This grilled chicken and broccoli bowl with creamy garlic sauce is a wholesome, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying lunch. It features smoky grilled chicken, tender roasted broccoli, and fluffy grains, all brought together with a rich, velvety garlic sauce. It's a dish that delivers comfort and nourishment in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatile and great for meal prep
Quick to prepare with minimal cleanup
Balanced with lean protein, veggies, and grains
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or sauces
A family-friendly meal that even picky eaters enjoy

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts
Broccoli florets
Grains of your choice (like rice, quinoa, or couscous)
Garlic
Heavy cream
Butter
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Lemon juice
Optional herbs for garnish (parsley or chives)

Directions

Grill the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. Grill over medium-high heat until fully cooked and lightly charred, flipping once.
Roast the Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets in olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Roast in the oven at 400°F until tender and slightly crispy, about 15-20 minutes.
Cook the Grains: Prepare your chosen grain according to package directions. Fluff and keep warm.
Make the Garlic Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and simmer until thickened.
Assemble the Bowls: In each bowl, layer grains, sliced grilled chicken, and roasted broccoli. Drizzle with the creamy garlic sauce and garnish with fresh herbs.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2

Variations

Vegetarian: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas.
Grain-Free: Use cauliflower rice or a salad base.
Extra Veggies: Add roasted bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
Spicy Twist: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for heat.
Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based cream alternative in the garlic sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or milk to the sauce if it thickens too much.

FAQs

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer it a bit longer or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just thaw and pat dry before roasting.

Is it okay to grill the chicken in a pan?

Absolutely, a grill pan or regular skillet works just fine.

Can I use a different type of cream?

Yes, half-and-half or a plant-based cream can work.

What grains work best?

Rice, quinoa, farro, or couscous are all great options.

How do I know the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F in the thickest part.

Can this be made ahead?

Yes, all components can be cooked ahead and assembled later.

How do I keep the broccoli crisp?

Avoid overcrowding the pan and roast at high heat.

What herbs go well on top?

Fresh parsley, chives, or even a sprinkle of thyme or basil.

Is this meal freezer-friendly?

Yes, though the sauce may need whisking after reheating.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a deliciously simple way to enjoy a well-rounded, homemade meal. Whether you're cooking for yourself or the whole family, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

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Author: Emmily
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2 servings

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Description

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a quick and healthy dinner idea packed with lean protein, roasted veggies, and a rich garlic cream sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for meal prep and weeknight dinners, customizable with grains and vegetables you love.

Instructions

Instructions:

Grill the Chicken:
Season chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional spices. Grill over medium-high heat, flipping once, until cooked through and lightly charred (internal temp: 165°F).
Roast the Broccoli:
Toss broccoli with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Roast at 400°F for 15–20 minutes until crisp-tender.
Cook the Grains:
Prepare grains according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and keep warm.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in cream, season with salt and pepper, and simmer until thickened.
Assemble the Bowls:
In serving bowls, layer grains, sliced grilled chicken, and roasted broccoli. Drizzle with garlic sauce and garnish with herbs.