If you’ve been searching for a delicious, wholesome meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture tender grilled chicken perfectly seasoned, paired with vibrant steamed broccoli, and all brought together by a luxuriously rich and velvety creamy garlic sauce. It’s a bowlful of comfort and nutrition, with each bite bursting with fresh flavors that make you want to come back for more. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to impress friends, this recipe is a winner every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy here—just simple, fresh ingredients that work in harmony to create a dish bursting with gorgeous flavors and textures. Each component plays a crucial role: juicy chicken for protein, broccoli for crunch and color, and creamy garlic sauce to tie everything together in the most delicious way.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose fresh chicken breasts for moist, tender grilled meat without the fuss of bones.
- Fresh broccoli florets: Adds a lovely bright green color and a satisfying crunch to your bowl.
- Fresh garlic cloves: The star ingredient in the sauce, providing that irresistible aromatic punch.
- Heavy cream: Creates the rich and silky base of the creamy garlic sauce.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, savory depth to the sauce that keeps you savoring every bite.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Used for marinating and sautéing, adding a subtle fruity richness.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors perfectly.
- Pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth to the overall taste.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings herbs like oregano and basil into the chicken marinade.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat the chicken breasts thoroughly with this marinade to ensure every bite has layers of flavor. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes—this wait time is totally worth it because the chicken will soak up all those herbal and savory notes, making grilling a pure joy.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
While your chicken marinates, get the broccoli ready by steaming the florets just until tender, about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them bright green and crisp-tender, never mushy, so they keep their texture and vibrant color that elevates the entire bowl.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high, then cook the marinated chicken breasts about 6 to 7 minutes per side. It’s important to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure juiciness and safe eating. After grilling, let the chicken rest a few minutes to lock in the juices, then slice it thinly for serving.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a saucepan, warm a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until it releases its fragrant magic, just about a minute. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer before stirring in grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly into a luscious, velvety coating for your bowl components.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
Grab your favorite serving bowls and start layering with steamed broccoli and sliced grilled chicken. Then, don’t be shy—drizzle the creamy garlic sauce generously over everything. For an extra hearty meal, add a base of cooked rice or quinoa right into the bowl. Finish with optional parsley or extra Parmesan for a fresh, beautiful touch.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a bit more grated Parmesan can transform your presentation and add that little extra punch of freshness or umami. These simple garnishes make your bowl look as amazing as it tastes.
Side Dishes
While these bowls are a complete meal on their own, pairing them with a light side salad or a crisp garlic bread can elevate your dining experience. Something fresh or crunchy complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this recipe in mason jars for picnics or brought-to-work lunches. You can also swap out broccoli for roasted veggies or add a handful of toasted nuts to introduce new textures. The Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is versatile and lends itself well to your creative flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply place any leftover grilled chicken, broccoli, and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate. Ideally, consume within 3 days for the best flavor and freshness.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you separate the components: keep the grilled chicken and steamed broccoli in one container and the creamy garlic sauce in another. Freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Gently warm the chicken and broccoli in the microwave or on the stove until heated through but not overcooked. Reheat the creamy garlic sauce separately on low heat, stirring frequently to maintain its silky texture. Pour the warmed sauce over the chicken and broccoli before serving for that freshly made feeling.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! While broccoli provides a beautiful crunch and color, you can swap in asparagus, green beans, or even roasted bell peppers depending on your preference and what’s in season.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! These bowls hold up really well in the fridge, making them a perfect, flavorful option for meal prepping your lunches or dinners for the week.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can try using half-and-half or a coconut milk cream alternative, though the sauce might not be quite as thick and indulgent.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—165°F ensures your chicken is juicy and safe to eat, with no guesswork needed.
Can I make the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat gently and give it a good stir before drizzling over your bowls.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular. It’s satisfying, full of flavor, and packed with wholesome goodness—all while being easy enough to prepare any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and add this new favorite to your recipe collection!
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Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A delicious and healthy meal featuring tender grilled chicken breasts paired with vibrant steamed broccoli, all topped with a rich and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a balanced dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Vegetables
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Add the chicken breasts and make sure they are evenly coated with the marinade. Cover and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
- Steam the Broccoli: While the chicken is marinating, steam the broccoli florets until they are tender yet still bright green, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, set aside to keep warm.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill each marinated chicken breast for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the meat is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until it becomes fragrant, approximately 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese along with salt and pepper to taste. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Assemble the Bowls: In serving bowls, layer the sliced grilled chicken and steamed broccoli. Drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce. For a more complete meal, you may add cooked rice or quinoa as a base.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve the bowls warm and enjoy a flavorful, balanced meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for longer than 30 minutes can increase flavor but avoid exceeding 2 hours to prevent texture changes.
- Steaming broccoli ensures nutrients and vibrant color are retained.
- Be sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is safely cooked.
- For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but sauce thickness may vary.
- Adding a grain like quinoa or rice creates a more filling, balanced bowl.
- Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
