Savory Grilled Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Are you looking for a quick and flavorful meal to add to your weeknight dinner rotation? Look no further than this mouthwatering recipe for Grilled Chicken with Broccoli. This dish has been a lifesaver for me during busy weeks, offering a nutritious and delicious option that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. The juicy grilled chicken, tender broccoli, and creamy garlic sauce come together to create a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have your taste buds singing.

One of the best things about this Grilled Chicken with Broccoli recipe is its versatility and meal prep-friendliness. You can easily prepare the components ahead of time and store them in the fridge, allowing the flavors to develop even more. The marinade works its magic on the chicken overnight, while the creamy garlic sauce becomes even more flavorful with time. And if you’re looking to switch things up, feel free to customize the recipe by swapping proteins like salmon or tofu, or changing the veggies to suit your preferences. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or throwing together a quick dinner, this recipe has got you covered.

With a perfect blend of protein, veggies, and whole grains, these Grilled Chicken with Broccoli bowls are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The lean chicken provides essential protein, while the broccoli offers a powerhouse of vitamins and fiber. Paired with grains like rice or quinoa and a creamy garlic sauce that’s sure to become a household favorite, this recipe is a winner for anyone looking to eat well without sacrificing flavor. So, fire up the grill, whip up that creamy sauce, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying as it is wholesome.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and easy weeknight dinner solution
• Versatile recipe with adaptable protein and vegetable options
• Ideal for meal prep with components that can be prepared in advance
• Balanced meal providing high-quality protein, fiber, and essential nutrients

Why You’ll Love This Savory Grilled Chicken and Broccoli Recipe Recipe

• Convenience and Speed:
• Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved:
• Adaptable and Versatile:
• Nutritionally Balanced and Health-Conscious:
• Meal Prep Friendly and Make-Ahead Options:

Ingredients for Savory Grilled Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Chicken Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 lime, juiced

Creamy Garlic Sauce Ingredients

• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Bowl Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
• Lime wedges, for serving
• 1 pound broccoli florets, steamed or roasted

Pro Tips for Savory Grilled Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

To keep your grilled chicken juicy, make sure to marinate it for at least 30 minutes and avoid overcooking. Resting the chicken for a few minutes after cooking will help retain its moisture, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.

Prepare the creamy garlic sauce in advance for convenience; it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld together for a more robust taste when drizzled over the chicken and broccoli.

For a dairy-free version of this dish, simply swap out the dairy ingredients in the creamy garlic sauce with vegan alternatives like mayonnaise and sour cream. This modification ensures everyone can enjoy this flavorful meal, regardless of dietary preferences. Additionally, feel free to customize the bowl with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, or asparagus to add variety and enhance both the flavor and texture of the dish.

How to Make Savory Grilled Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Combine chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper in a large bowl. Add lime juice, toss to coat, and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours if desired.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Cook the chicken on a grill or in a pan over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and slightly charred. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl; whisk until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Spoon rice or quinoa into bowls. Add steamed or roasted broccoli and sliced chicken. Drizzle with creamy garlic sauce and serve with lime wedges.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the grilled chicken with broccoli bowls, storing them properly is essential for enjoying them later. To store the components separately, place the grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken marinade enhances the flavor overnight, making the meat more flavorful. The creamy garlic sauce can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for 2-3 days; the flavors meld together, enhancing the sauce. The broccoli and rice can also be stored in airtight containers in the fridge and quickly reheated when you’re ready to assemble the bowls. Having these components ready allows for quick weeknight dinner assembly, ensuring a fresh and delicious meal in minutes.

For long-term storage, you can freeze the grilled chicken (without the sauce) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. The creamy garlic sauce can also be frozen in a sealed container for up to 1-2 months, though note that the texture may slightly change upon thawing. When ready to eat, simply reheat the components and assemble the bowls for a convenient and satisfying meal. Experiment with toppings like avocado slices, nuts, or fresh herbs to enhance the flavors and textures of the dish when serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to switch up the protein in this dish, consider using salmon, shrimp, or tofu instead of chicken for a different flavor profile. These alternatives can offer a variety of textures and tastes while being just as delicious when paired with the creamy garlic sauce and vegetables.

For a dairy-free option, you can easily swap out the mayonnaise and sour cream in the creamy garlic sauce with vegan alternatives. This simple switch allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy the rich and flavorful sauce while keeping the dish entirely dairy-free without compromising on taste or creaminess.

If you’re looking to add more variety to the vegetable component of this meal, try incorporating bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, or asparagus alongside or in place of the broccoli. These vegetables can contribute different colors, flavors, and textures to the dish, enhancing its overall appeal and nutritional value while still pairing well with the grilled protein and creamy garlic sauce.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and interactive serving suggestion, consider assembling a build-your-own grilled chicken and broccoli bowl bar for a casual gathering with friends or family. Set out the grilled chicken, steamed broccoli, cooked rice or quinoa, and the creamy garlic sauce in separate bowls along with various toppings like avocado slices, toasted nuts, fresh herbs, and crusty bread. Let everyone customize their bowls to their liking, creating unique combinations and flavors.

Another creative idea is to turn this recipe into a flavorful and vibrant grilled chicken and broccoli wrap. Fill a large tortilla or flatbread with the grilled chicken, broccoli, rice or quinoa, and a generous drizzle of the creamy garlic sauce. Add some fresh greens like spinach or arugula for extra freshness and roll it up tightly to create a delicious handheld meal. Serve the wraps with a side of sliced bell peppers, carrot sticks, or vegetable chips for a complete and satisfying lunch or dinner option.

FAQs for Savory Grilled Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Can I prepare the garlic sauce in advance?

Yes, the garlic sauce can be prepared up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

What are some alternatives to rice or quinoa for this bowl?

You can use cauliflower rice, farro, or couscous as alternatives to rice or quinoa for this bowl.

Can I make this dish entirely dairy-free?

Yes, simply use vegan mayonnaise and sour cream alternatives for the creamy garlic sauce to make the dish entirely dairy-free.

What are some additional vegetables I can add to this bowl?

Bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, or asparagus make great additions to enhance the flavor and texture of the bowl.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Grilled Chicken with Broccoli recipe is not just a meal but a culinary experience that is bound to delight your taste buds and nourish your body. The simplicity of the ingredients paired with the explosion of flavors from the creamy garlic sauce truly makes this dish a winner for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. The adaptability of this recipe allows you to personalize it to your liking, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these Grilled Chicken with Broccoli bowls offer a delicious and nutritious option that is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. The combination of protein-packed chicken, nutrient-rich broccoli, and the decadent creamy garlic sauce creates a harmony of flavors that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and treat yourself to a satisfying meal that celebrates the beauty of simple, wholesome cooking.

Savory Grilled Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Grilled Chicken and Broccoli Bowl with Creamy Garlic Sauce – A nutritious, flavorful meal that’s quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time30 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings

Ingredients

Chicken Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 lime, juiced

Creamy Garlic Sauce Ingredients

• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Bowl Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
• Lime wedges, for serving
• 1 pound broccoli florets, steamed or roasted

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Combine chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper in a large bowl. Add lime juice, toss to coat, and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours if desired.
2. Cook the Chicken: Cook the chicken on a grill or in a pan over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and slightly charred. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl; whisk until smooth.
4. Assemble the Bowls: Spoon rice or quinoa into bowls. Add steamed or roasted broccoli and sliced chicken. Drizzle with creamy garlic sauce and serve with lime wedges.