If you’re searching for a vibrant, wholesome meal that packs a punch of flavor and comfort, look no further than this Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe. This dish brings together juicy, perfectly grilled chicken breasts with crisp-tender broccoli, all brought to life by a luscious, garlicky sauce that is irresistibly creamy. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a satisfying dinner, these bowls deliver a nourishing, balanced experience that feels special with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients make all the difference in this recipe; each one plays a crucial role, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that delight your palate.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, easy to grill and soak up flavor.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds vibrant color and a satisfying crunch.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Keeps the chicken juicy and adds a subtle richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate all the components.
- 1 cup sour cream: The creamy base for the sauce, providing tang and silkiness.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds a velvety texture and depth to the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Packs punchy flavor, making the sauce irresistibly aromatic.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Balances richness with brightness and zest.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, herbal note and a pop of green.
How to Make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Season and Preheat
Start by rubbing the chicken breasts with olive oil, then generously season each side with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavors and keeps the chicken moist while grilling. Meanwhile, preheat your grill to get it nice and hot—this will give you those beautiful, flavorful char marks we all love.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill and cook them for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side. The goal is to achieve a golden-brown crust while ensuring the inside is cooked through and juicy. Once done, remove the chicken and let it rest a few minutes before slicing. Resting seals in the juices, making each bite tender and satisfying.
Step 3: Blanch the Broccoli
While the chicken is grilling, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add your broccoli florets and blanch them for 3 to 4 minutes, just until they turn bright green and are slightly tender but still crisp. Drain the broccoli well; this quick cooking method preserves both nutrients and that lovely crunch.
Step 4: Whip Up the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, freshly minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, velvety sauce. This sauce is the magic element that ties all the bowl’s flavors together with its rich, tangy garlic kick.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
Slice your rested grilled chicken into thin strips. Arrange the broccoli and chicken attractively in serving bowls. Generously drizzle your creamy garlic sauce over the top and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that dash of color and freshness.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few garnishes can elevate your bowls both visually and flavor-wise. Freshly chopped parsley adds brightness, while a squeeze of extra lemon juice or some red pepper flakes can bring an exciting contrast to the creamy sauce. It’s all about enhancing your personalized touch.
Side Dishes
This dish smiles on its own but pairs wonderfully with a side of fluffy quinoa, steamed rice, or even a warm crusty bread to soak up every bit of that creamy garlic sauce. Light salads with citrus vinaigrette also complement this bowl beautifully, balancing richness with refreshing crispness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style feast, assemble all ingredients in a large platter with sauces on the side for dipping. Alternatively, layer the chicken and broccoli over a bed of mashed potatoes or couscous to switch up the textures. Serving in mason jars or bento boxes can also make these bowls an appealing grab-and-go lunch option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keep the grilled chicken and broccoli separate from the creamy garlic sauce to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Properly stored, everything stays delicious for up to 3 days.
Freezing
While broccoli tends to soften after freezing, you can freeze the grilled chicken and the sauce separately in freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently to enjoy a convenient meal later without compromising flavor.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy leftovers, warm up the chicken and broccoli in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Add the creamy garlic sauce fresh, as it’s best served cold or at room temperature to keep its texture smooth and luscious.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! While broccoli adds a great crunch and nutrition, feel free to swap it for cauliflower, green beans, or asparagus. Just adjust the blanching time accordingly to keep the veggies perfectly tender.
Is the creamy garlic sauce suitable for making ahead?
Yes, the sauce actually benefits from sitting a few hours or overnight in the fridge, as the flavors blend beautifully. Just give it a good stir before serving.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the sauce?
If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt makes a fantastic substitute. It keeps the sauce creamy while adding protein and a pleasant tang.
Can I make this recipe on a stovetop grill pan?
Certainly! A grill pan works just as well to get those lovely grill marks and caramelization when an outdoor grill isn’t available. Just be sure to preheat the pan well.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
This bowl fits nicely into a keto-friendly diet since it’s low in carbs and high in fat and protein. Just be mindful of the ingredients in the sauce and opt for full-fat versions where possible.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that checks all the boxes: simple to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and utterly satisfying. It’s perfect for sharing around the table or enjoying as a quick, nourishing meal any day of the week. I really can’t wait for you to try it and make it a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
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Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls recipe features juicy, perfectly grilled chicken breasts paired with tender blanched broccoli, all topped with a rich and creamy garlic sauce. It’s a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken & Vegetables
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure a nice sear.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain the broccoli and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Bowls: Slice the rested grilled chicken breasts. Divide the broccoli and chicken between four serving bowls. Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the top and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Make sure to rest the grilled chicken before slicing to retain its juices.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter sauce.
- Use fresh lemon juice to brighten the creamy garlic sauce’s flavor.
- To keep broccoli extra crisp, plunge it into ice water after blanching.
- Adjust garlic quantity to suit your taste preference.
