This BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl is a fun and tasty meal! It combines juicy chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and creamy ranch dressing all piled on top of your favorite grains.
It’s like a party in a bowl! I love adding crunchy veggies for some color and texture. Trust me, you’ll want to make this for lunch or dinner—so easy and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe because they’re juicy and cook quickly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breast works well too!
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or make your own! If you want a spicier kick, try a chipotle BBQ sauce. For a healthier option, look for low-sugar versions.
Rice: Any cooked rice will do. I like brown rice for its nuttiness, but cauliflower rice is a great low-carb substitute. You can even use quinoa for some extra protein!
Corn: Fresh corn is best in summer, but frozen sweet corn is a great year-round option. If you’re avoiding corn, try black beans for added protein and texture.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a lovely touch, but if you’re not a fan, you can use parsley instead. Just chop it finely to keep that fresh flavor!
How Do I Get Perfectly Seasoned Chicken?
Getting your chicken well-seasoned is key for great flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by mixing olive oil with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper—this creates a flavorful coating.
- Be generous when you rub the seasoning into the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated.
- Cook the chicken until it’s fully done, and don’t skip the step of brushing it with BBQ sauce at the end. This caramelization adds depth to the flavor!
- Remember to let the chicken rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy. Slicing right away can make it dry.
BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/3 cup ranch dressing
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. All together, this delicious BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl takes around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Cooking Surface:
Start by preheating your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. This helps to sear the chicken nicely and lock in flavor.
2. Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well, then coat the chicken breasts evenly with this seasoning mixture. Make sure every inch is covered for maximum flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken on the grill or in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is no longer pink inside.
4. Glaze with BBQ Sauce:
During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with barbecue sauce. Flip it once to let the sauce caramelize, giving your chicken a sticky, sweet glaze that is absolutely delicious!
5. Prepare and Slice:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. After resting, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
6. Assemble the Bowl:
To serve, divide the cooked rice evenly among bowls. Top with corn, diced tomatoes, diced red onion, and the sliced BBQ chicken. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Add the Finishing Touches:
Drizzle ranch dressing all over the top of each bowl and finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro!
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve immediately and dig in! This BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for any casual gathering or family dinner.
Can I Use a Different Protein for This Bowl?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chicken with cooked shredded beef, pulled pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave the bowl or warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Bowl Ahead of Time?
You can prep the components in advance! Cook the chicken and rice, and chop the veggies ahead of time. Just assemble the bowls with ranch dressing and cheese right before serving for the best flavor and texture!
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Dressing?
If ranch isn’t your thing, you can swap it for Greek yogurt, a vinaigrette, or any dressing you enjoy! For a spicy kick, try adding a chipotle mayo or a zesty avocado dressing.