Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls

Name: Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 cups broccoli florets; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

By Elisa Levine

March 19, 2025

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Imagine sinking your teeth into a bowl bursting with juicy grilled chicken and vibrant green broccoli smothered in a creamy garlic sauce that smells like heaven. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and wraps you in warmth. Picture yourself after a long day, ready to dive into this delightful creation that promises both flavor and comfort.

Now think about those moments at family gatherings when the aroma of grilling fills the air—everyone gathered around the kitchen, anticipating a feast. This is exactly where Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce shines. It’s the perfect meal for casual dinners or festive celebrations alike, making it ideal for impressing friends or simply indulging yourself.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This dish offers effortless preparation while delivering savory flavors that will make your mouth water
It’s visually stunning with colorful ingredients and can be tailored to fit dietary preferences easily
The creamy garlic sauce elevates the entire dish, making it irresistible for everyone at the table
Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekend lunches!

I remember serving these bowls at my last family reunion—everyone raved about them! The combination of flavors made even my picky cousin come back for seconds.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Opt for fresh chicken breasts to ensure tenderness and moisture in every bite.
Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli adds crunch and color; choose bright green florets for best results.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for marinating; it brings out rich flavors in the chicken.
Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic provides an aromatic punch; choose firm cloves for optimal flavor.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce wonderfully rich; feel free to substitute with half-and-half if desired.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds depth; avoid pre-grated options as they lack flavor.
Paprika: Smoked paprika enhances the grilled chicken’s flavor; it’s worth the investment!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all other flavors in this dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. This fragrant mix will infuse your chicken with amazing flavors.

Marinate the Chicken: Add boneless chicken breasts to the marinade. Toss them gently until fully coated. Let them rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—this step enhances tenderness and taste.

Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill each chicken breast for about 6-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You want those beautiful grill marks!

Cook the Broccoli: While the chicken is grilling, steam or sauté fresh broccoli florets until they are vibrant green and tender-crisp—about 4-5 minutes should do it. The bright color means they’re perfectly cooked!

Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce : In a small saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth—add more garlic if you dare!

Assemble Your Bowls : Slice grilled chicken into strips and arrange over a generous serving of steamed broccoli. Drizzle creamy garlic sauce generously over everything—it’s like a warm hug from inside your bowl.

Enjoy this meal right away while it’s hot! Perfectly satisfying on its own or served alongside rice or quinoa.

With every bite of these Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce, you transform an ordinary day into something special—a celebration of flavors that brings joy to your table! Now go ahead and make this delightful dish; I promise it will become one of your favorites!

You Must Know

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a delightful meal prep option
The vibrant colors and fresh aromas make each bowl a feast for the eyes and palate
Plus, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or as a satisfying lunch

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavor, then grill it while steaming the broccoli. Prepare the creamy garlic sauce simultaneously for the best results.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out broccoli for your favorite veggies like bell peppers or snap peas. Experiment with different spices in the marinade to personalize the dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always let your grilled chicken rest before slicing; this keeps it juicy
For extra flavor, try adding lemon zest to the garlic sauce
Use fresh garlic for a more aromatic and flavorful sauce that will impress everyone!

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my first attempt at grilling chicken, where I accidentally set off the smoke alarm—let’s just say my neighbors were not impressed!

FAQs

FAQ

How can I make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls healthier?

Consider using skinless chicken breasts and low-fat yogurt in your creamy garlic sauce.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well; just adjust cooking time slightly for tenderness.

What can I substitute for garlic if needed?

If you’re allergic or dislike garlic, try using shallots or garlic powder as alternatives.

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