with creamy garlic sauce bring restaurant-quality flavor to your table without the fuss. They’re everything you want in a home-cooked meal—hearty, wholesome, and completely satisfying. Whether you're watching calories, eating clean, or simply craving something cozy, this bowl delivers.
You’ll love the contrast of juicy grilled chicken, tender-crisp broccoli, and a garlic sauce that you’ll want to pour on everything. From busy weeknights to slow weekend dinners, this dish checks every box.
So go ahead—add this to your rotation and see why it’s one of the best grilled chicken and broccoli recipes you’ll ever try.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
- Yes, you can use leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken—just reheat gently and skip the marinating step.
- Can I make the garlic sauce ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make it a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
- What can I use instead of Parmesan?
- Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or nutritional yeast (for dairy-free) work well.
- Is there a vegan version of this dish?
- Use grilled tofu or chickpeas, swap the sauce with a cashew or coconut cream-based alternative, and skip the Parmesan or use plant-based cheese.
- Can I serve this cold?
- Yes, it makes a delicious chilled grain bowl for lunches. Just store the components separately and assemble when ready.