Description
This Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce recipe features tender, marinated grilled chicken served alongside steamed broccoli and a rich, flavorful Parmesan garlic sauce. It’s a wholesome and satisfying meal perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Marinade
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish and Sides
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooked rice or quinoa (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat thoroughly with the marinade. Let sit for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
- Steam the Broccoli: While the chicken marinates, steam the broccoli florets for 5 to 7 minutes until they are tender yet still vibrant green. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken breasts for 6 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, stirring constantly until the cheese has melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Assemble the Bowls: In serving bowls, layer sliced grilled chicken and the steamed broccoli florets. Drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce. For a heartier meal, add cooked rice or quinoa to the bowls.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve the bowls warm for a delicious, balanced meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor and tenderness.
- Steaming broccoli preserves its nutrients and color; avoid overcooking to keep texture crisp.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor in the creamy sauce.
- The creamy garlic sauce can be made ahead and warmed just before serving.
- Add cooked grains like rice or quinoa to turn this into a filling one-bowl meal.
- For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
