Grilled Chicken and Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Introduction

This bowl is a cozy weeknight winner that looks as good as it tastes. Tender grilled chicken meets bright broccoli and a silky garlic cream sauce for a plate that feels special without fuss. Marinating keeps the chicken juicy while a quick sauté keeps the broccoli vibrant and just crisp. If you want a quick recipe to bookmark, try this version of grilled chicken and broccoli bowls for inspiration.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This recipe balances convenience and comfort in one bowl. The short marinade infuses garlic and lemon into the chicken so each bite has bright savory notes. Cooking the chicken on a hot grill gives caramelized edges that contrast nicely with the creamy sauce. Broccoli is sautéed rather than steamed so it keeps texture and color, adding a pleasant snap. Bowls are simple to assemble which makes them perfect for busy nights or an informal dinner with friends.

Flavor and Texture

The garlic cream sauce is the star of the bowl, coating slices of grilled chicken and pooling around florets for a rich, satisfying mouthfeel. Lemon in the marinade cuts through the cream for balance while soy sauce brings a gentle umami depth. Grilled chicken adds smoky char and a meaty counterpoint to the tender broccoli. The contrast between the velvety sauce and bright vegetable keeps the bowl from feeling heavy. Overall the flavors are familiar and comforting with just enough nuance to feel restaurant worthy.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing broccoli)

Step by Step Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken in soy sauce, minced garlic, and lemon juice for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
3. While the chicken grills, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the broccoli for about 5-7 minutes until tender but still vibrant; season with salt and pepper.
4. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream, remaining minced garlic, soy sauce, and any leftover marinade (cooked) until heated through.
5. Slice the grilled chicken and assemble bowls by placing broccoli at the bottom and topping it with sliced chicken. Drizzle creamy garlic sauce on top and serve immediately.

Tips for Best Results

Pat the chicken dry before marinating so the flavors cling and the grill gets a better sear. Keep the broccoli florets roughly the same size so they cook evenly and finish bright green. If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it a little longer or stir in a small splash of cornstarch slurry. For a lighter option, swap half the heavy cream with plain yogurt just before serving to avoid curdling. For another hearty bowl idea, see this chicken and sweet potato bowl for a sweet and savory variation.

Storage and Make Ahead

Cooked chicken and broccoli store well in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the creamy garlic sauce separate and reheat gently on low to preserve its texture. For meal prep, portion rice or greens into containers then add broccoli and chicken, storing sauce in a small jar to pour when ready to eat. To freeze, place chicken and broccoli in a freezer safe container without the sauce and use within two months for best quality.

Final Thought

These bowls are quick comfort food with a fresh feel and flexible components. They travel well from weeknight dinner to a meal prep staple. With minimal prep and big flavor payoff, this is a recipe you will return to again and again.

Conclusion

For the original inspiration and full recipe details, check out Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce …

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