Vibrant, wholesome, and bursting with flavor, the Grilled Chicken Bowl with Creamy Avocado Sauce & Veggies is one of those crowd-pleaser recipes you’ll want to put on repeat. Imagine tender, spice-rubbed chicken sizzling on the grill, nestled on a bed of fluffy grains, surrounded by a rainbow of crisp-tender vegetables, and finished with a luscious avocado sauce that ties it all together. This bowl is more than just a nutritious meal—it’s a feast for your senses, and everyone at the table will want seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish relies on everyday kitchen staples that pack a flavorful punch. Each ingredient in this Grilled Chicken Bowl with Creamy Avocado Sauce & Veggies is thoughtfully chosen, lending color, freshness, and incredible taste, making the final bowl a true celebration of simple, healthy cooking.
- Chicken Breasts: Look for boneless, skinless breasts for quicker grilling and maximum juiciness.
- Olive Oil: This helps lock in moisture while adding a subtle fruitiness to the chicken.
- Chili Powder: Provides a smoky, robust warmth—the heart of the flavor blend.
- Cumin: Adds earthy depth and a hint of nuttiness to the marinade.
- Garlic Powder: Essential for mellow, savory undertones that infuse the chicken and sauce.
- Salt and Pepper: Let these simple staples sharpen the other spices and bring out all the natural flavors.
- Brown Rice or Quinoa: Choose your favorite grain for a wholesome, fiber-rich base (or swap for cauliflower rice to lighten things up).
- Cherry Tomatoes: Halved for juicy bursts of sweetness in every bite.
- Broccoli Florets: Steam or roast; their crunch and color are irresistible here.
- Red Bell Pepper: Bright and crisp, these slices add both visual appeal and a gentle sweetness.
- Corn Kernels: Either grilled, canned, or thawed from frozen—corn lends a sweet pop of flavor throughout.
- Fresh Cilantro: Freshly chopped, it brings an aromatic finish that brightens the entire bowl.
- Avocado: The creamy star of the sauce, make sure it’s perfectly ripe for the silkiest texture.
- Greek Yogurt: Adds tang, creaminess, and a protein boost to the avocado sauce.
- Lime Juice: Lends a fresh, zesty punch and keeps the avocado sauce vibrant.
- Garlic: One clove is just enough to give the sauce its signature kick.
- Water: Adjust to thin out the sauce until it’s drizzly—but never runny—perfection.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Bowl with Creamy Avocado Sauce & Veggies
Step 1: Prep and Grill the Chicken
Begin by giving your chicken a quick rub-down with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This not only seals in the juices but ensures the grilled chicken is deeply flavorful and ready to steal the show. Get your grill or grill pan hot over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes per side. You want those gorgeous grill marks and an internal temp of 165°F. Let the chicken rest on a cutting board for a few minutes before slicing—this keeps it tender and juicy, not dry.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce
While the chicken is sizzling, blitz up your creamy avocado sauce. Blend the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, a good squeeze of lime, garlic clove, and a bit of water until the mixture is dreamy, silky smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. If you like your sauce thinner or drizzly, add a touch more water—a little goes a long way. Trust me, you’re going to want to put this sauce on everything.
Step 3: Prepare the Veggies and Base
Set up your bowl base by dividing your cooked brown rice or quinoa between two bowls. This is where you can get creative—if you’re after a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is awesome here. Next, arrange the cherry tomatoes, broccoli florets, red bell pepper, corn kernels, and cilantro in neat, colorful sections. Each veggie brings its own crunch and burst of flavor to the Grilled Chicken Bowl with Creamy Avocado Sauce & Veggies.
Step 4: Assemble and Finish
Slice up the juicy grilled chicken and fan the pieces over your grains and veggies. Drizzle that dreamy avocado sauce generously across the top, making sure to get a bit on every component. Sprinkle with extra cilantro if you love the freshness. The Grilled Chicken Bowl with Creamy Avocado Sauce & Veggies is now ready to enjoy—snap a quick photo if you must!—then dig in while everything is warm and vibrant.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Bowl with Creamy Avocado Sauce & Veggies
Garnishes
The finishing touches really elevate your bowl! Scatter extra fresh cilantro, a few lime wedges on the side, or even thinly sliced jalapeño for a hint of heat. A tiny sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a pinch of chili flakes can add an extra layer of flavor to this Grilled Chicken Bowl with Creamy Avocado Sauce & Veggies, making each bite pop.
Side Dishes
Since this bowl is so balanced, sides can be simple. Warm tortillas, a crisp green salad, or roasted sweet potato wedges pair beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something light, a batch of quick pickled onions adds zippy contrast, complementing the creamy avocado sauce perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For an interactive dinner, set out the chicken, grains, veggies, and sauce on a platter as a build-your-own bar. Let everyone customize their own Grilled Chicken Bowl with Creamy Avocado Sauce & Veggies. Or, try serving mini versions in mason jars for meal-prep lunches and picnics! Presentation turns this wholesome meal into a special occasion, every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store all components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The veggies and grains will stay fresh for up to 3 days, and the chicken stays moist if you keep it sealed. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the avocado sauce to prevent it from browning and enjoy within 2 days.
Freezing
While the fresh veggies and avocado sauce don’t fare well frozen, you can freeze cooked and sliced chicken along with the grains for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, just thaw overnight in the fridge and add freshly prepped veggies and sauce for a bowl that tastes just-made.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave or warm the chicken and grains gently in a covered pan or microwave-safe container. Add a splash of water if the grains seem dry. The veggies and sauce are best served fresh or just brought to room temperature if previously chilled—this keeps the Grilled Chicken Bowl with Creamy Avocado Sauce & Veggies tasting as bright as the day you made it.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe, providing even more juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the grilling time as needed, since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the avocado sauce?
If you’re dairy-free or out of Greek yogurt, try using coconut yogurt, plain dairy-free yogurt, or even a scoop of silken tofu for creaminess. Each option still delivers a silky, rich texture for the sauce.
Can I make the Grilled Chicken Bowl with Creamy Avocado Sauce & Veggies ahead for meal prep?
You sure can! Assemble the chicken, grains, and veggies in containers, storing the avocado sauce separately. Add the sauce just before eating to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
How can I keep the avocado sauce from turning brown?
The lime juice helps, but for maximum freshness, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the sauce before sealing the container. Use within two days for the brightest color and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! As long as you stick with gluten-free grains like brown rice or certified gluten-free quinoa, the entire Grilled Chicken Bowl with Creamy Avocado Sauce & Veggies is naturally gluten-free and packed with protein.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something soul-satisfying about digging into a Grilled Chicken Bowl with Creamy Avocado Sauce & Veggies—the balance of flavors, textures, and colors makes it a winner for busy weeknights or special gatherings alike. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if this bowl becomes a new favorite in your household!
Print
Grilled Chicken Bowl with Creamy Avocado Sauce & Veggies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Grilled Chicken Bowl with Creamy Avocado Sauce & Veggies is a delicious and nutritious meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Tender grilled chicken is paired with a creamy avocado sauce, flavorful veggies, and hearty brown rice or quinoa. It’s a balanced meal that’s easy to make and bursting with fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Grilled Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/4 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Bowl Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup steamed or roasted broccoli florets
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen and thawed)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Grilled Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
- Creamy Avocado Sauce: Blend avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, and water in a blender or food processor until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice or quinoa between two bowls. Top with sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, bell pepper, corn, and cilantro. Drizzle generously with creamy avocado sauce and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can swap rice or quinoa for cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb.
- Add black beans or sliced avocado for extra protein and healthy fats.
- The avocado sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to avoid browning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
