Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a wholesome, flavorful, and satisfying meal that I keep in regular rotation. Juicy grilled chicken paired with tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and a rich, garlicky sauce—all layered into a bowl that’s just as good for lunch as it is for dinner. It’s clean, comforting, and comes together quickly, making it ideal for meal prep or busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe brings together fresh ingredients with bold, comforting flavors. The grilled chicken adds that smoky, charred taste I crave, while the broccoli stays crisp-tender and vibrant. But the real star is the creamy garlic sauce—it ties everything together with richness and a hint of tang. It’s also super customizable; I can swap out grains, toss in extra veggies, or make it spicier if I’m in the mood. Plus, it’s naturally high in protein and feels like a balanced, hearty bowl every time.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the grilled chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Lemon juice (optional for extra flavor)

For the bowls:

• Broccoli florets
• Cooked rice (white, brown, jasmine, or cauliflower rice)
• Olive oil or butter (for sautéing or roasting broccoli)

For the creamy garlic sauce:

• Plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
• Garlic (minced or roasted for milder flavor)
• Lemon juice
• Dijon mustard (optional)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Water or milk (to thin out, if needed)

Directions

1. I marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for at least 15 minutes—longer if I have time.
2. I grill the chicken on an outdoor grill or stovetop grill pan until fully cooked and nicely charred, about 5–7 minutes per side. Then I let it rest before slicing.
3. While the chicken cooks, I steam or roast the broccoli until it’s bright green and tender, but still slightly crisp.
4. I prepare the garlic sauce by whisking together Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. I add a splash of water to loosen the texture if needed.
5. I assemble the bowls by layering rice at the bottom, followed by sliced grilled chicken, broccoli, and a generous drizzle of the creamy garlic sauce on top.
6. I garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of chili flakes if I want a little heat.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 bowls.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

I like to switch up the grain base with quinoa, farro, or couscous depending on what I have. For added crunch, I toss in roasted chickpeas or sunflower seeds. Sometimes I add avocado slices or shredded carrots for extra color and texture. I’ve even used tofu or salmon instead of chicken, and both work beautifully with the creamy garlic sauce.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. To keep things fresh, I store the sauce separately and drizzle it just before serving. For reheating, I microwave the chicken, rice, and broccoli until warm, then add the sauce cold or warmed slightly. It makes an excellent make-ahead lunch that holds up really well.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought garlic sauce?

Yes, when I’m short on time, I’ve used store-bought garlic sauce, but I always find that the homemade version tastes fresher and more balanced.

How do I grill the chicken without a grill?

I use a grill pan or even a regular skillet on the stovetop. I cook the chicken over medium-high heat until it’s charred and cooked through.

What type of rice works best for this bowl?

I usually go with jasmine or brown rice, but any cooked grain will work. Even cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I’ve made the garlic sauce with dairy-free yogurt or a mayo alternative, and it still comes out creamy and flavorful.

How do I keep the broccoli from getting soggy?

I steam or roast the broccoli until it’s just tender. I avoid overcooking it and let it cool slightly before assembling the bowl so it stays fresh.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are one of my go-to meals when I want something nourishing, satisfying, and full of flavor. The combination of textures and the bold, creamy sauce make each bite feel special, even though the whole meal comes together in under 40 minutes. Whether I’m meal prepping or making a weeknight dinner, this recipe never lets me down.

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