Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are not just a meal; they’re a flavor-packed adventure that will leave you craving more. Imagine tender, juicy grilled chicken paired with crisp-tender broccoli, all drizzled with a luscious, creamy garlic sauce that ties everything together in perfect harmony.

This dish brings back memories of summer barbecues and quick, healthy dinners after a long day. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even meal-prepped for the week. Every bite offers a symphony of textures and tastes that is both comforting and exciting.

• Effortlessly prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights and quick lunches.
• Features a delectable creamy garlic sauce that elevates the simple grilled chicken and broccoli to gourmet status.
• Visually appealing with vibrant green broccoli and golden-brown chicken, enticing even the pickiest eaters.
• Highly versatile, allowing you to customize with various vegetables or protein sources to suit your dietary needs and preferences.

Ingredients for Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

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

Chicken Breast Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking and easy grilling. Consider pounding them to an even thickness for faster, more uniform cooking.

Broccoli Florets Fresh broccoli florets provide a crisp-tender texture and a healthy dose of vitamins. You can also use frozen broccoli florets, just ensure they are thawed and drained before cooking.

Olive Oil Extra virgin olive oil is used for grilling the chicken and broccoli. It adds flavor and helps prevent sticking.

Garlic Fresh garlic is essential for the creamy garlic sauce, providing a pungent and savory flavor. Mince it finely for the best results.

Chicken Broth Low-sodium chicken broth forms the base of the creamy garlic sauce, adding moisture and depth of flavor. Vegetable broth can be substituted.

Heavy Cream Heavy cream gives the sauce its rich and creamy texture. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream.

Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami flavor to the sauce. Pecorino Romano cheese can also be used.

Lemon Juice Fresh lemon juice brightens the sauce and adds a touch of acidity to balance the richness.

Cornstarch Cornstarch is used to thicken the sauce, ensuring it coats the chicken and broccoli perfectly.

Salt and Pepper Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors of all the ingredients. Adjust to your personal taste.

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

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

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Make sure the grill grates are clean to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Grill the Broccoli

In a bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the broccoli on the grill, either directly on the grates or in a grill basket. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender-crisp and slightly charred.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

While the chicken and broccoli are grilling, prepare the sauce. In a medium saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 5: Simmer the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually whisk the cream mixture into the saucepan and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Finish the Sauce

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Assemble the Bowls

Slice the grilled chicken breasts into strips. Divide the grilled broccoli and sliced chicken among bowls. Drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. Serve immediately.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To nail these fantastic Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce, sear the chicken first to lock in those juices. Then, while the chicken rests, steam or roast the broccoli. Finally, whip up that luscious garlic sauce for a truly harmonious bowl.

Add Your Touch

Feeling adventurous? Swap out the broccoli for cauliflower or Brussels sprouts. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the creamy garlic sauce. And if you’re craving some extra protein, toss in some chickpeas or lentils.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, microwave gently or warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

Here are a few tips to help you master this recipe:

• Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to infuse it with flavor, or even overnight for maximum deliciousness and a tender result.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken; sear in batches to get a beautiful golden-brown crust and avoid steaming.
• Whisk the creamy garlic sauce constantly while it’s cooking to prevent it from scorching, ensuring a smooth, velvety texture.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

My cousin Mark once said my creamy garlic sauce could make cardboard taste good! That’s when I knew I had a winner – these bowls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Conclusion for Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce :

These Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a guaranteed win. It’s quick to make, healthy, and bursting with flavor. The combination of tender grilled chicken, slightly charred broccoli, and that unbelievably creamy garlic sauce makes every bite a delight. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies and seasonings. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a meal prep staple, offering a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!

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FAQs :

Can I use frozen broccoli for the Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a fantastic option, especially when fresh broccoli isn’t readily available. Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before grilling or roasting it. Excess moisture can lead to soggy broccoli, and nobody wants that! I usually toss it with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper before cooking. You can even add a pinch of garlic powder or some red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Using frozen broccoli cuts down on prep time, so you can enjoy your delicious bowl even faster.

What other vegetables can I add to these Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls?

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility! Feel free to get creative and add other veggies you love. Bell peppers (any color!), zucchini, asparagus, or even some sliced mushrooms would be amazing additions. Consider adding some cherry tomatoes for a pop of sweetness. If you are feeling adventurous, try grilling or roasting the vegetables alongside the broccoli and chicken. A colorful array of vegetables not only tastes fantastic but also makes the bowl visually appealing. Don’t be afraid to experiment and create your own veggie masterpiece!

How can I meal prep these Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce?

Meal prepping these bowls is super easy! Grill or bake the chicken and broccoli ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers. Prepare the creamy garlic sauce and store it in its own container. When you are ready to eat, simply assemble the bowls by adding the chicken, broccoli, and a generous drizzle of the sauce. If you prefer warm bowls, you can quickly reheat the chicken and broccoli in the microwave or oven before adding the sauce. Meal prepping makes healthy eating a breeze during busy weekdays.

Can I make the Creamy Garlic Sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! The creamy garlic sauce actually tastes even better after it has had some time for the flavors to meld together. Prepare the sauce a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before serving, give it a good stir to ensure it is smooth and creamy. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency. This little tip makes the whole cooking process even smoother.