The scent of grilled chicken wafting through the air is enough to make anyoneβs mouth water. Picture tender pieces of chicken sizzling on the grill, surrounded by vibrant green broccoli thatβs just waiting to be coated in a rich and creamy garlic sauce. This is not just any dish; this is the ultimate comfort food that also happens to be good for you!
I remember the first time I made these Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce. It was one of those evenings where I wanted something delicious yet simple to prepare after a long day at work. As I plated the colorful bowl, my family gathered around the table and their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning. You could say it was love at first bite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish combines ease of preparation with an explosion of flavors that will delight your taste buds
- Itβs visually appealing and can be customized based on what you have on hand
- Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner!
Sharing this meal always brings smiles; everyone loves it, especially when I whip up extra creamy garlic sauce for dipping!
Essential Ingredients
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts for a filling meal that everyone will enjoy.
- Fresh Broccoli Florets: Choose bright green florets for the best crunch; frozen works too if thatβs all you have!
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances flavor while keeping everything moist.
- Fresh Garlic: Go for whole cloves; fresh garlic adds an irresistible aroma and flavor.
- Sour Cream: This gives our sauce its creamy texture; feel free to substitute Greek yogurt if desired.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese elevates the flavor profile; itβs like magic in a bowl!
- Lemon Juice: A splash of citrus brightens everything up and balances richness beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; donβt skip these key players in enhancing flavor.
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while adding depth to your sauce.
- Dried Italian Herbs: A mix of oregano and basil brings out comforting Mediterranean notes.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Letβs Make it Together
Prep the Chicken: Start by marinading your chicken breasts in olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Let them sit while you prep other ingredients.
Grill Time: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill each breast for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through and juices run clear.
Steam the Broccoli: While your chicken grills away, steam those lovely broccoli florets until they turn bright green and are tender yet crispβabout 4-5 minutes usually does the trick.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sour cream, chicken broth, remaining minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir until warmed through without boiling.
Combine Everything: Slice your grilled chicken into strips or cubes. In bowls, layer your steamed broccoli followed by sliced chicken. Drizzle generously with creamy garlic sauce.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over each bowl before serving. Add an extra squeeze of lemon if youβre feeling zesty!
And there you have itβa deliciously satisfying Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowl with Creamy Garlic Sauce that will have everyone begging for seconds!
You Must Know
- Grilled chicken and broccoli bowls with creamy garlic sauce not only satisfy your taste buds but also make meal prep a delight
- These bowls are colorful, nutritious, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings
- Plus, they freeze well for future enjoyment!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken while you prep the broccoli and garlic sauce. Grill the chicken until golden brown, then sautΓ© the broccoli to retain its vibrant color and crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or use quinoa instead of rice for added texture. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or a squeeze of lemon for zing!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly grilled chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165Β°F
- This prevents overcooking while keeping it juicy and flavorful
- Donβt skip resting time; it allows juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness
The first time I made grilled chicken and broccoli bowls was during a family barbecue, and everyone raved about how delicious they were! It felt great to impress them with such an easy recipe.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw and drain it well before cooking for best results.
What can I substitute for garlic if Iβm allergic?
Try using shallots or roasted garlic for a milder flavor without the allergy risk.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas, and follow the same cooking instructions for delightful results.
Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Savor the deliciousness of grilled chicken and fresh broccoli, all drizzled in a rich creamy garlic sauce. This wholesome meal is perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Fresh broccoli florets
- Olive oil
- Fresh garlic
- Sour cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Lemon juice
- Chicken broth
Instructions
- Marinate chicken breasts in olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat; cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until juices run clear.
- Steam broccoli florets for 4-5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- In a saucepan, combine sour cream, chicken broth, remaining minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper; warm gently without boiling.
- Slice grilled chicken and assemble bowls with steamed broccoli topped with chicken and a generous drizzle of creamy garlic sauce.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and an extra squeeze of lemon if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Customize with your favorite vegetables or use quinoa instead of rice for added texture. Enhance flavors by experimenting with different herbs or spices like smoked paprika.