Description
Make healthy and delicious Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with a creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a protein-packed lunch. Ready in under 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
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1 lime, juiced
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1/4 cup sour cream
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Bowls:
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1 pound broccoli florets, steamed or roasted
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2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
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Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, add the chicken, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
Squeeze the fresh lime juice over the top and toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop deeply.
For even better results, let the chicken marinate overnight.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat.
Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side.
Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure the chicken is cooked through safely.
Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Whisk until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary — sometimes I add a touch more lemon juice for extra brightness.
Keep the sauce chilled until you are ready to assemble the bowls.
Step 4: Prepare the Broccoli and Rice or Quinoa
Steam the broccoli until it is tender but still vibrant green, about 4-5 minutes.
Alternatively, roast the broccoli at 400°F for 15-20 minutes for a slightly charred flavor.
Cook the rice or quinoa according to package instructions if you haven’t already.
Fluff the grains with a fork to keep the texture light and airy.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Divide the rice or quinoa between two large serving bowls.
Top each bowl with a generous helping of steamed or roasted broccoli.
Layer slices of juicy grilled chicken over the vegetables.
Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce generously over the top of everything.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish the bowls with lime wedges for squeezing just before eating.
Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want an extra kick.
Serve immediately while everything is warm and fresh.
Enjoy a hearty, flavorful, and balanced meal that is as satisfying as it is wholesome.