Imagine biting into tender, juicy grilled chicken nestled among vibrant green broccoli, all drizzled with a creamy garlic sauce that dances on your taste buds. Each mouthful bursts with flavors that will make you wonder if angels have been cooking in your kitchen. This is not just any meal; itβs the kind of dish that makes weeknight dinners feel like gourmet experiences.
Now picture this: youβre hosting friends for dinner, and as you plate these beautiful bowls, they canβt help but drool over the enticing aroma wafting through the air. With every bite, laughter fills the room as everyone shares stories and compliments your culinary prowess. This dish isnβt just food; itβs an experience meant to be savored and shared.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The creamy garlic sauce elevates the grilled chicken to new heights while keeping the prep simple, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Itβs visually appealing, making dinner feel special even on a casual evening.
- The versatility allows for easy substitutions based on what you have at home, ensuring no one goes hungry.
- Plus, itβs a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love!
Ingredients for GRIlled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 pieces should do; adjust based on how many hungry mouths youβre feeding.
- Fresh Broccoli: Look for bright green florets; they add both color and crunch to your bowls.
- Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil brings out the best in your chicken and veggies.
- Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic is key for that aromatic punch in your creamy sauce.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness while adding depth of flavor.
- Cream Cheese: This is what makes your sauce irresistibly creamy and rich.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brings brightness to balance out the richness of the dish.
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 Your Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. A hot surface ensures those beautiful grill marks appear on your chicken and broccoli.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts, then sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper. Feel free to add some dried herbs if youβre feeling fancy!
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Place seasoned chicken breasts onto the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165Β°F (75Β°C). Flip them only once for those lovely grill lines!
Step 4: Grill the Broccoli
While the chicken is grilling, toss broccoli florets in olive oil and a pinch of salt. Place them on a grill-safe pan or directly on the grates during the last few minutes of cooking. Grill until theyβre tender yet crispβabout 4-5 minutes.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, sautΓ© minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant (about one minute). Add chicken broth and let it simmer before stirring in cream cheese until smooth. Finish with lemon juice for that zing!
Step 6: Assemble Your Bowls
Slice grilled chicken into strips and arrange it on plates alongside grilled broccoli. Drizzle each bowl generously with your creamy garlic sauceβdonβt be shy!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your flavorful adventure!
Now youβve got yourself a meal thatβs not only pleasing to look at but also a delight for your taste buds! Your friends might even ask if youβve been secretly taking culinary classes β just smile and say itβs all thanks to this fantastic recipe!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating your chicken for at least 30 minutes to maximize flavor. Grill the chicken until golden brown, then steam the broccoli while preparing the creamy garlic sauce. This sequence ensures everything finishes at the same time, creating a harmonious meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or beef if youβre feeling adventurous! Add some red pepper flakes for heat or toss in roasted nuts for an added crunch. Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to personalize your bowl.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on a stovetop over low heat to maintain that creamy garlic goodness!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For juicy chicken, let it rest after grilling before slicing.
- Use fresh garlic for a punchy flavor boost in the sauce.
- Steam broccoli just until tender; it will retain its bright color and nutrients.
It was one of those evenings where I decided to impress my friends with something new, and they couldnβt stop raving about how delicious this dish turned outβdefinitely a crowd-pleaser!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce?
To prepare Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce, you will need boneless chicken breasts, fresh broccoli, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and your choice of plant-based gelling agents like agar-agar. For the creamy sauce, gather ingredients such as cashews or a dairy-free yogurt alternative to create a smooth texture. These ingredients work together to deliver a delicious meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.
How can I make the sauce for Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls?
To make the creamy garlic sauce for your Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls, start by blending soaked cashews with garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. If you prefer a thicker consistency, add a small amount of agar-agar dissolved in warm water. Blend until smooth and adjust seasoning to taste. This sauce perfectly complements the grilled chicken and broccoli while adding rich flavors to your bowls.
Can I prepare Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls in advance! Grill the chicken and blanch the broccoli ahead of time. Store these components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When youβre ready to eat, simply reheat and drizzle with the creamy garlic sauce. This makes for an easy meal prep option that saves time during busy weekdays while maintaining great flavor.
What are some variations for Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls?
You can customize your Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls by adding various vegetables or grains. Consider incorporating bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added crunch and color. You can also serve this dish over quinoa or brown rice instead of plain rice for more fiber. Experimenting with different herbs and spices can also elevate the flavor profile of the bowls while keeping them healthy and delicious.
Conclusion for GRIlled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce :
In conclusion, Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce offer a delightful combination of flavors and nutrients. By using simple ingredients such as chicken, fresh broccoli, and a flavorful garlic sauce made from cashews or yogurt alternatives, you create a satisfying meal that caters to various dietary preferences. Preparing this dish in advance is easy and allows you to enjoy healthy eating throughout the week without sacrificing taste or quality.

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Author: Adeline
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are the ultimate weeknight delight, combining tender grilled chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, creamy garlic sauce. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also visually stunning, making it perfect for family dinners or impressing guests. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, you can create a gourmet experience at home that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken breasts; season with salt and pepper. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165Β°F (75Β°C).
- Toss broccoli florets in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil; season lightly with salt. Grill on a grill-safe pan or directly on the grates for about 4-5 minutes until tender yet crisp.
- For the sauce, sautΓ© minced garlic in a saucepan with a splash of olive oil until fragrant. Add chicken broth and simmer before stirring in cream cheese until smooth; finish with lemon juice.
- Slice grilled chicken and serve over broccoli, drizzling generously with creamy garlic sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Keywords: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before grilling for enhanced flavor. Customize by swapping chicken for turkey or adding veggies like bell peppers or snap peas. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.