GARLIC CHICKEN BROCCOLI BOWLS

I’ll never forget the first time I tried to make a creamy sauce – it was a disaster! Lumpy, bland, and definitely not something I’d serve to company. But after countless attempts and a ton of recipe tweaking, I finally nailed it. And now, I’m beyond excited to share my perfected version in these incredible Creamy Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls w/ Garlic Sauce. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Creamy Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls w/ Garlic Sauce you’ll ever make!

Creamy Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Garlic Sauce: Your New Weeknight Hero

Okay, friend, let’s be real. Weeknights can be hectic. Between work, kids, errands, and *maybe* a little bit of time to breathe, the last thing you want is a complicated dinner recipe. That’s where these Creamy Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Garlic Sauce come in. They’re quick, easy, incredibly flavorful, and satisfying – everything you need in a weeknight meal! This recipe is like a warm hug in a bowl, and I know you’re going to love it as much as I do.

This isn’t just throwing chicken and broccoli together with some sauce. We’re talking perfectly grilled, juicy chicken, tender-crisp broccoli florets, and a dreamy, garlicky cream sauce that ties it all together. And the best part? You can customize it to your liking! Add your favorite veggies, switch up the protein, or play around with the spices. This recipe is your canvas, so get creative!

Why You’ll Adore This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
• Flavor-Packed: The garlic sauce is seriously addictive.
• Customizable: Make it your own with your favorite ingredients.
• Healthy(ish): Packed with protein and veggies, balanced with creamy goodness.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters will love this one!

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s dive into the heart of the matter: making these delicious bowls. Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through every step, so you can feel confident and have fun in the kitchen. Remember, cooking should be enjoyable, so put on some music, pour yourself a glass of wine (or sparkling water!), and let’s get started!

Part 1: Preparing the Chicken & Broccoli

First, we’ll focus on prepping our star players: the chicken and broccoli. This step is all about getting them ready for the grill and ensuring they’re bursting with flavor.

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. This ensures they cook quickly and evenly on the grill.
2. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
3. Coat the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Make sure every piece is glistening with the flavorful mixture. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be!
4. Prepare the Broccoli: While the chicken is marinating, cut 1 large head of broccoli into small florets. You want them to be bite-sized for easy eating.
5. Blanch the Broccoli (Optional): For extra tender broccoli, blanch the florets in boiling water for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This step is optional, but it helps the broccoli cook evenly on the grill and retain its vibrant green color.

Part 2: Grilling the Chicken & Broccoli

Now for the fun part: grilling! This is where the magic happens, and the chicken and broccoli get those delicious smoky flavors.

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F). If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly distributed and glowing with a white-hot ash.
2. Grill the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers. This makes it easier to handle them on the grill and prevents them from falling through the grates. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The chicken should have beautiful grill marks and be slightly charred around the edges.
3. Grill the Broccoli: Toss the broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Place the broccoli directly on the grill grates. You can use a grill basket if you prefer, but grilling them directly gives them a nice char. Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the broccoli is tender-crisp and slightly charred. The charred bits add a wonderful smoky flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.

Part 3: Whipping Up the Creamy Garlic Sauce

The creamy garlic sauce is the star of this show! It’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. This is the element that truly brings all the flavors together.

1. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. The butter should be shimmering but not browning.
2. Sauté the Garlic: Add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma should fill your kitchen with garlicky goodness!
3. Add the Flour: Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This creates a roux that will help thicken the sauce.
4. Whisk in the Milk: Gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps!
5. Add the Cream Cheese: Stir in 4 ounces of softened cream cheese until melted and smooth. The cream cheese adds richness and tanginess to the sauce.
6. Season the Sauce: Season with 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional). Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
7. Simmer the Sauce: Simmer the sauce for 3-5 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
8. Add Parmesan Cheese (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor, stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Part 4: Assembling Your Bowls

Finally, it’s time to assemble your bowls and enjoy the fruits of your labor! This is the best part, when all the individual components come together to create a truly satisfying meal.

1. Prepare Your Base: Cook your choice of rice, quinoa, or other grain according to package directions. This will be the base of your bowls.
2. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked grain among bowls. Top with the grilled chicken and broccoli.
3. Drizzle with Sauce: Generously drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the chicken and broccoli.
4. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
5. Serve & Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Creamy Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Garlic Sauce!

Success Tips for Creamy Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls

Want to ensure your Creamy Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls are a guaranteed success? Here are my top tips for achieving culinary perfection!

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken is dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Get a Good Char on the Broccoli: Don’t be afraid to let the broccoli get a little charred on the grill. It adds a wonderful smoky flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Adjust the Garlic to Your Liking: The recipe calls for 4 cloves of garlic, but you can adjust the amount to your personal preference. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more!
• Make it Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter, milk, and cream cheese.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily adapt it to your dietary needs and preferences. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Add Different Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the bowls, such as bell peppers, zucchini, onions, or mushrooms.
• Swap the Protein: You can easily substitute the chicken with other proteins, such as shrimp, steak, or tofu. If you’re in the mood for something spicy, try using the chicken from BANG BANG CHICKEN BOWLS instead! The sweet and spicy sauce would be amazing with the creamy garlic sauce.
• Change Up the Sauce: Experiment with different flavors in the sauce. Try adding herbs, spices, or even a splash of wine.
• Make it a One-Pan Meal: For an even easier cleanup, you can cook the chicken and broccoli in a single pan on the grill. I often think about how similar this is to the flavor profiles of ONE-PAN BEEF BROCCOLI TAKEOUT, but with a creamy twist.
• Add Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add more cheese to the bowls, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack. This would be great alongside some BBQ CHICKEN MAC HEAVEN for a truly indulgent meal!
• Make it a Rice Bowl: Serve over your favorite type of rice! This would work perfectly with the rice from the STREET CORN CHICKEN RICE BOWL for a flavor explosion!
• Pasta Power: For something different, try using pasta instead of rice. Thinking about this recipe makes me want to make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo, a similar but still unique take on chicken and broccoli.

Make-Ahead & Storage Instructions

Want to get ahead of the game? These Creamy Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls can be prepped in advance! Here’s how:

• Chicken: The chicken can be marinated for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. You can also grill the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Broccoli: The broccoli can be cut into florets and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also blanch the broccoli ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Sauce: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat before serving.
• Storage: Leftover bowls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

A Recipe for Success and Deliciousness

Here’s the complete recipe, all in one place for your convenience. Print it out, save it to your phone, or just keep it in mind for your next busy weeknight. You’ve got this!

Recipe: Creamy Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Garlic Sauce

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Total time: 30 minutes

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

For the Chicken & Broccoli:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into small florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

For Serving:

• Cooked rice, quinoa, or other grain
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Broccoli: Cut the broccoli into small florets. Blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath (optional).
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Grill the Broccoli: Toss the broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the broccoli directly on the grill grates and grill for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender-crisp.
6. Make the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until thickened. Stir in the Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked grain among bowls. Top with the grilled chicken and broccoli. Drizzle with the creamy garlic sauce. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes (if using).
8. Serve & Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy!

A Final Word from Your Kitchen Confidante

There you have it – my secret recipe for Creamy Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Garlic Sauce! I truly believe this will become a staple in your kitchen, a dish you can rely on for a quick, easy, and utterly satisfying meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment, have fun, and make it your own! Remember, cooking is all about creativity and enjoying the process. So, grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to create something amazing. You’ve got this! And I can’t wait to hear all about your culinary adventures with this recipe!

Lady Maria

Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Bowls

These Creamy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Bowls are a quick and easy weeknight meal packed with flavor. Grilled chicken and tender-crisp broccoli are tossed in a dreamy, garlicky cream sauce and served over your choice of grain for a satisfying and customizable dish.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into small florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
• Cooked rice, quinoa, or other grain
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Red pepper flakes, for garnish optional
• Lemon wedges, for serving optional

Equipment

• Grill
• Grill skewers
• medium bowl
• whisk
• Cutting board
• knife
• medium saucepan
• Spatula
• measuring cups and spoons
• Ice bath (optional)
• Grill basket (optional)
• meat thermometer

Method

 

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Broccoli: Cut the broccoli into small florets. Blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath (optional).
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F).
4. Grill the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Grill the Broccoli: Toss the broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the broccoli directly on the grill grates (or in a grill basket) and grill for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender-crisp.
6. Make the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until thickened. Stir in the Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked grain among bowls. Top with the grilled chicken and broccoli. Drizzle with the creamy garlic sauce.
8. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and red pepper flakes (if using). Serve with lemon wedges, if desired.
9. Serve & Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter, milk, and cream cheese. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. The chicken can be marinated for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator, and the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored for up to 3 days. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to avoid overcooking.