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

Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl with Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a satisfying weeknight meal, this bowl offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The smoky grilled chicken pairs beautifully with crispy Brussels sprouts, all drizzled with a luscious creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. It’s not just tasty; it’s also nutritious and visually appealing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The rich creaminess of the sauce combined with the savory grilled chicken and roasted Brussels sprouts creates an irresistible dish.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: With a total prep and cook time of just 40 minutes, you can whip up this meal in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course for lunch or dinner, this bowl can easily be adjusted to suit your taste preferences by swapping ingredients.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the Brussels sprouts, this recipe is as nutritious as it is delicious!
• Impressive Presentation: Serve in individual bowls for a restaurant-style experience at home.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the chicken, enhancing flavor.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting Brussels sprouts evenly, ensuring they become crispy.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for marinating the chicken with spices before grilling.
• Saucepan: Necessary for making the creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce without burning ingredients.

Ingredients

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
• 1 cup grated Parmesan
• Salt & pepper to taste

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

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts. In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
2. Coat each chicken breast thoroughly with the mixture.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Grill the seasoned chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side until fully cooked and nicely charred.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

While the chicken is grilling:
1. Preheat your oven to 200C (390F).
2. Toss halved Brussels sprouts in a baking sheet with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast for approximately 20 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt butter completely.
2. Add flour; stir continuously for about 1 minute to create a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
4. Add minced garlic and let simmer until thickened.
5. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl

To serve:
1. Slice grilled chicken breasts into strips.
2. In bowls, layer sliced grilled chicken on one side and roasted Brussels sprouts on another.
3. Generously drizzle creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce over both components.
4. Optionally top with cracked black pepper for added flavor!

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

Serving a Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl with Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce is all about presentation and enhancing flavors. Here are some creative ways to make your dish even more delightful.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Leaves: Add a few thyme leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the chicken.

Include a Grain Base

• Brown Rice: Serve your bowl over fluffy brown rice for added texture and fiber.
• Quinoa: Use quinoa as a base for a protein-packed option that pairs well with the sauce.

Top with Crunch

• Toasted Almonds: Scatter some toasted almond slices on top for a crunchy contrast.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Add panko breadcrumbs mixed with herbs for an extra crispy layer.

Drizzle Extra Sauce

• More Creamy Sauce: Serve additional creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce on the side for those who love extra flavor.
• Balsamic Reduction: A drizzle of balsamic reduction can add a sweet tang that elevates the dish.

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

Getting the best results from your Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure perfection every time you make this recipe.

• Marinate Chicken: Letting the chicken marinate in olive oil, lemon juice, and spices for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese will significantly elevate the taste of your creamy sauce.
• Avoid Overcooking: Grill chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to keep it juicy.
• Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Ensure Brussels sprouts are cut in half and evenly coated with oil to achieve maximum crispiness while roasting.
• Adjust Consistency of Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, whisk in a little more milk until you reach your desired creaminess.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to add spices like paprika or chili flakes for more depth in flavor.

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 enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic provide a comforting addition.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet and savory roasted sweet potatoes add delightful contrast and sweetness.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a fresh crunch that complements the main dish.
4. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette adds brightness to your meal.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, and lemon dressing brings additional texture and nutrition.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred corn adds sweetness and smokiness that pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl with Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Grilling for too long can dry out the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).

• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to season your ingredients can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

• Inadequate Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too runny, it won’t cling well to the chicken and sprouts. Make sure to whisk it thoroughly and let it simmer until thickened.

• Skipping the Roasting Step: Overlooking the roasting of Brussels sprouts may lead to chewy textures instead of crispy ones. Roast them until golden for better flavor.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect cooking times and results. Ensure all items, especially milk for the sauce, are at room temperature before starting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety.

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

• Place in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 175°C (350°F). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of milk if needed for creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese in the sauce?

You can use nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative for a dairy-free version while still getting that cheesy flavor.

Can I make this bowl vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute grilled tempeh or marinated tofu for chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the sauce.

How do I make this Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, replace regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch when making the sauce.

What other vegetables can I use besides Brussels sprouts?

Feel free to swap Brussels sprouts for broccoli, green beans, or asparagus depending on your preference and seasonal availability.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Bowl with Creamy Garlic-Parmesan Sauce is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or grains like brown rice or quinoa. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy a hearty meal packed with flavor!