This BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl is a tasty and colorful meal! It’s packed with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy ranch dressing all in one bowl. Perfect for any time of the day!
Honestly, who can resist the mix of smoky BBQ and cool ranch? I love making this bowl when I want a quick dinner—just toss everything in and enjoy the good vibes! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook quickly. If you want a different flavor, try using cooked rotisserie chicken or shredded turkey instead. They both save prep time!
BBQ Sauce: The BBQ sauce is what brings the flavor! If you want to make it healthier, opt for a low-sugar or homemade BBQ sauce. You could also try using teriyaki sauce for a sweet twist if BBQ isn’t your favorite.
Brown Rice/Quinoa: This bowl needs a good base. While I recommend brown rice for its nutty flavor, quinoa is a gluten-free option that’s packed with protein. You can even use cauliflower rice for a low-carb choice!
Fresh Veggies: The combination of lettuce, avocado, tomatoes, and cabbage adds great crunch and color. Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have! Spinach or bell peppers work well too.
Ranch Dressing: Ranch dressing is a classic, but you can substitute it with Greek yogurt with herbs for a lighter version. If you’re looking for a kick, try using spicy ranch or a drizzle of hot sauce instead!
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky! Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and not overcooked:
- Heat your skillet on medium to medium-high. This keeps the outside from burning while the inside cooks.
- Keep the chicken pieces uniform in size for even cooking. About an inch in size works well.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes without stirring too much. This will give the chicken time to brown nicely.
- When the chicken is fully cooked, it should reach a temperature of 165°F (75°C) – you can check with a meat thermometer.
Don’t forget to let the chicken soak up that BBQ sauce after cooking. It really enhances the flavor!
BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bowl:
- 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Ranch dressing, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. Just a quick sauté of the chicken, and then you can chop and assemble your veggies. It’s a fast meal that’s big on flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Begin by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season your diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Make sure there’s no pink left in the center!
2. Add BBQ Sauce:
When the chicken is fully cooked, stir in the BBQ sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up that delicious flavor. Once done, remove from heat.
3. Assemble Your Bowl:
In a serving bowl, start with a layer of cooked brown rice or quinoa at the bottom. Next, add the BBQ chicken on one side of the bowl. This is where the fun begins!
4. Add Your Fresh Veggies:
Now, curate your masterpiece by arranging the shredded lettuce, diced avocado, chopped tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded purple cabbage, and red onion (if using) in sections around the bowl to create a vibrant display of colors.
5. Finish with Dressing and Garnish:
Generously drizzle ranch dressing over the entire bowl, letting it cascade over the veggies and chicken. Finally, sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top for that extra flavor burst!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl is now ready to enjoy! Dig in and relish the mix of flavors and textures. Perfect for lunch or dinner!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for This Bowl?
Absolutely! If chicken isn’t your preference, you can use diced turkey, pork, or even grilled tofu for a vegetarian option. Ensure any meat is cooked thoroughly before adding it to the bowl.
Can I Prepare This Bowl in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and prepare the rice or quinoa ahead of time. Store each component separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just assemble the bowl and drizzle with ranch dressing before serving!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have components that shouldn’t be mixed (like the ranch and fresh veggies), keep them separate for the best taste when reheating.
What Other Toppings Can I Add to This Bowl?
Feel free to get creative! Some tasty additions could be black beans, corn, jalapeños for some heat, or sliced olives. You can also switch up the cheese with pepper jack or feta for a different flavor twist!