Looking for a wholesome, satisfying, and flavor-loaded meal that’s also good for you? These Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce check all the boxes. They combine tender, juicy grilled chicken, vibrant green broccoli, and a luscious, tangy garlic sauce for a complete meal in a bowl. Whether you’re planning weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe delivers big flavor without the fuss.
If you love garlic chicken broccoli or crave healthy chicken dinner ideas that are easy yet impressive, this recipe was made for you. It’s packed with protein, balanced with fiber-rich veggies, and finished with a creamy garlic sauce that brings it all together—without weighing you down.
This is the kind of chicken and broccoli dish you’ll come back to again and again, especially if you’re looking to balance nutrition and flavor. Ready to dig in?
Table of Contents
Who Should Try This Chicken and Broccoli Recipe?
This chicken bowl recipe is ideal for:
- Busy professionals or parents who want healthy chicken dinner ideas on the table fast
- Meal preppers looking for high-protein bowls that store well
- Garlic lovers who enjoy a creamy twist on classic pairings like chicken and broccoli
- People watching carbs, calories, or refined sugars
The recipe is simple enough for beginners but tasty enough to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. It’s also a great base for tweaking based on dietary needs or personal preferences.
Love balanced bowls? You might also enjoy our Slow Cooker Chicken, Potatoes, and Green Beans for another simple, one-dish meal idea.
What Makes This a Healthy Chicken Dinner Option?
Many creamy chicken dishes can be loaded with butter and heavy cream, but not this one. By using a lighter creamy garlic sauce and pairing it with grilled chicken and steamed broccoli, you’re getting:
- Lean protein from chicken breast
- Fiber and antioxidants from broccoli
- A balanced sauce made with Greek yogurt and garlic for flavor without the fat
Plus, you can easily customize this bowl with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice to suit your nutrition goals. It’s a perfect choice if you’re following a clean eating plan or just looking for chicken and broccoli recipes that nourish and satisfy.
Overview of Ingredients: Chicken, Broccoli, and Creamy Garlic Sauce
Let’s break down what you’ll need to make these Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls.
For the Chicken and Broccoli
- 1.5 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp paprika (optional, for seasoning)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Base or Add-ins
- Cooked brown rice or quinoa
- Cauliflower rice (for low-carb option)
- Cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, or shredded carrots for extra crunch
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives
- Red pepper flakes
- Grated Parmesan
Craving something equally nutritious for breakfast? Check out our Cottage Cheese Egg Bake for a protein-rich start to your day.
Kitchen Tools Needed to Make This Chicken Bowl Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to cook this dish efficiently:
- Grill pan or outdoor grill
- Medium saucepan or steamer for broccoli
- Small bowl for the garlic sauce
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Tongs or spatula
- Mixing bowls
- Serving bowls
Want a no-grill version? A cast iron skillet or air fryer works great for cooking the chicken indoors.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry, then season both sides with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Let sit for 10 minutes while you prep the sauce.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside in the fridge.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
Step 4: Steam the Broccoli
Bring a pot of water to a boil or use a steamer basket. Steam broccoli florets for about 4–5 minutes until bright green and just tender. Avoid overcooking—they should still have some bite.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Layer cooked rice or quinoa at the bottom of each bowl if using. Add steamed broccoli and grilled chicken. Drizzle with creamy garlic sauce and top with fresh herbs or red pepper flakes.
These bowls pair wonderfully with a side like Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread or a refreshing Cucumber Dill Salad.
How to Make the Best Creamy Garlic Sauce for Chicken
The secret is balance: a little fat (olive oil + mayo), acidity (lemon juice), and bold garlic. Greek yogurt makes it creamy without being too heavy. Make it ahead of time to let the flavors deepen, and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
If you’re a garlic lover, you might also enjoy our Creamy Tuscan Salmon for another garlic-forward dish.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Chicken Every Time
- Let chicken come to room temperature before grilling for even cooking
- Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness (165°F is the sweet spot)
- Let it rest before slicing to retain juices
For another chicken dinner that’s both simple and bold, try our Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken.
Healthy Variations and Recipe Swaps
This dish is highly customizable. Try these swaps:
- Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb bowl
- Swap Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt to make it dairy-free
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers
- Use grilled tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian version
Looking for more meatless options? Try Creamy Marry Me Chickpeas.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation Tips
Serve your bowl warm in a shallow dish to show off the layers. Add a drizzle of garlic sauce over the top for a photo-worthy finish. Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan. For a brunch-style twist, top with a poached egg!
Want to mix things up? Serve the same ingredients wrapped in a flatbread or stuffed into a pita like our Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas.
What to Serve with Garlic Chicken Broccoli Bowls
Here are some great sides and drinks to complement the dish:
- Strawberry Protein Pancakes for a sweet-savory lunch combo
- Roasted Garlic and Herb Whipped Feta as a dip
- Fresh fruit smoothies or flavored sparkling water
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store:
Place leftovers in airtight containers. Keep the sauce separate if possible. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freeze:
You can freeze the grilled chicken and rice, but not the sauce or broccoli. Add fresh veggies and sauce after reheating.
Reheat:
Microwave on medium for 1–2 minutes or warm in a skillet. Add a splash of water to keep it moist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken and Broccoli Recipes
- Overcooking the broccoli: It should stay bright and slightly crisp.
- Dry chicken: Always let it rest and avoid over-grilling.
- Using raw garlic in the sauce: Mince it finely or lightly sauté to mellow the flavor.
- Serving everything cold: Warm chicken and broccoli make the sauce pop.
Frequently Asked Questions About Healthy Chicken Dinner Ideas
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Thighs are juicier and more flavorful but slightly higher in fat.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, grilled tofu, tempeh, or even chickpeas work beautifully.
Is the garlic sauce spicy?
No, it’s creamy and mellow. Add red pepper flakes for heat if you prefer.
How do I meal prep this recipe?
Cook the components in bulk and store in divided containers. Add sauce just before serving.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, steam directly from frozen—just don’t overcook it.
Conclusion + Call to Action: Try It, Share It, Save It
These Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are the ultimate weeknight dinner—healthy, flavorful, and customizable. Packed with lean protein, nutrient-rich broccoli, and a dreamy garlic sauce, they’re as satisfying as they are good for you.
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends, save it for later, and subscribe to the blog for more wholesome dishes like this. Want another meal idea? Try our cozy Creamy Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup next!
PrintGrilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce (A Healthy, Flavor-Packed Dinner)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are the ultimate healthy yet satisfying dinner. Juicy grilled chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and a rich homemade garlic cream sauce come together in one balanced, flavor-packed bowl. Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or weeknight meals, this recipe is high in protein, customizable, and ready to impress.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Bowls:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked rice, brown rice, or quinoa
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (180ml) chicken broth
- ¾ cup (180ml) milk
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp cream cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Marinate chicken: Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken and marinate for 20–30 minutes.
- Grill chicken: Preheat grill or grill pan. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until done. Rest 5 minutes before slicing.
- Cook broccoli: Steam for 4–5 minutes until tender, or sauté in olive oil with a pinch of salt.
- Make sauce: Melt butter in saucepan, sauté garlic 1 minute. Whisk in flour, then gradually add broth and milk until smooth. Simmer until slightly thickened. Stir in cream cheese and Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble bowls: Divide rice among 4 bowls, top with chicken and broccoli, and spoon garlic sauce over everything. Garnish as desired.
Notes
- Flatten chicken breasts for even grilling and juicier results.
- Don’t overcook broccoli — a slight crunch adds contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor.
- Swap rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for lower-carb bowls.
- Sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for 2–3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Healthy, Chicken, Bowl Meals
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: American-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Chicken and Broccoli Bowl, Healthy Chicken Dinner Ideas, Garlic Sauce for Chicken, Meal Prep Chicken Bowls