Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Some meals become instant family traditions—not because they’re extravagant, but because they’re so deeply satisfying they find their way into regular rotation. Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce is one of those meals. The first time I made it, I was looking for something simple after a long day that still felt like a warm hug in a bowl. It was mid-fall, the kind of evening when the air smells like leaves and you crave something hearty but not heavy. This dish hit every note.

The grilled chicken brings a smoky, tender bite; the broccoli adds a bright crunch; and the creamy garlic sauce… well, that’s the soul of the bowl. Rich, silky, and comforting, it ties everything together with a little tang of lemon and the salty kiss of Parmesan. This recipe quickly became a favorite not just because it’s quick, but because it’s the kind of food that makes you pause, breathe, and feel good—no matter how chaotic the day has been.

It’s a recipe passed between friends and neighbors, often swapped during cozy weekend potlucks or late-night text threads: “You have to try this creamy garlic sauce!” Now I’m passing it to you—with all the heart that went into the very first bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and fuss-free: Ready in under an hour—ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Hearty but healthy: Loaded with lean grilled chicken and vibrant broccoli.
• Customizable: Add rice, quinoa, or your favorite veggies.
• Creamy sauce magic: That garlic-Parmesan combo is unforgettable.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

For the Chicken:

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Broccoli:

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• Pinch of salt

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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

This grilled chicken and broccoli bowl is all about layering flavor. Follow this cozy kitchen guide to bring the dish to life.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, stir together olive oil, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes—perfect time to prep the rest of your ingredients or just take a breather.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6–7 minutes on each side, until you get those beautiful grill marks and the juices run clear. Let it rest before slicing into tender strips.

Step 3: Blanch the Broccoli
Boil a pot of salted water and blanch the broccoli florets for 2–3 minutes. You want them bright green and just crisp-tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Melt the butter in a saucepan. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute. Stir in the cream, then the Parmesan. Let it bubble gently until it thickens, then finish with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when it’s ready.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Fill each bowl with a hearty scoop of broccoli, top with grilled chicken slices, and pour over that velvety garlic sauce. Serve warm, ideally with someone you love nearby.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Let the chicken rest: This keeps it juicy when slicing.
• Want it spicier? Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
• Serving idea: Serve over rice or mashed potatoes for a more filling meal.
• Extra sauce: Make a double batch—it keeps well and works on pasta too!

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten-Free

NOTES:

• This recipe is perfect for meal prep—just store each component separately and combine before reheating.
• If using pre-cooked chicken, skip to the sauce and broccoli steps for an even quicker meal.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (Per Serving):

• Calories: 540
• Protein: 45g
• Carbs: 20g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Thighs add more flavor and stay juicy—just adjust cook time as needed.

Is this kid-friendly?
Very! The creamy garlic sauce is mild and comforting, and you can chop the broccoli smaller for little ones.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Use a plant-based butter and cream, and swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Can I prep it ahead?
Yes. You can make everything up to 3 days ahead and store in the fridge.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Let everything cool completely. Store chicken and broccoli in one airtight container, and the creamy garlic sauce in another. Reheat over low heat to preserve the texture of the sauce.

Related Recipes:

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Chicken Teriyaki Pineapple Bowls
• Avocado Mango Salad with a Zesty Lime Dressing

CONCLUSION:

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce isn’t just a recipe—it’s a moment of peace at the dinner table. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone back for seconds, not just for the flavor but for the comfort it brings. Whether you’re new to cooking or just looking for something soul-warming and quick, this is one meal you’ll reach for again and again.

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