Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl with Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce

The Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl with Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce is a delightful dish that combines juicy grilled chicken with crispy roasted Brussels sprouts, all topped with a rich and creamy sauce. This bowl is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, offering a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. The standout quality of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a gourmet meal ready in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and lemon elevates the dish to new heights.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out Brussels sprouts for your favorite vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from Brussels sprouts, it’s both hearty and wholesome.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe is great for portioning out for the week ahead, ensuring you have tasty meals ready to go.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly cooked chicken with charred flavor.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting Brussels sprouts evenly until they are crispy.
• Mixing bowls: Great for marinating chicken and tossing vegetables together before cooking.

Ingredients

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories: ~480 per serving

For the Grilled Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• Juice of lemon

For the Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

• 300g Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp flour
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl with Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
• Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade. Let them sit while preparing other ingredients.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

• Preheat your oven to 200C (390F).
• Toss the halved Brussels sprouts in a separate bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
• Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for about 20 minutes until crispy and golden brown.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

• Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
• Add marinated chicken breasts to the grill. Cook for about 5–6 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through and nicely charred.
• Once cooked, remove from heat and let rest before slicing.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce

• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
• Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute until lightly golden.
• Gradually whisk in milk. Continue stirring until it thickens slightly.
• Add minced garlic and simmer for an additional minute before mixing in grated Parmesan until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl

• In serving bowls, layer sliced grilled chicken on one side and roasted Brussels sprouts on the other.
• Generously drizzle creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce over the top.
• Finish with cracked black pepper if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl with Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce

Serving your Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl with Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delicious ways to make this bowl even more enjoyable.

With Extra Toppings

• Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of flavor.
• Cracked Black Pepper – Add a dash on top to enhance the dish’s aroma and taste.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens – Serve on a bed of mixed greens for added freshness and crunch.
• Spinach – Use spinach as a base for a nutrient-packed alternative.

Accompanied by a Grain

• Brown Rice – This hearty grain adds fiber and makes the meal more filling.
• Quinoa – A protein-rich option that complements the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl with Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce

Perfecting your Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl with Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce is easier than you think. Follow these tips for an outstanding dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs greatly enhance flavor.
• Marinate the Chicken – Letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes can deepen its flavor profile.
• Achieve Perfect Grill Marks – Preheat your grill well; this helps in getting those beautiful grill marks while keeping the chicken juicy.
• Monitor Cooking Times – Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken; it should be tender and moist when done.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or garlic levels based on personal preference.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl with Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread – A crunchy, buttery delight that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
2. Couscous Salad – Light and fluffy, this salad adds texture and pairs well with grilled flavors.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Naturally sweet, roasted sweet potatoes add balance to the savory bowl.
4. Steamed Asparagus – Tender asparagus offers a fresh, green contrast that enhances overall nutrition.
5. Greek Yogurt Dip – A tangy dip that can serve as a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce.
6. Cauliflower Rice – A lower-carb alternative that absorbs flavors beautifully and adds volume to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl with Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Grilling chicken for too long can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) for juicy results.

• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season your ingredients properly can result in bland flavors. Don’t shy away from salt, pepper, and spices; they make a big difference.

• Skipping the Sauce: The creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce is what elevates this dish. Don’t skip it! Take your time to prepare it properly for maximum flavor.

• Inconsistent Vegetable Size: Cutting Brussels sprouts unevenly can cause some to burn while others remain undercooked. Halve them uniformly for even roasting.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients can affect cooking times. Let your chicken and sauce components sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl with Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label containers with dates.

Reheating Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl with Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pan, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl with Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce:

Can I use other vegetables in the bowl?

Absolutely! You can swap Brussels sprouts with broccoli, green beans, or asparagus based on your preference or seasonal produce.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

For a dairy-free option, consider using nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative that melts well.

How do I make this dish spicy?

To add heat, mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce before serving.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this bowl is perfect for meal prep! Store individual servings in the fridge or freezer as mentioned above.

What side dishes pair well with this bowl?

Serve alongside brown rice or quinoa for added nutrition and texture! A simple green salad would also complement the flavors nicely.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl with Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by switching up the vegetables or adding different proteins. This makes it an excellent choice for any weeknight dinner or meal prep plan. Give it a try and enjoy its delightful flavors!