Chicken and Broccoli Bowls

Chicken and Broccoli Bowls are a simple and delicious meal packed with tender chicken pieces and fresh broccoli florets, all tossed together in a tasty sauce. It’s a great mix…

By Riley • November 25, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

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Chicken and Broccoli Bowls are a simple and delicious meal packed with tender chicken pieces and fresh broccoli florets, all tossed together in a tasty sauce. It’s a great mix of protein and veggies that feels both nourishing and satisfying, with just the right balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a filling lunch, this bowl fits the bill perfectly.

I love how easy it is to customize this dish. You can swap in your favorite grains like rice or quinoa, or add a sprinkle of cheese or some nuts for a little extra crunch. I usually make a big batch of the chicken and broccoli, so I have plenty of leftovers to grab for busy days. It’s a great way to eat something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen.

For serving, I like to drizzle a bit of soy sauce or a squeeze of lemon on top to brighten up the flavors. Sometimes, I even add a dash of chili flakes if I’m in the mood for something with a little kick. It’s a cozy, go-to meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day, and my whole family always asks for seconds.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for lean protein that cooks quickly. If you prefer, thighs work well too—they stay juicy and add more flavor.

Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets give a nice crunch after roasting. If you don’t have broccoli, try cauliflower or green beans—they roast beautifully too.

Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice add a light, fluffy base. Brown rice or quinoa are good swaps if you want more fiber and a nuttier taste.

Greek Yogurt Sauce: Greek yogurt makes the sauce creamy and tangy. Sour cream is a good alternative, or use a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option. Adding honey balances the tang with a touch of sweetness.

How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Golden?

Cooking chicken evenly and getting a nice golden crust can be tricky. Here’s my simple method:

• Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps it brown better.
• Heat your skillet on medium-high and add the oil until shimmering.
• Place the chicken strips without crowding the pan—overcrowding steams the meat instead of browning it.
• Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until you see a golden crust, then flip and cook the other side until done.
• Let it rest a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet – perfect for cooking chicken evenly and getting a nice sear.
• Baking sheet – great for roasting broccoli to crisp-tender perfection.
• Medium saucepan with lid – you’ll cook the rice here; a tight lid helps it steam well.
• Mixing bowl – handy for whisking together the sauce ingredients smoothly.
• Sharp knife and cutting board – essential for slicing chicken and chopping herbs safely.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh to make it vegetarian; press tofu first to remove moisture.
• Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the bowl for a mild, melty touch.
• Stir in sautéed mushrooms or sliced bell peppers for extra veggies and flavor.
• Mix a pinch of cumin or chili powder into the chicken seasoning for a smoky twist.

Chicken and Broccoli Bowls

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken and Veggies:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
• 1 3/4 cups water (for cooking rice)
• Juice of 1 lime, plus lime wedges for garnish
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional, for garnish)

For the Sauce:

• 1/3 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian herbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Splash of water or milk to thin the sauce if needed

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 25 minutes for cooking, totaling roughly 35 minutes. Most of the time, the rice is cooking or the broccoli is roasting, so you can multitask easily.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Rice:

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Place the rice and 1 3/4 cups of water in a pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 15 minutes until all the water is absorbed. Turn off the heat and let the rice stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

2. Roast the Broccoli:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for about 15 minutes until the broccoli is crisp-tender and has lightly browned edges. Set aside.

3. Cook the Chicken:

Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, cooking it until golden brown and fully cooked, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Remove from heat.

4. Make the Sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise, honey, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or milk until it reaches a drizzling consistency.

5. Assemble the Bowls:

Divide the cooked rice between bowls. Arrange the chicken strips on one side and the roasted broccoli on the other. Drizzle the prepared sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle chopped cilantro and red chili flakes on top for extra flavor.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the entire bowl and add a lime wedge on the side to brighten the flavors. Serve warm and enjoy your wholesome, tasty chicken and broccoli bowls!

Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?

Yes! Just thaw and drain the broccoli well, then pat it dry before roasting. This helps prevent sogginess and ensures it crisps up nicely in the oven.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Cook and assemble the components, then store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving and add fresh lime juice just before eating to keep flavors bright.

What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt in the Sauce?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt, sour cream works great too. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based yogurt or an avocado-based sauce for creaminess.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Keep leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and broccoli gently on the stove or microwave, then add fresh sauce and herbs to retain flavor.