Best Grilled Chicken & Brussels with Pepper Parmesan Cream Sauce

For a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome, this Best Grilled Chicken & Brussels with Pepper Parmesan Cream Sauce is a perfect choice. Juicy grilled chicken pairs beautifully with roasted Brussels sprouts, all brought together with a luscious cream sauce infused with cracked black pepper and Parmesan cheese. It’s a restaurant-worthy recipe that’s surprisingly simple to prepare at home. Ideal for family dinners, date nights, or even meal prep, this dish strikes a balance between comfort and elegance.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: Creamy Parmesan sauce with a peppery kick.
• Nutritious & Balanced: Lean protein with fiber-rich Brussels sprouts.
• Versatile: Works for both casual meals and special occasions.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Components can be prepped ahead and assembled quickly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Brussels Sprouts:

• 1 lb (450g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pepper Parmesan Cream Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley
• Extra Parmesan

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub over chicken breasts. Preheat grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Set aside to rest.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes. Pour in cream and broth, stirring to combine. Simmer for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Slice grilled chicken and serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts. Drizzle generously with pepper Parmesan cream sauce. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

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Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overcook Chicken: Use a meat thermometer for juicy results.
2. Crispy Brussels: Spread evenly on the baking sheet to avoid steaming.
3. Freshly Cracked Pepper: Makes the sauce bold and aromatic.
4. Control Thickness: Add extra broth if the sauce is too thick.
5. Meal Prep Tip: Store chicken, sprouts, and sauce separately for easy reheating.

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Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Different Protein: Swap chicken for pork chops or salmon.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower mash instead of rice or pasta.
• Veggie Twist: Add roasted mushrooms or asparagus.

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What to Serve With This Dish

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting pairing.
• Rice Pilaf: Light and flavorful base.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp and refreshing side.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up sauce.

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Storing and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove, adding broth to thin the sauce if needed.

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Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 4)

• Calories: ~560 kcal
• Protein: 42g
• Fat: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 5g

(Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on exact ingredients used.)

Why Grilled Chicken & Brussels Sprouts Make the Perfect Pair

Grilled chicken and Brussels sprouts are a match made in culinary heaven. The smoky char from the grill brings out the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts, while the juicy, seasoned chicken adds satisfying protein. Paired with a rich, peppery Parmesan cream sauce, this dish balances comfort food richness with wholesome ingredients.

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Health Benefits of the Main Ingredients

This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious:

• Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, perfect for muscle building and weight management.

• Brussels sprouts are high in fiber, vitamin K, and vitamin C — making them great for digestion and immunity.

• Parmesan cheese, while indulgent, offers calcium and a strong flavor profile, so you only need a little to go a long way.

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How to Grill Chicken Perfectly Every Time

Achieving tender, juicy grilled chicken is easier than you think. Here are a few tips:

• Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness so they cook evenly.

• Marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and moisture.

• Preheat the grill properly and oil the grates to prevent sticking.

• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling to seal in juices.

These simple steps make a big difference in the final dish.

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Tips for Roasting or Grilling Brussels Sprouts

If you prefer not to grill, roasting the Brussels sprouts is a fantastic alternative. To get crispy edges and caramelized flavor:

• Cut the sprouts in halves or quarters depending on size.

• Toss them in olive oil, salt, and black pepper.

• Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and tender.

Grilling adds smokiness, but roasting brings out a natural sweetness that complements the creamy sauce.

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Making the Perfect Pepper Parmesan Cream Sauce

The cream sauce is what ties everything together. Here’s what makes it special:

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and texture.

• Add cracked black pepper generously for a bold, spicy kick.

• Simmer with heavy cream or half-and-half, and stir continuously to prevent clumps.

If you like it extra garlicky, sauté some minced garlic in butter before adding the cream — it adds another layer of richness.

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Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly Modifications

This dish is easily adaptable for those following a low-carb or keto diet. Skip the pasta or rice, and serve the grilled chicken and Brussels sprouts on their own or over a bed of cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles. The pepper Parmesan sauce is already keto-friendly and full of satisfying fats.

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Serving Suggestions for a Full Meal

While the chicken and Brussels are the stars, consider rounding out the plate with:

• A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette

• A side of garlic butter mushrooms

• A crusty slice of artisan bread for soaking up extra sauce (optional but delicious)

This makes the meal feel complete and restaurant-worthy, ideal for a cozy dinner or date night at home.

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How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Got leftovers? This dish stores well for up to 3 days in the fridge. Store the chicken, Brussels, and sauce in separate containers if possible. Reheat the sauce gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to loosen it, and warm the chicken and sprouts in a skillet for best texture.

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Ideal Occasions for Serving

This recipe works beautifully for:

• Weeknight dinners when you want something comforting but not too heavy

• Entertaining guests — the cream sauce adds elegance, while grilling keeps it casual

• Meal prep — cook everything in advance and assemble later with minimal effort

It’s a great choice when you want impressive flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.

Final Thoughts

This Best Grilled Chicken & Brussels with Pepper Parmesan Cream Sauce is the perfect balance of hearty, flavorful, and comforting. With juicy grilled chicken, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet nourishing. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

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