Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe

If you love vibrant, fresh flavors and dinner bowls that feel like a reward at the end of a busy day, these Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are about to become your go-to meal. Tender grilled chicken, perfectly cooked broccoli, and fluffy rice (or quinoa!) all come together under the embrace of the most irresistible creamy garlic sauce—each bite is truly next-level comfort food.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about how delightfully simple these ingredients are! Each one plays a starring role, adding either tenderness, warmth, or creamy depth to your Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce, and they’re mostly items you probably have on hand.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Both work beautifully—thighs offer a juicier bite, while breasts give you that classic grilled crispness.
• Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps char the chicken to golden perfection.
• Paprika: Brings a warm, smoky note that really plays well with the garlic.
• Garlic powder: Enhances the overall savoriness and builds on the fresh garlic in the sauce.
• Salt and black pepper: These essentials ensure every ingredient’s flavor shines.
• Cayenne pepper (optional): Just a pinch if you love a bit of heat—easy to skip or dial up depending on your spice comfort zone.
• Lime juice: Adds a bright freshness and helps tenderize the chicken.
• Mayonnaise & sour cream: The dream team for making your creamy garlic sauce ultra-lush and tangy.
• Fresh garlic cloves: Because nothing beats the punchy aroma and flavor of real garlic here!
• Lemon juice: Balances richness and makes the sauce sing with citrusy freshness.
• Dijon mustard: For a subtle zip and a hint of complexity in the sauce.
• Broccoli florets: Steam or roast for ultra-green, vitamin-packed goodness (and beautiful color in every bowl).
• Cooked rice or quinoa: Your hefty, hearty base—choose whichever grain makes you happiest.
• Lime wedges: The finishing touch for even more zesty flavor at the table.

Variations

One of the joys of Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce is how endlessly adaptable they are. Personalize each bowl to suit dietary needs, seasonal veggies, or solo cravings with just a few tweaks!

• Swap the Grain: Opt for brown rice, farro, cauliflower rice, or even a bed of salad greens if you want something lighter or gluten-free.
• Add Crunch: Sprinkle with roasted chickpeas, crushed nuts, or crispy fried onions for extra texture.
• Spice it Up: Add sliced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or extra cayenne to make the bowls fiery and bold.
• Veggie Variety: Roasted bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, or snap peas are all stellar additions if you feel like mixing up the broccoli.
• Dairy-Free: Use your favorite vegan mayonnaise and non-dairy sour cream for a totally plant-based creamy garlic sauce.

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

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by tossing your chicken pieces with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, a dash of cayenne (if you crave a little fire), and freshly squeezed lime juice. The marinade works fast—30 minutes at minimum—but if you’ve got the time, an overnight chill makes the flavor even deeper and juicier. This simple prep is the first step to incredibly flavorful grilled chicken!

Step 2: Grill or Sear the Chicken

Once marinated, grill your chicken over medium-high heat (or use a stovetop grill pan or cast iron skillet) until the outside is beautifully charred and the inside is cooked through—about 5–7 minutes per side. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing so all those gorgeous juices stay locked in.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. The sauce should be ultra-creamy with just the right balance of tang and garlicky punch. Adjust lemon, salt, or pepper to taste if you like!

Step 4: Prep Your Veggies & Grain

Steam or roast the broccoli just until bright green and tender-crisp (no soggy veg here!). Meanwhile, get your rice or quinoa fluffy and hot, ready to anchor your bowl. You can absolutely do this part ahead for fast assembly.

Step 5: Assemble and Finish

Grab your favorite bowl, layer in a scoop of warm rice or quinoa, pile on the steamed broccoli, then top with juicy sliced grilled chicken. Finish with a generous drizzle of that dreamy creamy garlic sauce and fresh lime wedges for a pop of citrusy brightness. And just like that, your Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are ready!

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

Garnishes

Give your bowls a finishing flourish with bright, bold garnishes: fresh chopped cilantro, thinly sliced scallions, sesame seeds, or even a pinch of chili flakes all work beautifully. A final squeeze from a wedge of lime right before eating wakes up every flavor!

Side Dishes

While these bowls are a complete meal all on their own, you can easily round things out with garlic naan, pita bread, a crisp cucumber salad, or a handful of toasted pita chips. Each adds a little extra crunch or soak-up-the-sauce appeal.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these bowls into a colorful, interactive dinner by setting out all the components “build-your-own” style—perfect for family meals or casual entertaining. Or, serve the chicken and broccoli atop a big sharing platter with the sauce on the side for easy dipping and drizzling.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken, broccoli, and grains in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the creamy garlic sauce chilled in its own container so you can spoon it on fresh when you’re ready to eat.

Freezing

The grilled chicken and cooked grains freeze nicely—just cool them completely first! Place in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Broccoli can be frozen, but it’s best enjoyed freshly cooked to keep its color and texture. The creamy garlic sauce is best made fresh, as freezing can affect its consistency.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken, broccoli, and rice or quinoa in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot throughout. If your sauce thickens in the fridge, just stir in a splash of water or lemon juice to loosen before drizzling over your bowl.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s just something extra satisfying about a bowl that’s this colorful, nutritious, and downright delicious. I hope you feel inspired to whip up these Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce soon—your taste buds (and your hungry crew) will thank you. Happy cooking, friend!

Print