This BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl is bursting with flavor! It combines juicy chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, and creamy ranch dressing over a bed of rice or greens. Yum!
It’s like a party in a bowl! I love how I can toss everything together quickly, and it’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Plus, it always makes my taste buds happy! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Brown rice is nutritious, but white rice is a great choice if you prefer a lighter texture. Quinoa or cauliflower rice are excellent alternatives for a low-carb option!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean, but thighs are juicier and give more flavor. You can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce! If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try a homemade sauce with less sugar, or opt for a vinegar-based BBQ sauce for tanginess.
Veggies: Cabbage adds crunch, but you can substitute with shredded lettuce or spinach. Feel free to add bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor!
Ranch Dressing: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt mixed with herbs or a homemade ranch dressing to control the ingredients.
How Do You Cook Chicken So It’s Juicy and Tender?
Cooking chicken to perfect tenderness can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right:
- Start with even thickness; you can pound the chicken breasts slightly to ensure even cooking.
- Season well! A simple spice mix really brings out the flavor.
- Heat your skillet to medium to avoid burning the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before shredding. This helps the juices redistribute!
BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked brown rice (or white rice)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 cup shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total, including prep and cooking time. You’ll spend about 10 minutes seasoning and cooking the chicken, and 20 minutes assembling your delicious BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mix all over the chicken breasts—make sure they are seasoned evenly.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through (the inside should reach an internal temperature of 165°F / 75°C).
3. Shredding the Chicken:
After your chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Then, toss the shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce until it’s well coated.
4. Assembling Your Bowl:
Start with a base of rice in each bowl. Next, artfully arrange the shredded purple cabbage, green cabbage, black beans, corn, diced tomato, and avocado slices around the edges on top of the rice. Don’t be afraid to make it colorful and fun!
5. Adding the Chicken and Dressing:
Pile the BBQ shredded chicken right in the center of your bowl. Drizzle ranch dressing generously over everything—you want it to be nice and creamy!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor and color. Serve your BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowls immediately, and enjoy the deliciousness!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken, simply shred it and mix it with barbecue sauce. This will save you time and still deliver great flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Dressing?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Greek yogurt mixed with herbs to create a healthy ranch dip. Alternatively, you can use a vinaigrette if you prefer something tangy.
Can I Prep This Bowl in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and prepare the rice ahead of time. Store the veggies and sauce separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just assemble the bowl fresh!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken and any grains gently in the microwave, and enjoy a quick meal!
