CHICKEN BROCCOLI BOWLS CREAMY CLEAN EATS

The vibrant dance of citrus and garlic, mingling with perfectly cooked chicken and crisp-tender broccoli, is what makes these bowls sing. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will have you craving them again and again.

These Chicken Broccoli Bowls are a comforting, healthy, and incredibly satisfying meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a nutritious lunch. The creamy garlic sauce ties everything together beautifully, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and good for you.

The Essential Components

Using high-quality ingredients is key to making these Chicken Broccoli Bowls truly shine. Fresh, vibrant broccoli, tender chicken, and a flavorful garlic sauce are the foundation of this delicious and healthy meal. Don’t skimp on the garlic – it’s what gives the sauce its signature flavor!

• Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless): Provides lean protein.
• Broccoli florets (fresh): Adds fiber and nutrients.
• Garlic (fresh, minced): Essential for the flavorful sauce.
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing and roasting.
• Heavy cream: Creates a rich and creamy sauce.
• Chicken broth: Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese (grated): Adds a salty, cheesy element to the sauce.
• Lemon juice (fresh): Brightens the flavors and adds acidity.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of heat.
• Cooked rice or quinoa (optional): For serving as a base (optional).

Swaps & Alternatives

Sometimes you need to make a few changes based on what you have on hand. Here are some easy substitutions you can make:

• Chicken thighs: Can be used in place of chicken breasts for a richer flavor.
• Almond milk or coconut milk: Can be used instead of heavy cream for a lighter, dairy-free option. The sauce won’t be as thick, but it will still be delicious.
• Frozen broccoli: A convenient alternative to fresh broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.
• Garlic powder: Can be used in a pinch if you don’t have fresh garlic, but fresh garlic is always better.
• Nutritional yeast: A good substitute for parmesan cheese for a vegan option.

Chef’s Twists

Want to take these Chicken Broccoli Bowls to the next level? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added texture and nutty flavor.
• Stir in some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and tanginess.
• Top with a fried egg for extra protein and richness.
• Add a drizzle of Honey Sriracha Ground Chicken Broccoli sauce for a sweet and spicy kick.

Let’s Get Cooking

This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, and it’s ready in under 30 minutes! The key is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. Get ready to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal that the whole family will love.

1. Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. This ensures even cooking and maximum flavor.

2. Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Garlic

Add more olive oil to the skillet if needed. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.

4. Build the Garlic Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

5. Cook the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the skillet with the sauce. Cook until the broccoli is crisp-tender, about 5-7 minutes. You can also steam the broccoli separately if you prefer.

6. Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the broccoli and sauce. Toss to combine. Serve the Chicken Broccoli Bowls over cooked rice or quinoa, if desired.

Serving Ideas

These Chicken Broccoli Bowls are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when paired with the right sides. Consider serving them with a side salad, some crusty bread, or a simple vegetable dish.

For a low carb option, enjoy them as is or over cauliflower rice. These healthy bowls are a great way to incorporate more vegetables and lean protein into your diet.

You can also try adding different toppings, such as chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of hot sauce. If you’re a fan of Chicken Alfredo Broccoli Bake, you might enjoy adding a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese and broiling the bowls for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Chicken and broccoli is a classic combination, and this recipe is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy it. The creamy garlic sauce adds a touch of indulgence, while the fresh broccoli and lean chicken keep it light and nutritious. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal, and it’s also great for meal prepping.

If you’re looking for more chicken and broccoli inspiration, be sure to check out Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls or Creamy Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls for a summery twist. And for a cozy and comforting meal, try Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake or Chicken Broccoli Orzo Bake. These recipes are all delicious and easy to make, and they’re sure to become family favorites.

Know someone who loves Chicken Broccoli Bowls? Share this recipe with them!

Creamy Garlic Chicken Broccoli Bowls

Amelia Chen-Morrison

These Creamy Garlic Chicken Broccoli Bowls are a healthy and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli are coated in a rich and flavorful creamy garlic sauce, creating a comforting and nutritious dish.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
• Cooked rice or quinoa for serving optional

Instructions

 

• Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
• Add more olive oil to the skillet if needed. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
• Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
• Add the broccoli florets to the skillet with the sauce. Cook until the broccoli is crisp-tender, about 5-7 minutes. You can also steam the broccoli separately if you prefer.
• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the broccoli and sauce. Toss to combine.
• Serve the Chicken Broccoli Bowls over cooked rice or quinoa, if desired.

Notes

For a lighter option, use almond milk or coconut milk instead of heavy cream. If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to thicken it up, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water). Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.