Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are the kind of hearty, balanced meals I keep coming back to. Juicy grilled chicken and tender broccoli sit on a bed of rice or grains, all drizzled with a rich and velvety garlic sauce that pulls everything together. It’s nutritious, satisfying, and loaded with flavor—all in one bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a complete meal that’s simple to prep and packed with flavor. The grilled chicken gives a smoky, savory bite, the broccoli adds a healthy crunch, and the creamy garlic sauce makes it feel indulgent without being heavy. It’s perfect for meal prep, busy weeknights, or anytime I want something nourishing and delicious.

Ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• Broccoli florets

• Olive oil

• Garlic (minced)

• Greek yogurt or sour cream

• Mayonnaise

• Lemon juice

• Dijon mustard

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Cooked rice, quinoa, or grain of choice

• Optional: red pepper flakes, fresh herbs for garnish

Directions

1. I season the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a little garlic.

2. I grill the chicken over medium-high heat for about 6–7 minutes per side until cooked through, then let it rest before slicing.

3. While the chicken cooks, I steam or roast the broccoli until it’s just tender but still vibrant green.

4. For the garlic sauce, I mix Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon, and minced garlic in a bowl. I season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.

5. I spoon cooked rice or quinoa into bowls, then top with sliced chicken and broccoli.

6. I drizzle the creamy garlic sauce generously over the top and garnish with fresh herbs if I have them.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add roasted sweet potatoes or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and color. If I’m in the mood for spice, I stir hot sauce or Sriracha into the garlic sauce. I also swap out the grains—using cauliflower rice for a low-carb version or farro for a nutty bite. For a dairy-free option, I use a cashew-based or vegan mayo/yogurt substitute.

Storage/Reheating

I store the components separately in the fridge for up to 4 days. The garlic sauce keeps well in an airtight container. When I’m ready to reheat, I warm the chicken and broccoli in the microwave or skillet and then assemble everything fresh with the sauce. It’s a great meal prep option that holds up well during the week.

FAQs

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, I bake it at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or until it reaches 165°F internally. Grilling adds extra flavor, but baking works well too.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, I steam or roast it straight from frozen—just be sure to drain any excess moisture for the best texture.

What’s the best grain for this bowl?

I use whatever I have—rice, quinoa, couscous, or farro all work great. I even use cauliflower rice when I want something lighter.

How garlicky is the sauce?

It’s definitely garlicky, but I control the strength by adjusting how much raw garlic I add. Roasted garlic is a great option for a milder flavor.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. I make the sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors get even better over time.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are one of my favorite all-in-one meals—flavorful, fresh, and filling. They’re easy to prep, endlessly adaptable, and just as good for dinner as they are for lunches throughout the week. When I want a wholesome meal that doesn’t skimp on taste, this is my go-to.