Enjoy Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring or flavorless. These Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls prove that nutritious meals can also be absolutely delicious. Juicy, seasoned chicken breasts are paired with tender-crisp broccoli and drizzled with a creamy, garlicky sauce for a complete and satisfying dinner option.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls

The key to making these Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls a success is using high-quality, flavorful ingredients. Let’s break down the components:

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Broccoli:

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For Serving:

• 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
• Lime wedges

Instructions for Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls

Season the Chicken

Start by rubbing the chicken breasts with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This simple seasoning blend will infuse the chicken with mouthwatering flavor.

Grill the Chicken

Fire up the grill or heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it.

Cook the Broccoli

You can prepare the broccoli in two easy ways: steam it for 4 to 5 minutes until tender-crisp, or roast it at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cooked rice or quinoa between serving bowls. Top with the grilled chicken slices and steamed or roasted broccoli. Generously drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the top. Serve with fresh lime wedges for an extra pop of flavor.

Nutritional Benefits of Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls

Grilled Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build and repair muscle tissue. Broccoli, on the other hand, is a nutritional powerhouse packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The combination of protein-rich chicken and fiber-rich broccoli makes this dish a well-balanced, nutrient-dense meal.

The creamy garlic sauce provides a delicious, flavor-packed way to enjoy your vegetables. Garlic and lemon juice are both known for their anti-inflammatory properties, while the healthy fats from the mayonnaise and sour cream help your body absorb the fat-soluble vitamins in the broccoli.

For an even more nutritious option, consider swapping the rice or quinoa for a lower-carb alternative like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. This will create a Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowl that’s even more keto-friendly and low in carbs.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

These Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls are perfect for meal prep. Cook the chicken and broccoli in advance, then simply assemble the bowls and drizzle with the creamy garlic sauce when ready to serve.

Leftover chicken and broccoli will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The creamy garlic sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored separately for up to a week.

If you’d like to freeze portions of this dish, it’s best to do so before adding the sauce. Freeze the grilled chicken and steamed broccoli together, then thaw and reheat before serving with the freshly made creamy garlic sauce.

Variations and Customizations

While this Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls recipe is delicious as-is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to your taste:

• Protein Alternatives: Try substituting the chicken with grilled or baked tofu, shrimp, or even sliced steak for a different protein source.
• Vegetable Additions: Mix things up by including other roasted or steamed veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini.
• Sauce Variations: Experiment with different sauce flavors by adding herbs, spices, or a splash of hot sauce to the creamy garlic sauce.
• Dietary Restrictions: For a dairy-free or vegan version, use a plant-based mayonnaise and unsweetened coconut or almond milk yogurt in place of the sour cream.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Salad
• Quinoa and Veggie Stir-Fry
• Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli

FAQ about Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls

Can I grill chicken and broccoli together on the same grill?

Yes, you can grill chicken and broccoli together on the same grill, but it’s important to manage cooking times carefully. Chicken breasts typically take longer to cook than broccoli. To ensure even cooking, you can start grilling the chicken first and add the broccoli a few minutes later. If you’re using skewers for the broccoli, consider cutting the broccoli into larger florets to prevent them from falling through the grill grates. To maintain flavor, you can toss the broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling.

How do I prevent the broccoli from getting too mushy when cooking?

To prevent broccoli from becoming mushy, avoid overcooking it. If steaming, aim for about 4 to 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp. If roasting, check for doneness around the 15-minute mark. You can also blanch the broccoli in boiling water for a minute and then immediately transfer it to an ice bath to halt the cooking process, which will help retain its vibrant color and crisp texture.

What are some side dishes that pair well with Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls?

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls can be complemented with various side dishes to enhance the meal. Consider serving a light salad, such as a cucumber and tomato salad, or a refreshing coleslaw. You could also add a grain-based side, like a lemony couscous or a mixed grain salad with herbs. For a heartier option, roasted sweet potatoes or a quinoa salad can round out the meal while keeping it healthy and delicious.

Is it possible to make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls vegan?

Absolutely! To create a vegan version of Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls, substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein such as marinated tofu, tempeh, or grilled portobello mushrooms. For the creamy garlic sauce, you can replace mayonnaise and sour cream with a vegan mayonnaise or a cashew cream made from blended soaked cashews, garlic, lemon juice, and nutritional yeast for added flavor. Pair it with the broccoli and a grain base like quinoa or brown rice, and you’ll have a delicious vegan bowl!

Conclusion

These Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls are a nutritious and flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With tender grilled chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy garlic sauce, this dish checks all the boxes for a satisfying and healthy dinner. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and bold flavors in every bite!

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