Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and healthy grains, offering a well-rounded meal that’s both nourishing and tasty. The grilled chicken is seasoned with a simple yet flavorful spice blend and brightened with lime juice, while the creamy garlic sauce adds a decadent touch without being overly heavy. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate different grains like quinoa or brown rice, and you can make it as spicy as you like by adjusting the cayenne pepper. The freshness of the broccoli and the option to add your favorite toppings make these bowls a winning choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

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

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

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

For the Bowls:

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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the lime juice and toss to coat. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours.
2. Cook the Chicken: Grill or pan-fry the chicken until cooked through and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes per side. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the rice or quinoa between two bowls. Top with the steamed broccoli and sliced chicken. Drizzle with the creamy garlic sauce and serve with lime wedges.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2
• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes (not including marinating time)

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with grilled or roasted tofu for a plant-based option.
• Grain Swap: Use any cooked grain you like such as brown rice, farro, or couscous.
• Sauce Variations: Add sriracha or hot sauce to the creamy garlic sauce for an extra kick, or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
• Toppings: Add avocado, shredded cheese, or a fried egg on top of your bowls for added flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy garlic sauce can be stored separately in the fridge for up to a week.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken and broccoli in the microwave or in a pan over low heat. The creamy garlic sauce can be used cold or gently warmed. If the sauce thickens in the fridge, add a small amount of water or milk to thin it out before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and add extra juiciness.

2. Can I make the creamy garlic sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the creamy garlic sauce up to 1 day in advance and store it in the fridge.

3. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used if you don’t have fresh. Just steam or roast it according to package instructions.

4. What other vegetables can I add to the bowls?

You can add any vegetable you like! Roasted bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even sautéed spinach would complement the dish.

5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream and plant-based mayo.

6. How can I make the dish spicier?

If you like heat, increase the cayenne pepper in the chicken marinade or add hot sauce to the creamy garlic sauce.

7. Can I meal prep this recipe for the week?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Keep the components in separate containers to preserve freshness and simply assemble when ready to eat.

8. Can I use quinoa instead of rice?

Definitely! Quinoa adds a nice nutty flavor and is a great protein-packed option.

9. Is this recipe low-carb?

This recipe can be made lower-carb by omitting the rice or quinoa and adding more vegetables or a leafy green base like spinach or arugula.

10. What can I serve with these bowls?

For a complete meal, you can serve these bowls with a side salad, some roasted sweet potatoes, or even a few slices of garlic bread.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a flavorful, customizable, and healthy meal that’s perfect for any time of day. With its simple yet delicious ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a great dish for busy weekdays or lazy weekends. Whether you’re enjoying it as-is or experimenting with your own variations, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

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