If you’re searching for a meal that’s not only brimming with vibrant flavors but also packs a nutritious punch, you can’t go wrong with Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce. This colorful, satisfying dish brings together tender marinated chicken, crisp broccoli, and nutty whole grains, all unified by a velvety, punchy sauce that’ll have you licking your fork. Whether you need a weeknight dinner or a stellar meal prep option, this recipe delivers the comfort and freshness that makes it an instant favorite.

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts of Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce is how accessible the ingredient list is. Each component works together to layer flavor, add nutrients, and create a bowl you’ll look forward to—without any fussy extras.

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (1 1/2 pounds): The star of the show, providing lean, juicy protein that soaks up smoky grill flavors beautifully.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons + 2 tablespoons separate): Helps the rub stick to the chicken and adds luxurious richness to the sauce.
Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon): Infuses the chicken with a subtle smoky warmth that’s instantly mouthwatering.
Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): A pantry staple that delivers gentle garlicky depth, both in the rub and echoed in the sauce.
Onion Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Brings savory sweetness to highlight the chicken’s natural flavor.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for amplifying every other ingredient.
Fresh Broccoli Florets (4 cups): Offer crunch and vivid green color, and soak up that dreamy sauce like a pro.
Brown Rice or Quinoa (2 cups cooked): The hearty base that anchors each bowl—with bonus points for fiber and protein if you choose quinoa.
Greek Yogurt (1/2 cup, plain): The main creamy, tangy element in your garlic sauce—plus, it adds extra protein.
Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Rounds out the sauce with richness and a smooth finish.
Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons): Lifts everything with zesty brightness and balances all those savory notes.
Minced Garlic (2 cloves): For a bold, aromatic punch that makes the sauce irresistible.
Fresh Parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Adds vibrancy and an herbal pop that ties the whole bowl together.

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

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by grabbing a small bowl and mixing together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This spice blend will coat your chicken breasts, giving them a beautifully flavored crust when grilled. Rub it evenly over each piece, making sure every nook is covered for maximum flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high until it’s good and hot. Lay down your seasoned chicken and grill for 5 to 7 minutes per side. You’re looking for those irresistible grill marks and for the juices to run clear, confirming that the chicken is tender and safely cooked. Once the chicken’s done, let it rest for a short 5 minutes—this keeps it juicy and easy to slice.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

While the chicken is resting, bring a pot of water to a boil or bust out your steamer basket. Toss in the fresh broccoli florets and cook them just until they turn bright green and tender-crisp, about 3 to 4 minutes. The goal is a broccoli that’s vibrant and still has a bit of bite, so your bowls have that ideal crunch.

Step 4: Whisk Up the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a dash of salt and pepper. Whisk until the sauce is completely smooth and flecked with green. This creamy garlic sauce is what pulls every bite together and gives the Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce their signature flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Spoon your cooked brown rice or quinoa into the bottom of each bowl. Layer on the sliced grilled chicken and pile on the warm broccoli florets. Now, give each bowl a luxurious drizzle of your creamy garlic sauce. For a little extra color and flavor, toss on more chopped parsley if you like. You’re ready to dig in!

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

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of a well-chosen garnish! Fresh parsley adds brightness and looks gorgeous against the creamy sauce. You might also like a sprinkle of smoked paprika for color, or even sliced avocado or halved cherry tomatoes for more freshness and nutrition.

Side Dishes

Although Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are hearty on their own, you can never go wrong with a slice of warm whole-grain bread, roasted sweet potatoes, or a crisp green salad on the side for even more veggie goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist on presentation, try serving the bowls layered in wide glass jars for a meal prep grab-and-go, or arrange everything family-style on a big platter so everyone can build their own. You can even tuck the filling into lettuce cups for a fresh, hand-held spin on traditional bowls.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate to maintain the freshest flavors and textures, and you’ll have easy, delicious lunches ready to go.

Freezing

Chicken and rice (or quinoa) freeze quite well, so feel free to portion them into freezer-friendly containers for future meals. For best results, freeze the sauce separately, since sauces made with dairy like Greek yogurt can sometimes separate after thawing.

Reheating

Reheat the bowls in the microwave or on the stovetop until steaming hot, and then add the creamy garlic sauce at the last moment. Give the sauce a stir or quick whisk if it has thickened, and enjoy that fresh-from-the-grill feeling even on your busiest days.

FAQs

What substitutions can I make if I don’t eat dairy?

Absolutely! Just swap the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise for your favorite dairy-free and vegan alternatives. The key flavors from lemon and garlic will still shine through in your creamy garlic sauce.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Definitely! Chicken thighs offer a richer, slightly juicier flavor and work beautifully in Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce. Just grill them a bit longer and make sure they reach a safe internal temperature.

How can I make this recipe low-carb?

If you’re watching carbs, swap the rice or quinoa for cauliflower rice or extra greens. The other elements of the bowl will still make it hearty and satisfying.

What else can I use the creamy garlic sauce for?

This sauce is a delicious multitasker! Try it as a dip for roasted veggies, a spread for sandwiches, or even drizzled over grilled fish or shrimp. You’ll find yourself making extra just to have on hand!

Can I cook the chicken and broccoli in a skillet if I don’t have a grill?

Absolutely! Sear the chicken in a hot skillet until golden and cooked through, and either steam or sauté the broccoli. The dish will still capture the heart of Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce, just with a slightly different cooking method.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce find their way onto my table again and again: they’re fresh, satisfying, and just so easy to love. If you’re craving a meal that’ll delight your taste buds and keep you feeling good, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 23 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a delicious and nutritious meal option. Tender grilled chicken, fresh broccoli, and flavorful garlic sauce come together in a satisfying bowl.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Grilled Chicken:

1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowls:

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning all over the chicken breasts.
Grill the Chicken: Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from the grill and let rest before slicing.
Prepare the Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli until tender-crisp.
Make the Garlic Sauce: Whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Bowls: Divide rice or quinoa between bowls. Top with sliced chicken, broccoli, and drizzle with garlic sauce.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and enjoy!