If you are craving a dish that combines wholesome, vibrant ingredients with a rich and indulgent sauce, then you cannot miss this Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe. Picture tender, perfectly grilled chicken breasts paired with crisp-tender broccoli and smothered in a luscious, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce that brings everything together in one satisfying bowl. This recipe is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a beautiful balance of protein, veggies, and decadent flavor that feels special yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious flavor and texture profile. From fresh garlic to aromatic Italian seasoning, every component plays a vital role in lifting the dish to new heights.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that grills beautifully and absorbs marinades well.
- Fresh broccoli florets: Adds a vibrant green color and crisp, fresh contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Fresh garlic cloves: Essential for creating the deeply flavorful creamy garlic sauce.
- Heavy cream: Provides the rich, velvety base for the sauce, making each bite indulgent.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty notes and helps thicken the sauce perfectly.
- Extra virgin olive oil: For marinating the chicken and sautéing the garlic, enhancing flavor complexity.
- Salt: Balances and elevates all the flavors in the dish.
- Pepper: Adds a subtle kick and warmth to both the marinade and sauce.
- Italian seasoning: Brings a beautiful herbaceous aroma and depth to the grilled chicken.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing extra virgin olive oil with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat the boneless, skinless chicken breasts thoroughly with this mixture. Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes allows those fresh herbs and spices to seep into the meat, resulting in juicy, flavorful grilled chicken every time.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
While your chicken marinates, steam the fresh broccoli florets until they are tender yet still retain their bright green color, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step ensures the broccoli complements the dish with a satisfying crunch and fresh vegetable flavor without losing its nutrients or vibrancy.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and place the marinated chicken breasts on it. Grill each side for about 6 to 7 minutes until fully cooked, with an internal temperature reaching 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest a few minutes before slicing, which helps keep the meat juicy and tender.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat and gently sauté minced fresh garlic until fragrant, about one minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, whisking continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens to a rich, silky consistency. This luscious sauce is the crowning glory of the entire bowl.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Grab your serving bowls and layer in the sliced grilled chicken and steamed broccoli. Drizzle ample amounts of the creamy garlic sauce over the top. For a heartier meal, you can add a base of cooked rice or quinoa before layering. This creates a balanced plate that’s hearty and comforting.
Step 6: Final Touches
Sprinkle some chopped parsley or an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese on top to add freshness and a hint of color. Serve the bowls warm and prepare to enjoy every delicious bite of this unforgettable Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese elevate the presentation and add layers of fresh herbal flavor. These little touches brighten up your bowl both visually and taste-wise, making it feel restaurant-worthy at home.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with light sides like a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. If you want something more filling, serve alongside garlic bread or a fluffy couscous salad to soak up any extra creamy garlic sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the bowl in a colorful ceramic dish or a rustic wooden bowl for a cozy, inviting vibe. For a fun twist, you can also serve the components deconstructed so everyone can build their own bowls. Adding a lemon wedge on the side invites a bright citrus burst that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover grilled chicken, broccoli, and creamy garlic sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to prevent the broccoli or chicken from getting soggy. This way, the flavors and textures stay fresh.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze this dish, it’s best to freeze the grilled chicken and broccoli separately from the sauce. Place each component in freezer-safe containers and use within 2 months for best flavor. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the grilled chicken and broccoli gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Warm the creamy garlic sauce separately on low heat while stirring frequently to prevent it from breaking. Then combine everything just before serving for that fresh, creamy experience.
FAQs
Can I use different vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! While broccoli pairs beautifully here, you can substitute with asparagus, green beans, or even roasted cauliflower for a delicious twist that still complements the creamy garlic sauce.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free Italian seasoning and verify that your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free.
Can I make the creamy garlic sauce dairy-free?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy cream alternative, and use a dairy-free cheese substitute to keep it creamy and flavorful while accommodating dairy-free diets.
What can I use instead of grilling the chicken?
If grilling is not an option, you can pan-sear the chicken breasts in a hot skillet with olive oil until golden and cooked through, or bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, make sure the juices run clear and there is no pink in the meat when cut.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that blends wholesome ingredients with indulgent flavors beautifully. It’s perfect for a nourishing family dinner or impressing friends with minimal effort. I encourage you to give it a go and enjoy the satisfying harmony of juicy grilled chicken, fresh broccoli, and silky garlic Parmesan sauce all in one bowl!
Print
Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls recipe features juicy, marinated chicken breasts grilled to perfection and paired with tender steamed broccoli. It’s topped with a luscious creamy garlic sauce made from fresh garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. A wholesome, flavorful bowl that can be customized with rice or quinoa for a complete meal, perfect for a nutritious and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Vegetables
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes & Additions
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Cooked rice or quinoa, to serve (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and let the chicken rest for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Steam the Broccoli: While the chicken marinates, steam the broccoli florets until they are tender yet still bright green, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, set aside and keep warm.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and juices run clear. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to preserve juiciness.
- Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese along with salt and pepper to taste, allowing the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Assemble the Bowls: In serving bowls, layer sliced grilled chicken and steamed broccoli. Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce generously over the top. For a heartier meal, add cooked rice or quinoa as a base beneath the chicken and broccoli.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve the bowls warm and enjoy your flavorful and balanced meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for longer than 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) will result in more flavorful meat.
- Be careful not to overcook the broccoli; it should remain vibrant green and slightly crunchy.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream for half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be thinner.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure the Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese don’t contain any additives with gluten.
- Leftover grilled chicken bowls can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
