Description
Some meals stay with you—not just for their flavor, but for the memories they bring to life. Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls are that kind of dish for me. It takes me back to early spring evenings, when the windows first open after winter and the scent of fresh herbs from the garden drifts into the kitchen. My grandmother would set a big wooden bowl on the counter and start layering grains, freshly grilled meat, and whatever vegetables were in season. The final touch was always a creamy sauce—usually garlic-based—that turned even the simplest ingredients into something we craved.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Juice of 1 lime
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 Tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Bowl Assembly
1 lb broccoli florets
2 cups cooked white rice, brown rice, or quinoa
Olive oil, salt, pepper for roasting
Lime wedges for serving
Optional: fresh parsley or chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne (if you like a bit of heat), lime juice, salt, and pepper. Place your chicken in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If time allows, overnight is best for deeper flavor.2. Grill the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5–7 minutes on each side, depending on thickness. The goal is those perfect charred grill marks while keeping the meat juicy inside. Once done, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.3. Cook the Broccoli
While the chicken grills, toss your broccoli florets with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Roast at 425°F for 12–15 minutes until edges are golden, or steam lightly until vibrant green and just fork-tender.4. Prepare the Garlic Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. You’ll get a tangy, rich sauce with just enough garlic kick to pull the bowl together.5. Assemble the Bowls
Scoop grains into each bowl, followed by a generous serving of roasted broccoli and sliced grilled chicken. Drizzle with creamy garlic sauce and top with a squeeze of lime and your favorite fresh herbs.
Notes
o make dairy-free: substitute sauce with a vegan garlic aioli.
Want it spicier? Add a dash of hot sauce to the garlic cream.
- Prep Time: 10minutes
- Cook Time: 40minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 35g
Keywords: Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls