Name: Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls: A Healthy & Delicious Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice; 1/4 cup chopped red onion; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional); 2 tablespoons toasted slivered almonds (optional); Lemon wedges, for serving; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls: the name alone conjures images of vibrant, healthy, and utterly delicious meals, doesn't it? Forget boring diet food! We're diving headfirst into a flavor explosion that's as good for your body as it is for your taste buds. I'm so excited to share this recipe with you because it's become a staple in my own kitchen, and I know it will in yours too.

While the exact origins of combining grilled chicken and broccoli in a bowl are somewhat modern, the concept of pairing lean protein with nutrient-rich vegetables is as old as time. Cultures around the world have long understood the importance of balanced meals, and this dish is a testament to that wisdom. It's a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.

What makes Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls so irresistible? It's the perfect trifecta of taste, texture, and convenience. The smoky char of the grilled chicken, the slightly crisp-tender broccoli, and the customizable sauce options create a symphony of flavors and sensations in every bite. Plus, it's incredibly easy to meal prep, making it a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Whether you're looking for a healthy lunch, a quick dinner, or a satisfying post-workout meal, these bowls are guaranteed to hit the spot. Get ready to experience a new level of deliciousness and convenience!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Broccoli:

1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Bowls:

2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
1/4 cup chopped red onion
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons toasted slivered almonds (optional)
Lemon wedges, for serving

Optional Sauce (Honey Mustard):

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Chicken Marinade:

Okay, let's get started! First, we're going to make a delicious marinade for our chicken. This is key to getting that juicy, flavorful grilled chicken we're after. Trust me, don't skip this step!

In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined. This is our flavor bomb!
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that both sides are coated evenly.
Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be. I usually aim for at least an hour if I have the time.

Grilling the Chicken:

Now for the fun part – grilling! This is where the magic happens and we get that beautiful char and smoky flavor.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to sear the chicken but not so hot that it burns before it's cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps it get a nice sear.
Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure!
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips or cubes.

Preparing the Broccoli:

Next up, let's get our broccoli ready. We want it tender-crisp and full of flavor. Grilling it alongside the chicken is a great way to achieve this.

While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Alternatively, you can grill the broccoli alongside the chicken.
In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure the broccoli is evenly coated.
Spread the broccoli florets in a single layer on a baking sheet. If grilling, place the broccoli in a grill basket or directly on the grill grates.
Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or grill for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the broccoli is tender-crisp and slightly charred.

Assembling the Bowls:

Alright, we're almost there! Now it's time to put everything together and create our delicious and healthy bowls.

Divide the cooked quinoa or brown rice between two bowls.
Top with the grilled chicken and roasted broccoli.
Sprinkle with chopped red onion, crumbled feta cheese (if using), and toasted slivered almonds (if using).
Serve with lemon wedges and a drizzle of the optional honey mustard sauce.

Making the Optional Honey Mustard Sauce:

If you're feeling fancy, this honey mustard sauce adds a touch of sweetness and tang that really elevates the dish. It's super easy to make!

In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add a little more honey for sweetness or lemon juice for tang.
Drizzle over the bowls just before serving.

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize your bowls? Here are a few ideas:

Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus to the grill or oven alongside the broccoli.
Spice it up: If you like things spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken marinade or a dash of hot sauce to the honey mustard sauce.
Change the protein: You can easily substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or steak. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Use different grains: Instead of quinoa or brown rice, try using couscous, farro, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Add avocado: Sliced avocado adds a creamy texture and healthy fats to the bowls.
Make it ahead: You can prepare the chicken, broccoli, and grains ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Then, simply assemble the bowls when you're ready to eat.

Serving Suggestions:

These Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls are perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. They're also great for meal prepping and taking to work for lunch. Serve them with a side of fresh fruit or a simple salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Calories: 500-600
Protein: 40-50g
Fat: 20-30g
Carbohydrates: 40-50g

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls! I hope you love them as much as I do. Let me know in the comments if you try this recipe and what variations you come up with!

Conclusion:

This Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowl recipe isn't just another healthy meal; it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen! I truly believe it's a must-try because it perfectly balances simplicity with deliciousness. We're talking tender, juicy grilled chicken, perfectly cooked broccoli, and a customizable base that lets you tailor the dish to your exact preferences. It's quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests. What more could you ask for? But the real magic lies in its versatility. While I've outlined my favorite way to prepare it, feel free to get creative! For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade or drizzle a sriracha mayo over the finished bowl. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, simply swap the chicken for grilled tofu or chickpeas. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Grain Power: I love serving this over quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and nutrients. But feel free to experiment with other grains like farro or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. * Sauce it Up: The sauce is where you can really personalize this bowl. My go-to is a simple lemon-tahini dressing, but a peanut sauce, teriyaki glaze, or even a creamy avocado dressing would be equally amazing. * Veggie Boost: Don't be afraid to add more veggies! Roasted sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or even some shredded carrots would be fantastic additions. * Crunch Factor: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, chopped almonds, or even some crispy fried onions can add a delightful crunch to each bite. * Spice it Up: If you are a fan of spicy food, add some chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. I've made this Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowl countless times, and it always hits the spot. It's a satisfying, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal that I know you'll love just as much as I do. It's also a great way to use up leftover grilled chicken, making it a budget-friendly option as well. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up the grill (or use a grill pan!), and get cooking! I'm confident that this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. I'm so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Once you've given it a go, I'd absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What was your favorite part? Share your photos and comments below! Let's create a community of Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowl enthusiasts! Happy cooking!