Grilled Chicken Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls Creamy Garlic Sauce are the ultimate weeknight comfort meal that brings together juicy, smoky chicken and vibrant green vegetables in one satisfying bowl. I’ve been making variations of this recipe for over twenty years, and it never fails to bring my family running to the dinner table.

There’s something magical about the way the creamy garlic sauce brings everything together in these bowls. Last Tuesday, I was staring into my fridge wondering what to make for dinner when I spotted some lonely chicken breasts and a head of broccoli. That’s when this recipe was born in my kitchen – a happy accident that’s now become our go-to family favorite.

The beauty of these grilled chicken broccoli bowls lies in their simplicity and flexibility. The paprika-kissed chicken gets perfectly charred on the outside while staying tender and juicy inside. The broccoli maintains that perfect tender-crisp bite that makes each forkful satisfying. And that creamy garlic sauce? It’s pure magic – rich enough to feel indulgent but light enough for a weeknight meal.

You’re going to love how this one comes together!

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls Creamy Garlic Sauce

These bowls have become a staple in my kitchen because they strike that perfect balance between healthy and satisfying. I’ve served this recipe to everyone from picky teenagers to health-conscious friends, and it wins over everyone with its combination of familiar flavors and wholesome ingredients.

• Quick 30-minute meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners
• Incredibly forgiving recipe that works whether you’re a beginner or seasoned home cook
• Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or heat preferences
• Makes excellent meal prep – components store beautifully for up to 4 days
• Balanced nutrition with protein, healthy carbs, and fresh vegetables in every bite
• Comfort food satisfaction without the heavy, sluggish feeling afterward

This grilled chicken broccoli bowls recipe is more than just dinner – it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings the whole family together.

Ingredient Note List

Boneless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: I prefer using thighs for their extra juiciness and flavor, but breasts work beautifully too and cook a bit faster on the grill.

Paprika: This warming spice gives the chicken its gorgeous color and adds a subtle smoky sweetness that pairs perfectly with the creamy garlic sauce.

Fresh Lime Juice: The acidity brightens the entire marinade and helps tenderize the chicken while adding a fresh citrus note that cuts through the richness.

Mayonnaise: I always use real mayonnaise for the sauce base because it creates that luxurious, velvety texture that coats everything perfectly.

Sour Cream: This adds tangy richness to balance the mayo and creates the perfect creamy consistency that doesn’t separate when mixed.

Fresh Garlic: I recommend mincing your own garlic rather than using pre-minced for the best flavor – it makes the sauce taste bright and aromatic.

Dijon Mustard: Just a teaspoon adds depth and helps emulsify the sauce while contributing a subtle sharpness that enhances all the other flavors.

Broccoli Florets: Choose firm, bright green florets and don’t overcook them – they should retain that satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken.

Cooked Rice or Quinoa: I usually go with jasmine rice for its fluffy texture, but quinoa adds extra protein and creates a more complete grain bowl experience.

How to Cook Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls Creamy Garlic Sauce

Step 1. I always start by marinating the chicken because even 30 minutes makes a huge difference in flavor – toss the chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, cayenne, and lime juice until evenly coated.

Step 2. While the chicken marinates, I make the creamy garlic sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until completely smooth.

Step 3. My grandmother always said to let your grill or skillet get properly hot before adding protein, so I heat mine to medium heat and make sure it’s ready before the chicken goes on.

Step 4. I’ve found that chicken cooks best when you don’t move it around – place it on the grill and let it cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes per side until you get those beautiful char marks.

Step 5. The most important step is checking that internal temperature reaches 165°F – I always use a meat thermometer because perfectly cooked chicken makes all the difference in these bowls.

Step 6. While the chicken rests for 5 minutes (this keeps it juicy when sliced), I steam the broccoli florets for exactly 5 minutes to maintain that perfect tender-crisp texture.

Step 7. For assembly, I divide the cooked rice among bowls, arrange the broccoli and sliced chicken on top, then drizzle generously with that luscious creamy garlic sauce and finish with lime wedges.

How to Store & Reheat

I usually store the components of these grilled chicken broccoli bowls separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator, where they stay fresh for up to 3 days. This method keeps the textures perfect and makes reheating much easier.

In my experience, freezing isn’t ideal for this recipe because the broccoli becomes soggy and the creamy sauce can separate when thawed. It’s much better enjoyed fresh or as refrigerated leftovers.

For best results, I recommend reheating the chicken and rice in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, steaming the broccoli briefly to warm it through, and serving with fresh sauce. You can also warm everything together in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking.

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Juicy grilled chicken, tender-crisp broccoli, and a creamy garlic sauce over rice or quinoa. A high-protein, beginner-friendly comfort bowl perfect for weeknights or meal prep.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 bowls

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 540

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 0.5 tsp garlic powder
• 0.25 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper optional
• 1 lime juiced
• 0.5 cup mayonnaise
• 0.25 cup sour cream
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 0.25 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 1 lb broccoli florets steamed or roasted
• 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
• lime wedges for serving

Equipment

• grill
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Steamer basket

Method

 

1. In a large mixing bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Squeeze lime juice over chicken and mix to coat. Marinate for 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
2. Preheat grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until charred and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Steam or roast broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
5. Divide rice or quinoa among 4 bowls. Top with broccoli and sliced chicken. Drizzle with creamy garlic sauce and serve with lime wedges.

Notes

Store components separately in fridge up to 3 days. Not freezer-friendly. Serve fresh for best texture. Try with flatbread or rosé for pairing. Add lime zest to sauce for extra zing.

What to Serve with Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls Creamy Garlic Sauce

Garlic Naan or Flatbread: The soft, pillowy texture is perfect for scooping up extra creamy garlic sauce, and the garlic flavors complement each other beautifully.

Simple Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing salad with rice vinegar dressing provides a crisp contrast to the rich, creamy elements of the bowl.

Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges: The natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken and adds beautiful color and extra nutrients to the meal.

Steamed Edamame: These protein-packed pods make an excellent appetizer or side that keeps the healthy theme going while adding satisfying texture.

Fresh Fruit Salad: In my kitchen, I often serve this with a simple fruit salad featuring pineapple and berries to cleanse the palate after the rich, garlicky flavors.

Iced Green Tea: The clean, slightly astringent flavor cuts through the richness of the creamy sauce and complements the overall healthy vibe of the meal perfectly.

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