There’s a reason chicken-and-broccoli meals have stood the test of time. They’re dependable, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable. But this Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowl with Creamy Garlic Sauce takes that familiar pairing and turns it into something you actually look forward to eating. It’s not bland, it’s not boring, and it definitely doesn’t feel like “diet food.” Instead, it’s balanced, flavorful, and deeply satisfying in a way that works just as well for busy weeknights as it does for make-ahead lunches.

At the heart of this bowl is juicy grilled chicken, lightly charred and seasoned simply so its natural flavor shines. Grilling adds a depth you just can’t get from the oven alone—those golden grill marks bring subtle smokiness and texture that elevate the whole dish. Alongside it sits tender-crisp broccoli, cooked just enough to stay vibrant and fresh while soaking up flavor.

What truly pulls everything together is the creamy garlic sauce. Rich without being heavy, garlicky without being sharp, it drapes over the bowl and transforms simple ingredients into something crave-worthy. It’s the kind of sauce you’ll want to drizzle on everything, from roasted vegetables to wraps and sandwiches. Paired with fluffy rice or grains, this bowl becomes a complete, comforting meal that still feels light and energizing.

This is also a recipe built for real life. You can prep the components ahead of time, mix and match bases, and customize the flavors depending on your mood. Whether you’re feeding a family, cooking for one, or stocking the fridge for the week, these bowls fit right in. They’re wholesome without being restrictive and flavorful without being complicated.

Ingredients:

Boneless skinless chicken breasts
Broccoli florets
Olive oil
Garlic cloves, minced
Lemon juice
Lemon zest
Smoked paprika
Dried oregano
Salt
Black pepper
Cooked white rice or brown rice

Creamy Garlic Sauce:

Greek yogurt
Mayonnaise
Garlic cloves, finely grated
Lemon juice
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper

Instructions:

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Add the chicken breasts and toss until evenly coated. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the broccoli.
Toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat.
Grill the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely charred. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Grill the broccoli in a grill basket or on foil for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender with light char.
While the chicken rests, make the creamy garlic sauce by mixing Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, grated garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Assemble the bowls by adding rice to the base, topping with grilled broccoli and sliced chicken.
Drizzle generously with creamy garlic sauce and finish with fresh herbs or extra lemon if desired.

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Juicy grilled chicken and tender broccoli served over rice and finished with a rich, creamy garlic sauce.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Total Time 35

Servings: 4 bowls

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: American, Mediterranean

Calories: 520

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli

700 g chicken breast boneless, skinless
3 cups broccoli florets
3 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano

Creamy Garlic Sauce

0.75 cup Greek yogurt
0.25 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic finely grated
1 tbsp lemon juice

Base

3 cups cooked rice white or brown

Equipment

Grill or grill pan
Mixing bowls
Knife
Cutting board

Method

Marinate chicken with olive oil, lemon, garlic, and spices.
Grill chicken and broccoli until cooked and lightly charred.
Mix ingredients for creamy garlic sauce until smooth.
Assemble bowls with rice, chicken, broccoli, and sauce.

Notes

Perfect for meal prep—store components separately for best results.

Tips & Tricks

Letting the chicken rest keeps it juicy and tender.
Grate garlic finely for the smoothest sauce texture.
If grilling isn’t an option, a hot skillet works beautifully.

Variations

Swap rice for quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice.
Add roasted sweet potatoes or cherry tomatoes.
Make it spicy with chili flakes or hot sauce in the garlic sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm for dinner or chilled as a lunch bowl.
Pair with pita bread or flatbread on the side.
Turn leftovers into wraps or salads the next day.

Storage Information

Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Reheat chicken and broccoli gently to avoid drying out.
Sauce keeps well refrigerated for up to 5 days.

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs? Yes, they’re even juicier and grill beautifully.
Is this good for meal prep? Absolutely—this recipe was made for it.
Can I make the sauce dairy-free? Use dairy-free yogurt and mayo alternatives.

History / Fun Facts
Chicken-and-broccoli meals gained popularity as a simple, protein-packed combination that fits into many cuisines and lifestyles. Bowl-style meals, meanwhile, reflect a modern approach to eating—balanced, customizable, and visually appealing. This recipe brings the two together with a creamy garlic sauce that gives it restaurant-style appeal without the effort.

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce – Simple, Satisfying, and Meal-Prep Perfect