Fuel your day with these vibrant Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls—a perfect harmony of nutritious ingredients and bold, fresh flavors. This recipe combines juicy, smoky grilled chicken with crisp-tender broccoli, served over a bed of fluffy rice or your favorite grain. Lightly seasoned and packed with protein and fiber, these bowls are an effortless way to enjoy a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a nourishing dinner, this dish brings together convenience, health, and taste in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Light yet satisfying: Nourishing without feeling heavy or greasy
Fast and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes for busy schedules.
Healthy and balanced: High in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
Flavorful grilling: Smoky, juicy chicken pairs perfectly with fresh broccoli.
Versatile base: Serve with rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice to suit your preferences.
Meal prep friendly: Makes great leftovers for lunches throughout the week.
Ingredients for Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls
Juicy grilled chicken breast, perfectly seasoned and packed with protein power. Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! They’re lean, protein-packed, and grill beautifully.
Broccoli florets: Fresh and vibrant, they add a nice crunch and are loaded with nutrients.
Olive oil: This helps to keep the chicken moist and adds a rich flavor to the broccoli.
Garlic powder: A quick way to infuse that delicious garlic flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic.
Onion powder: It complements the garlic and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors of the chicken and broccoli.
Cooked brown rice or quinoa: A hearty base that makes the bowls filling and nutritious.
Plain Greek yogurt: This adds creaminess to the sauce while keeping it healthy.
Mayonnaise: It gives the sauce a rich texture and balances the tanginess of the yogurt.
Minced garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor of the creamy sauce, making it irresistible.
Lemon juice: A splash of acidity brightens the sauce and enhances the overall dish.
Dried dill (optional): A lovely herb that adds a unique flavor twist if you’re feeling adventurous.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences!
How to Make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls
Step 1: Prepare the Grill and Chicken
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken gets those beautiful grill marks and cooks evenly. While the grill heats up, pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This simple seasoning will enhance the chicken’s natural flavors and make it truly delicious.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
Next, grab your broccoli florets and place them in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss them gently to coat. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect char and flavor when grilling. Set the seasoned broccoli aside while the grill finishes heating.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Once the grill is hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts on it. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F for safe eating. This will give you juicy, tender chicken. After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite even more flavorful.
Step 4: Grill the Broccoli
While the chicken rests, it’s time to grill the broccoli. Place the florets on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. Look for a tender texture and slight char on the edges. This adds a delightful smokiness that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and optional dill. Mix everything until smooth and creamy. This sauce is the secret weapon of the dish, adding a rich, tangy flavor that ties all the ingredients together. Adjust the seasoning to your liking, and feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
Step 6: Assemble the Bowls
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Start by dividing the cooked brown rice or quinoa among four bowls. Top each bowl with sliced grilled chicken and the grilled broccoli. Finally, drizzle a generous amount of the creamy garlic sauce over the top. This colorful presentation not only looks appetizing but also makes for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Tips for Success
Always preheat your grill for even cooking and those perfect grill marks.
Let the chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy and tender.
Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture.
Feel free to customize the creamy garlic sauce with your favorite herbs.
For meal prep, store components separately and assemble when ready to eat.
Equipment Needed
Grill: A gas or charcoal grill works great. If you don’t have one, a grill pan on the stovetop will do.
Meat thermometer: Essential for checking chicken doneness. A simple knife can also help if you cut into the chicken.
Mixing bowl: For the creamy garlic sauce. Any bowl will suffice!
Cutting board and knife: To slice the chicken and prep the broccoli.
Variations
Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, tofu, or even tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Grain Alternatives: Use quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice instead of brown rice for a different texture and flavor.
Spicy Twist: Add a dash of sriracha or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the creamy garlic sauce for some heat.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro in the sauce for a fresh flavor boost.
Veggie Medley: Mix in other grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for added color and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with a light side salad for extra crunch.
A chilled glass of lemon-infused water complements the meal beautifully.
For a heartier option, serve with crusty whole-grain bread.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
FAQs about Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls
Can I make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can grill the chicken and broccoli in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them when you’re ready to assemble your bowls. This makes for a quick meal on busy days!
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the sauce?
If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt, you can use sour cream or even a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Just keep in mind that it may slightly change the flavor and texture of the creamy garlic sauce.
How can I make this recipe lower in calories?
To reduce calories, consider using less mayonnaise in the sauce or swapping out the brown rice for cauliflower rice. You can also use skinless chicken thighs for a leaner protein option.
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
While fresh broccoli is ideal for grilling, you can use frozen broccoli in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before seasoning and grilling to avoid excess moisture.
What other vegetables can I add to my Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls?
Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, zucchini, or even asparagus can be great additions. Just season and grill them alongside the chicken and broccoli for a colorful, nutritious meal.
Final Thoughts
Cooking should be a joyful experience, and my Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls embody that spirit. They’re not just a meal; they’re a celebration of flavors and colors that come together effortlessly. Each bite is a reminder that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or time-consuming. Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a solo dinner, these bowls bring satisfaction and nourishment. Plus, the creamy garlic sauce adds a delightful twist that keeps you coming back for more. So fire up that grill and enjoy the simple pleasure of a delicious, homemade meal!
A quick and healthy recipe for Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls topped with a creamy garlic sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total)
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. While the grill is heating, prepare the chicken by patting it dry and seasoning both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Drizzle olive oil over the broccoli florets and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
Once the grill is hot, place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
While the chicken is resting, grill the broccoli for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and dill (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy.
To assemble the bowls, divide the cooked brown rice or quinoa among four bowls. Top each bowl with sliced grilled chicken, grilled broccoli, and a generous drizzle of the creamy garlic sauce.
Notes
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the creamy garlic sauce.
Substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
