Low Calorie Recipes

Low Calorie Dinner Recipes: Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls

When I first made these grilled chicken broccoli bowls, I didn’t expect them to become such a regular dinner in my house. But something about that smoky chicken, the crisp broccoli, and a garlic sauce that feels far too indulgent for how light it really is just pulls me back. This dish falls right into the comfort zone of low calorie dinner recipes, yet it doesn’t taste like I’m missing out. That balance matters, especially when you’re looking for Low Calorie Dinners that actually satisfy. I’ve tried enough low calorie recipes in my life that felt like punishment meals, but this one isn’t that. It’s hearty, flavorful, and quick enough to make on a weeknight without feeling rushed. The chicken brings that rich savory bite, the broccoli keeps everything bright and fresh, and the creamy garlic sauce is the secret hero holding it all together. Some nights I double the batch just so I’ve got lunch ready for the next day. And while this bowl is squarely in the Low Calorie Chicken Recipes category, it keeps company with ideas that can inspire Low Calorie Breakfast Recipes or even Low Calorie Soup Recipes when you’re mixing things up. It’s a flexible, no-stress dinner that feels right whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family.

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Table of Contents

  • 1) Key Takeaways
  • 2) Easy Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls Recipe
  • 3) Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls
  • 4) How to Make Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls
  • 5) Tips for Making Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls
  • 6) Making Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls Ahead of Time
  • 7) Storing Leftover Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls
  • 8) Try these Main Course recipes next!
  • 9) Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls Recipe
  • 10) Nutrition

1) Key Takeaways

These grilled chicken broccoli bowls are the type of meal I lean on when I want something hearty but still part of my low calorie dinner recipes rotation. They prove that comfort and health can share a plate.

You get juicy grilled chicken, bright broccoli, and a creamy garlic sauce that feels indulgent without tipping the calorie scale.

The recipe is quick, forgiving, and easy to tweak, which makes it perfect for weeknights and meal prep alike.

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2) Easy Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls Recipe

I call this one easy because the steps don’t get complicated. We’re talking a simple marinade, a hot grill, and a sauce whisked in a bowl. That’s it. I’ve made these bowls on nights when the sink was already full of dishes and I didn’t want to add more chaos.

The chicken cooks quickly, the broccoli only takes minutes, and the garlic sauce comes together while the chicken rests. It’s the kind of meal that reminds you that low calorie recipes don’t have to taste like compromise.

The trick lies in balance. Protein from chicken, fiber from broccoli, and flavor from the sauce keep me satisfied without ever feeling heavy.

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3) Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls

Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless, these cook quickly and stay juicy with a simple seasoning. They give the bowls their hearty protein base.

Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli brings crunch and color. It keeps the meal light while still feeling filling.

Olive Oil: A touch of olive oil gives the chicken flavor and keeps it from sticking to the grill.

Paprika and Garlic Powder: These spices add warmth and depth without needing a long marinade.

Salt and Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that wake up all the other flavors.

Plain Greek Yogurt: Thick, creamy, and the backbone of the garlic sauce. It feels indulgent but fits into low calorie chicken recipes easily.

Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic adds sharpness and turns yogurt into a sauce worth pouring over everything.

Lemon Juice: Bright and tangy, it cuts the richness and keeps the sauce fresh.

Cooked Brown Rice or Quinoa: A wholesome base that completes the bowl and soaks up the sauce.

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4) How to Make Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls

Step 1. Preheat your grill or grill pan. Heat helps seal the chicken’s juices, so don’t skip this.

Step 2. Season the chicken breasts with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush lightly with olive oil for flavor and to stop sticking.

Step 3. Place the chicken on the grill. Cook each side for about five minutes, until the meat turns golden and the juices run clear.

Step 4. While the chicken cooks, steam the broccoli until it’s tender but still bright green. I like a bit of crunch left.

Step 5. Mix Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a spoon of olive oil in a bowl. This creamy garlic sauce ties everything together.

Step 6. Slice the chicken, build the bowls with rice, broccoli, and chicken, then drizzle with sauce. Dinner is ready.

5) Tips for Making Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls

I’ve learned to pat the chicken dry before seasoning. It helps the spices stick and avoids steaming instead of searing.

Cooking broccoli until just tender keeps its bright color and crunch, which adds contrast against the soft chicken and rice.

When I want extra punch, I add red pepper flakes into the garlic sauce. It gives the bowls a quiet heat that makes them more interesting without overpowering the other flavors.

6) Making Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls Ahead of Time

I often grill extra chicken and store it in the fridge for busy days. That way I can pull it out, warm it quickly, and build a bowl in minutes.

The sauce stores well too. I keep it in a jar and give it a stir before serving. It keeps its creamy texture for a few days.

When prepping ahead, I store the chicken, broccoli, and rice separately. It keeps each ingredient fresh and makes reheating easier.

7) Storing Leftover Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls

Leftovers keep best in airtight containers. I usually portion them into single servings so they’re ready for lunch.

Chicken holds up for three days in the fridge, and the sauce keeps about as long. I freshen the bowls with a squeeze of lemon before eating.

If you want to freeze the chicken, go ahead, but I recommend making the sauce fresh. Dairy doesn’t always thaw well.

8) Try these Main Course recipes next!

9) Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls Recipe

Low Calorie Dinner Recipes: Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls

When I first made these grilled chicken broccoli bowls, I didn’t expect them to become such a regular dinner in my house. But something about that smoky chicken, the crisp broccoli, and a garlic sauce that feels far too indulgent for how light it really is just pulls me back. This dish falls right into the comfort zone of low calorie dinner recipes, yet it doesn’t taste like I’m missing out. That balance matters, especially when you’re looking for Low Calorie Dinners that actually satisfy. I’ve tried enough low calorie recipes in my life that felt like punishment meals, but this one isn’t that. It’s hearty, flavorful, and quick enough to make on a weeknight without feeling rushed. The chicken brings that rich savory bite, the broccoli keeps everything bright and fresh, and the creamy garlic sauce is the secret hero holding it all together. Some nights I double the batch just so I’ve got lunch ready for the next day. And while this bowl is squarely in the Low Calorie Chicken Recipes category, it keeps company with ideas that can inspire Low Calorie Breakfast Recipes or even Low Calorie Soup Recipes when you’re mixing things up. It’s a flexible, no-stress dinner that feels right whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keywords: low calorie breakfast recipes, Low Calorie Chicken Recipes, low calorie dinner recipes, Low Calorie Dinners, Low Calorie Soup Recipes, low-calorie recipes
Servings: 2 servings
Author: Elena

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Cooked brown rice or quinoa, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  2. Season the chicken breasts with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush with olive oil.
  3. Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, until cooked through and juices run clear.
  4. Steam or lightly sauté the broccoli until just tender but still bright green.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil to make the sauce.
  6. Slice the grilled chicken and serve in bowls with broccoli and brown rice or quinoa.
  7. Drizzle with creamy garlic sauce and enjoy warm.

10) Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl | Calories: 355 | Sugar: 4 g | Sodium: 310 mg | Fat: 12 g | Saturated Fat: 2 g | Carbohydrates: 28 g | Fiber: 5 g | Protein: 33 g | Cholesterol: 70 mg

Written by Elena for Elena Cooks. For more recipes, visit Elena Cooks.

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