Looking for a quick and tasty meal? You’ve found it! These Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce pack flavor without the fuss. Perfect for a busy weeknight or meal prep. With tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a rich garlic sauce, you’ll create a dish that feels special. I’ll guide you through each step, so let’s dive in and make dinner easy and delicious!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
Creamy Garlic Sauce Ingredients
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
To make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce, you need high-quality ingredients. Start with fresh chicken breasts and vibrant broccoli. The olive oil adds moisture. Salt and pepper highlight the natural flavors.
For seasoning, garlic powder and paprika give the chicken a rich taste. Remember, seasoning is key. It elevates the dish from simple to spectacular.
The creamy garlic sauce is a star. Greek yogurt and mayonnaise create a smooth base. Fresh garlic and lemon juice brighten the sauce. Don’t forget the parsley; it adds a lovely touch.
For the full recipe, check out the ingredients list again and get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
– Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
– Rub the chicken with olive oil and seasoning. I like garlic powder and paprika.
– Grill the chicken until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
Start by heating your grill. Medium-high heat works best. While the grill warms up, take your chicken breasts. Coat them with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub the mix all over the chicken. This adds flavor and helps it cook well.
Once the grill is hot, place the chicken on it. Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes. You want the chicken to reach 165°F (75°C) inside. After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before cutting it. This keeps it juicy.
Cooking the Broccoli
– Bring salted water to a boil.
– Blanch broccoli florets for 3 minutes.
– Drain and set aside.
Next, focus on the broccoli. Fill a pot with water and add salt. Bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the broccoli florets. Blanch them for 3 minutes. This keeps them bright green and tender-crisp. After 3 minutes, drain the broccoli and set it aside.
Making the Creamy Garlic Sauce
– Combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and seasonings.
– Mix until the sauce is smooth.
Now, let’s make the creamy garlic sauce. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir until smooth. This sauce is rich and adds a tasty touch to your bowl.
Now you’re ready to assemble your Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce. Slice the chicken, layer the broccoli, and drizzle on that delicious sauce. Enjoy this healthy meal! For details, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Perfectly Grilled Chicken
– Use a meat thermometer for accurate cooking. This helps ensure you don’t undercook or overcook your chicken.
– Let chicken rest after grilling to retain juices. This step makes your chicken moist and tasty.
Broccoli Cooking Tips
– Blanching preserves color and texture. It helps keep your broccoli bright green and crunchy.
– Avoid overcooking to keep it tender-crisp. This way, you get a nice bite and plenty of nutrients.
Customizing the Sauce
– Adjust garlic and lemon for personal taste. If you love garlic, add more!
– Experiment with herbs for added flavor. Fresh herbs can brighten the sauce and add depth.
These tips will help you make Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce a hit. For the complete recipe, refer to the Full Recipe section.
Variations
Protein Alternatives
If you want to change up the protein in your bowls, you have great options. You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu. Shrimp grills quickly and adds a tasty twist. Tofu absorbs flavors well and is a great vegetarian choice. If you crave something heartier, try grilled steak. It adds a rich taste and pairs well with the creamy garlic sauce.
Sauce Variations
You can have fun with the creamy garlic sauce too. If you want a different flavor, substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or vegan yogurt. This can change the texture and taste a bit. For those who like some heat, add sriracha or hot sauce. It brings a spicy kick that complements the other flavors.
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal more filling, serve it over rice or quinoa. Both options add great carbs and make the meal hearty. If you want some crunch, top your bowls with nuts. Almonds or walnuts work well and add extra nutrients. You can explore these variations to create your perfect bowl. For the full recipe, check out the beginning of the article.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
– Use airtight containers for best preservation.
– Store the chicken, broccoli, and sauce separately. This keeps them fresh and tasty. If you mix them, the sauce can make the chicken soggy.
Freezing
– Freeze grilled chicken for up to 3 months. Wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
– Creamy sauce is best stored fresh; avoid freezing. It can change texture when frozen.
Reheating Tips
– Use a microwave or stovetop to reheat chicken gently. Heat until warm, not hot.
– Reapply sauce after reheating for freshness. This keeps the flavor bright and delicious.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, the chicken can be grilled ahead and stored. Grilling chicken in advance saves time. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat before serving. This makes meal prep easy and quick.
What can I substitute for the Greek yogurt?
You can use sour cream or a dairy-free alternative. Sour cream works well for a similar taste. For a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt. Both will keep the sauce creamy and delicious.
How do I know when the chicken is perfectly grilled?
Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer helps ensure perfect cooking. This temperature keeps the chicken juicy and safe to eat. Letting it rest for a few minutes after grilling is also key.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid mushiness. Frozen broccoli cooks faster than fresh. Blanch it for about two minutes instead of three. This keeps your broccoli bright and crisp in your bowl.
This article explored a simple and tasty recipe featuring grilled chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy garlic sauce. I shared the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips for perfect results. Remember, you can tweak the recipe to fit your tastes, whether trying different proteins or sauces. Storing leftovers properly ensures you enjoy this meal later. I hope you feel inspired to try this recipe and make it your own! Happy cooking!
