Yields: 4 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
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, for heat)
- 1 lime, juiced
For the Broccoli:
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or plain Greek yogurt (for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Add the chicken and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
- Pour the lime juice over the chicken and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or longer for more flavor).
2. Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center. An internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) should be reached.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or chopping into bite-sized pieces.
3. Prepare the Broccoli:
- While the chicken is grilling, steam or roast the broccoli.
- Steaming: Place broccoli florets in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
- Roasting: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
- Season the cooked broccoli with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant (do not burn).
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream (or Greek yogurt) and Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide the cooked broccoli among bowls.
- Top with the grilled chicken.
- Drizzle generously with the creamy garlic sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
