Grilled Chicken Bowls Recipe – Creamy Garlic Sauce & Healthy Dinner Idea

A bowl filled with grilled chicken slices, steamed broccoli, and rice, drizzled with creamy garlic sauce and garnished with parsley and lemon wedges.
Grilled, garlicky, and packed with protein—this bowl is your new weeknight go-to! 🍗🥦
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Why Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls Are a Weeknight Hero

When life gets busy, you need a dinner that’s quick, wholesome, and satisfying—and that’s exactly what these Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls deliver. With juicy grilled chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a rich, garlicky sauce drizzled over a bed of grains, this dish checks all the boxes: balanced, flavorful, and easy to prep.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, planning your weekly lunches, or just craving something comforting yet healthy, this bowl has your back. It’s endlessly customizable, packed with protein and fiber, and comes together in under an hour. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover grains or veggies.

This is the kind of meal that feels like a treat but fits right into your routine. One bite, and you’ll see why it’s a weeknight staple worth repeating.

What Are Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce?

These bowls are a modern twist on the classic protein-and-veg combo, featuring grilled chicken breast, roasted or steamed broccoli, and a creamy garlic sauce served over your choice of rice, quinoa, or couscous.

Inspired by Mediterranean-style bowls and protein-forward meals, this dish is both comforting and nutrient-dense. The garlic sauce—made with Greek yogurt or cream, Parmesan, and lemon—adds a rich, tangy finish that ties everything together.

Loved for its versatility and bold flavor, this bowl can be dressed up or down depending on your mood. Add extra veggies, swap in cauliflower rice, or spice it up with chili flakes. It’s a flexible, feel-good meal that’s just as great for meal prep as it is for a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredient Breakdown: What You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into building these satisfying bowls:

 Protein:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs for marinade

 Vegetables:

  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • Optional: sliced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini

 Base:

  • 2 cups cooked rice, quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice

 Creamy Garlic Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt or ½ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

 Optional Add-ins:

  • Fresh parsley, basil, or dill
  • Red pepper flakes for heat
  • Roasted garlic or a spoonful of tahini for depth

Tip: Use Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy version of the sauce—it’s creamy without being heavy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and herbs. Add chicken and marinate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 8 hours in the fridge).

2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F). Let rest before slicing.

3. Cook the Broccoli: Steam or roast broccoli until tender-crisp. For roasting, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and bake at 425°F for 15–20 minutes.

4. Make the Garlic Sauce: In a small saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (1–2 minutes). Stir in Greek yogurt or cream, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently until smooth and warmed through.

5. Assemble the Bowls: Divide grains among bowls. Top with sliced grilled chicken and broccoli. Drizzle generously with garlic sauce.

6. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh herbs or chili flakes. Serve warm.

Tip: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.

Taste & Texture Profile

These bowls are a harmony of textures and flavors:

  • Chicken: Juicy and smoky from the grill, with a savory marinade that enhances every bite.
  • Broccoli: Crisp-tender and slightly caramelized if roasted, adding freshness and crunch.
  • Sauce: Creamy and garlicky with a hint of tang from lemon and yogurt, tying everything together.
  • Grains: Soft and hearty, grounding the dish with satisfying substance.

The result is a balanced, crave-worthy bowl that’s rich without being heavy—perfect for fueling your day or winding down with a nourishing dinner.

A bowl filled with grilled chicken slices, steamed broccoli, and rice, drizzled with creamy garlic sauce and garnished with parsley and lemon wedges.

Grilled Chicken Bowls Recipe – Creamy Garlic Sauce & Healthy Dinner Idea

These Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are a wholesome, flavor-packed dinner that’s quick enough for busy weeknights! Juicy grilled chicken, tender-crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice come together under a rich, garlicky cream sauce that ties it all together. It’s a balanced, satisfying meal that’s easy to prep, customizable with your favorite grains or veggies, and perfect for meal prep or family dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Course Healthy Dinner, Meal prep lunch, Protein Bowl
Cuisine Mediterranean-inspired, American fusion
Servings 4 bowls
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Saucepan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Whisk or spatula
  • Steamer or baking sheet (for broccoli)

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Broccoli:

  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (if roasting)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Base:

  • 2 cups cooked rice, quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt or heavy cream
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

  • Red pepper flakes
  • Fresh parsley or dill
  • Roasted garlic
  • 1 tsp tahini or cream cheese for richness

Instructions
 

  • Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, herbs, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 20 minutes.
  • Grill the Chicken: Heat grill or grill pan over medium-high. Cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F). Let rest before slicing.
  • Cook the Broccoli: Steam until tender-crisp, or roast at 425°F for 15–20 minutes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  • Make the Garlic Sauce: In a saucepan, heat olive oil or butter. Sauté garlic for 1–2 minutes. Stir in yogurt or cream, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently until smooth.
  • Assemble the Bowls: Divide grains among bowls. Top with sliced chicken and broccoli. Drizzle with garlic sauce.
  • Garnish & Serve: Add fresh herbs, chili flakes, or lemon zest if desired. Serve warm or chilled.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook chicken—use a thermometer for accuracy.
  • Let chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.
  • Use roasted garlic for a sweeter, deeper sauce flavor.
  • Store components separately for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat gently and add a splash of water to loosen sauce if needed.
  • For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or cashew cream in the sauce.
Keyword broccoli bowl, garlic sauce, Grilled chicken bowl, healthy dinner, meal prep, protein bowl