As I stood by the grill, the sizzle of chicken filled the air, mingling with the vibrant scent of fresh broccoli—it felt like a culinary celebration right in my backyard. These Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce have become my go-to dish, promised to revive my love for healthy, homemade cooking. Not only are they a low-carb, keto-friendly option, but they’re also a feast for the eyes and the palate. Imagine sinking your fork into flavorful, juicy chicken paired with tender-crisp broccoli, all drizzled in a velvety garlic sauce that elevates each bite to gourmet status. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or an elegant dinner to impress friends, this recipe balances health and taste beautifully. Ready to discover the joy of creating this comforting dish? Let’s dive in! Why Choose Chicken & Broccoli Bowls? Health Benefits: Packed with protein and nutrients, these bowls are a guilt-free indulgence perfect for any meal. Customizable: Swap out broccoli for your favorite veggies like asparagus or green beans, making it versatile for everyone! Quick and Easy: In under 30 minutes, you can serve a delicious and hearty meal that fits into a busy lifestyle. Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for impressing guests at dinner parties or satisfying hungry family members after a long day. Flavor Explosion: The creamy garlic sauce ties everything together, creating a rich, savory experience that elevates the entire dish. Chicken & Broccoli Bowls Ingredients For the Chicken • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – A lean protein that becomes tender and juicy when grilled. • Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – Used to marinate and seal in moisture; avocado oil makes a great alternative. • Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken. • Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Adds a deep, smoky flavor; regular paprika works well if you’re out. • Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon) – Boosts the overall garlic taste; fresh minced garlic can be a delicious substitute. • Onion Powder (1/2 teaspoon) – Complements the garlic; omit for a milder flavor. • Fresh Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon) – Brightens flavors and adds acidity; vinegar could work in a pinch. For the Broccoli • Broccoli Florets – Packed with vitamins and fiber; feel free to swap with cauliflower, carrots, or bell peppers as desired. For the Creamy Garlic Sauce • Mayonnaise (1/2 cup) – Serves as the creamy base; Greek yogurt or plant-based mayo can lighten it up. • Plain Greek Yogurt (2 tablespoons) – Adds tanginess and creaminess; substitute with more yogurt for a richer texture. • Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon) – Introduces a slight zing that elevates the sauce very nicely. • Chopped Fresh Parsley (1 tablespoon, optional) – For a pop of freshness, enhancing visual appeal and flavor. With this comforting combination, you’ll soon be enjoying delicious Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce that are both nourishing and satisfying! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Step 1: Marinate Chicken In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Coat the boneless, skinless chicken breasts thoroughly with this marinade and let them sit for at least 20 minutes—up to overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor. Step 2: Grill Chicken Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the chicken achieves a beautiful char and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use tongs to handle the chicken carefully, ensuring even cooking and that all sides get that delicious grilled taste. Step 3: Rest Chicken After grilling, remove the chicken breasts from the heat and let them rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes. This resting period is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in juicy and tender chicken for your Chicken & Broccoli Bowls. Step 4: Cook Broccoli While your chicken rests, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 3–5 minutes, tossing occasionally until bright green and tender-crisp. Alternatively, steam the broccoli for about 4 minutes if you prefer a different texture. Both methods will bring out the fresh flavors of the broccoli. Step 5: Make Sauce In a bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated. For an extra touch, fold in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley, enhancing the flavor and presentation of your creamy garlic sauce. Step 6: Serve Slice the grilled chicken into strips and arrange them next to the sautéed broccoli in bowls. Generously drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the chicken and broccoli to create a visually appealing and delicious Chicken & Broccoli Bowl. Enjoy this savory meal while it’s warm, and feel free to garnish with additional parsley or lemon wedges for extra zest. Chicken & Broccoli Bowls Variations Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these fun and flavorful twists! Dairy-Free: Use vegan mayo and coconut yogurt instead of traditional mayonnaise and Greek yogurt for a creamy yet dairy-free sauce. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a heat boost that’ll tickle your taste buds. Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or thyme in the marinade for an aromatic twist that brightens up the dish beautifully. Cauliflower Swap: Swap broccoli for cauliflower florets, which roast to a delightful crisp and offer a different taste texture worth exploring. Nutty Crunch: Top the finished bowls with toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce. Extra Veggies: Mix in snap peas or bell peppers alongside broccoli for an explosion of color and additional nutrients. Zesty Lemon: Substitute lemon juice with lime juice in the sauce for a tangy citrus flavor that perfectly complements the chicken. Meal Prep Variation: If you love variety, prepare the base of chicken and veggies and batch-cook different sauces—try the creamy garlic, a tahini sauce, or a light balsamic vinaigrette. These variations can transform your Chicken & Broccoli Bowls into something new every time you make them! For a deliciously different meal, you might also enjoy these Chicken Enchiladas with Sour Cream White Sauce or Butter Chicken Comfort. Happy cooking! Storage Tips for Chicken & Broccoli Bowls Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep the creamy garlic sauce separate to maintain its texture and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze grilled chicken and broccoli in a sealable bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Reheat chicken and broccoli in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or on the stovetop until warmed through. Drizzle with sauce just before serving to keep it fresh and creamy. What to Serve with Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Embark on a culinary adventure with delightful accompaniments that elevate your meal to new heights. Quinoa Salad: A nutty, fluffy addition that complements the dish’s richness while adding texture. Garlic Bread: Slices of crispy, buttery garlic bread provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy sauce. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb, light alternative that soaks up the delicious garlic sauce perfectly. Lemon Wedges: A touch of citrus brightens the meal, enhancing the grilled chicken’s flavors. Green Beans Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans topped with toasted almonds add elegance and a satisfying crunch. Crisp Garden Salad: Fresh greens with a zesty vinaigrette offer a refreshing side to balance the creamy richness. Iced Herbal Tea: A refreshing, light beverage that enhances the meal without overpowering the flavors. Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a silky chocolate mousse brings a sweet ending to the savory experience. Make Ahead Options These Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse for a richer taste. Simply mix together the marinade and coat the chicken, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy garlic sauce can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just be sure to keep it separate from the chicken and broccoli to maintain its creamy texture. When ready to serve, grill the marinated chicken and sauté the broccoli as instructed, drizzling the sauce over the top for a quick, delightful meal that’s just as delicious and satisfying! Expert Tips for Chicken & Broccoli Bowls Perfectly Juicy Chicken: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F for safety and peak juiciness. Resting Time: Remember to let the chicken rest after grilling; this helps retain moisture, making every bite tender. Customize Veggies: Feel free to swap broccoli for your favorite veggies—like asparagus or bell peppers—to make your Chicken & Broccoli Bowls unique and appealing! Sauce Substitutions: If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or a plant-based mayo instead of regular mayonnaise. Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time, as it can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring your bowls are quick to assemble! Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right broccoli? When selecting broccoli, look for vibrant green florets that are firm and compact. Avoid broccoli with dark spots all over or yellowing stems, as these indicate that it’s past its prime. Fresh broccoli should have crisp stalks and a mild, fresh scent. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store your Chicken & Broccoli Bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the creamy garlic sauce separate to prevent it from making the broccoli soggy. This way, you can enjoy the dishes without sacrificing texture or flavor. Can I freeze the grilled chicken and broccoli? Absolutely! To freeze, place the grilled chicken and broccoli in a sealable freezer bag or airtight container, squeezing out as much air as possible. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. What should I do if my chicken is dry after grilling? If your chicken turns out dry, it may have been overcooked. Always use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). To help, marinate it longer next time, and remember to let the meat rest after grilling to lock in those delicious juices! Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Yes! This Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce is keto-friendly and low in carbohydrates, making it great for those watching their carb intake. If you have allergies, substitute the mayonnaise with dairy-free yogurt or vegan mayo to accommodate dietary restrictions. How can I add variety to my Chicken & Broccoli Bowls? Mix it up by substituting broccoli with other colorful veggies like asparagus, green beans, or bell peppers! You can also incorporate legumes, like chickpeas or black beans, for added protein and fiber. Customize the creamy garlic sauce by adding fresh herbs like dill or basil for an exciting twist. Savory Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Delicious Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce, a keto-friendly dish that combines juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and a rich garlic sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: American, HealthyCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts2 tablespoons Olive Oil Avocado oil makes a great alternative.1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika works well if you’re out.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be a substitute.1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder Omit for a milder flavor.1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice Vinegar could work in a pinch.Salt and Black Pepper Essential seasonings.For the BroccoliBroccoli Florets Feel free to swap with cauliflower, carrots, or bell peppers.For the Creamy Garlic Sauce1/2 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt or plant-based mayo can lighten it up.2 tablespoons Plain Greek Yogurt Substitute with more yogurt for a richer texture.1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Introduces a slight zing.1 tablespoon Chopped Fresh Parsley Optional for freshness and visual appeal. Equipment GrillSkilletmixing bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsMarinate the chicken by combining olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Coat the chicken thoroughly and let it sit for at least 20 minutes.Grill the marinated chicken on medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes per side until the temperature reaches 165°F.Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after grilling.Sauté broccoli in a skillet with olive oil for 3–5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, mustard, and season with salt and pepper.Slice the grilled chicken and serve with sautéed broccoli, drizzled with the creamy garlic sauce. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 21gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 100mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 8mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep sauce separate to maintain texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
