Name: Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1 lime, juiced; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 pound broccoli florets, steamed or roasted; 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa; Lime wedges, for serving

Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 21 reviews

If you’re searching for a feel-good, flavor-packed meal that hits all the comfort food notes without weighing you down, Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are about to become your new favorite go-to. Juicy grilled chicken, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice or quinoa are topped with a lusciously creamy, garlicky sauce that instantly boosts every bite. These bowls are simple enough for busy weeknights, healthy enough for meal prep, and so downright delicious you’ll want them again and again. Trust me, this is a dish you’ll want to have on repeat!

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce serves its own purpose—whether that’s bringing vibrant flavor, adding a pop of color, or making the meal as satisfying as can be. With just a handful of staples and a few flavor boosters, this recipe becomes anything but ordinary.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: The heart of the bowl; thighs add juiciness, while breasts keep things extra lean.
Olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick to the chicken and adds richness for grilling or pan-frying.
Paprika: A smoky-sweet spice that delivers beautiful color and subtle warmth.
Garlic powder: A quick way to boost savory umami into every bite.
Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors in both your chicken and sauce.
Black pepper: A small but mighty addition that complements the other spices perfectly.
Cayenne pepper (optional): For a touch of heat—add more if you love spice!
Lime, juiced: Brightens and tenderizes the chicken with a fresh, zesty punch.
Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the sauce, making it rich and luscious.
Sour cream: Balances the mayo and brings a tangy freshness to the sauce.
Garlic, minced: Stars in the sauce and delivers that unmistakable garlicky kick.
Lemon juice: Adds lift and brightness to the creamy sauce.
Dijon mustard: Rounds out the sauce with a subtle, savory tang.
More salt and black pepper: Because layers of seasoning make every component pop.
Broccoli florets: Roast or steam for a bright green veggie boost and a bit of crunch.
Cooked rice or quinoa: Your hearty, wholesome base—pick your favorite grain or try something new!
Lime wedges: A spritz at the table gives everything a vibrant finish.

How to Make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by tossing your chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, cayenne (if using), and fresh lime juice in a large bowl. This short marinating process goes a long way—it infuses the chicken with zesty, warm flavors and helps keep every bite juicy and tender. If time allows, let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the fridge. The longer soak transforms the chicken into something truly special!

Step 2: Grill or Pan-Fry the Chicken

Once your chicken is marinated and ready, fire up your grill or stovetop pan and cook the chicken over medium-high heat. Aim for 5–7 minutes per side, until you get that irresistible golden char outside and moist tenderness inside. Let the chicken rest a few minutes—this keeps all those flavorful juices where they belong—then slice it into strips that are perfect for topping your bowls.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

While your chicken cooks, quickly whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. This creamy garlic sauce is what sets Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce apart from every other chicken and rice bowl out there. The sauce is silky, garlicky, a little tangy, and totally addictive—don’t be surprised if you want to drizzle it on everything!

Step 4: Steam or Roast the Broccoli

Bring your broccoli florets to life by steaming or roasting them until they’re bright green and just tender. Both methods work beautifully—steaming keeps things light and fresh, while roasting adds a touch of caramelized flavor if that’s your thing. Either way, you’ll get vibrant color and the perfect vegetable contrast for your bowls.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

With all your components ready, it’s time for the fun part: building your Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce! Spoon fluffy rice or quinoa into each bowl, add a pile of lightly cooked broccoli, arrange your sliced chicken on top, and finish with a generous drizzle of creamy garlic sauce. Serve with lime wedges to squeeze over just before digging in. Dinner is served!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

A few well-chosen garnishes take Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce from great to unforgettable. Sprinkle on fresh chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley for a pop of color, add a dash of crushed red pepper if you crave more spice, or toss on a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for crunch. Don’t forget those extra lime wedges for a zesty finish!

Side Dishes

Although these bowls are hearty and satisfying on their own, pairing them with a simple side salad or crisp cucumber slices offers a refreshing contrast. For a more substantial spread, warm naan or pita on the side is perfect for mopping up any extra sauce. Even a light vegetable soup would round out the meal with added comfort.

Creative Ways to Present

You can easily turn Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce into a fun DIY buffet—set out all the components and let everyone build their perfect bowl! For a party or meal prep, layer the ingredients in clear glass meal prep containers to show off the colorful layers, or try arranging them bento box–style for a playful, portable lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers are a breeze with Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce. Store the chicken, broccoli, and grains in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. The garlic sauce will also keep in a sealed jar—just give it a quick stir before using again.

Freezing

For make-ahead meal prep, freeze the sliced chicken and the broccoli in airtight containers (separately from the sauce and grains) for up to two months. Keep in mind that the creamy garlic sauce is best made fresh, as mayonnaise- and dairy-based sauces can separate or change texture after freezing.

Reheating

To reheat, microwave the chicken, broccoli, and grains until just warmed through—add a splash of water or broth to the grains if needed. Drizzle on the fresh garlic sauce after reheating for the best creamy texture, and finish with a squeeze of lime or fresh herbs for brightness.

FAQs

Can I make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce with other proteins?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken for grilled tofu, shrimp, or even steak strips to change things up. The creamy garlic sauce is fantastic with almost any protein, so feel free to experiment based on what you have on hand.

What grains work best in the bowls?

Classic white or brown rice is always a hit, but quinoa, farro, or even cauliflower rice make great bases for Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce. Choose your favorite or use whatever is in your pantry!

Is the creamy garlic sauce spicy?

Not at all! The sauce is garlicky and rich with a lovely tang, but it’s not spicy unless you add extra cayenne or crushed red pepper to the chicken or as a garnish. You’re in full control of the spice level.

Can I meal prep these bowls in advance?

Yes, these bowls are perfect for meal prep. Assemble in advance without the sauce, then store everything in the fridge. Simply add the creamy garlic sauce and a squeeze of lime just before serving for maximum freshness.

How can I make this dairy-free?

To make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce dairy-free, use your favorite plant-based yogurt or vegan mayo for the sauce, and swap the sour cream for a non-dairy alternative. The flavor stays just as dreamy!

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a weeknight dinner that’s easy, fresh, and bursting with flavor, make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce your next kitchen adventure. One bite is all it takes to believe just how crave-worthy and customizable these bowls can be. Give it a go and watch these dinner bowls become a happy staple in your home!