This BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl is a tasty mix of tender chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and creamy ranch dressing. Add some fresh veggies, and you’ve got a colorful meal in one bowl!
It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a fun lunch! I love how easy it is to make—just toss everything together and enjoy a delicious bite that feels like a BBQ party in your mouth! 🍗🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brown Rice: This serves as a healthy base for the bowl. If you’re short on time, you can also use white rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. It’s juicy and full of flavor! If you’re vegetarian, consider using grilled tempeh or jackfruit as a chicken substitute.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose a sauce that you love! You can go for a smoky variety or a tangy sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try making a homemade version with tomato paste, vinegar, and spices.
Ranch Dressing: Feel free to use any ranch dressing, or try a yogurt-based one for lighter calories. You can even make a homemade ranch using yogurt, herbs, and spices.
How Do I Perfectly Layer My BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl?
Layering your ingredients is key for a good BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with the brown rice at the bottom to soak up the flavors.
- Next, pile on the shredded BBQ chicken in the center—this keeps it juicy.
- Surround the chicken with sections of cheese, veggies, and avocado to create color and texture.
- Finally, drizzle ranch dressing over the top and finish with a sprinkle of cilantro for that fresh taste.
Feel free to customize the layers by including your favorite toppings! Enjoy the process as much as the meal itself! 😊
BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Base:
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- For the Chicken:
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, shredded
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup black olives, chopped
- 1/2 cup diced tomato
- 1/2 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Time Estimate:
This BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy meal option! You’ll spend a few minutes cooking the rice, shredding the chicken, and assembling the bowl. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brown Rice:
Start by cooking your brown rice according to the package instructions. Once it’s ready, keep it warm while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Shred the Chicken:
Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce until it’s well coated and fully blended.
3. Assemble the Bowl:
In a large serving bowl, layer the warm brown rice as your base. This is the foundation of your BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl.
4. Add the Chicken:
Next, place the shredded BBQ chicken right in the center of the rice. Make sure it’s evenly distributed for a tasty bite in every scoop!
5. Top it Off:
Now, sprinkle sections of shredded cheddar cheese, red onion, black olives, diced tomato, and avocado around the chicken. This adds great color and flavor to your bowl.
6. Dress it Up:
Drizzle ranch dressing evenly over the top of the assembled ingredients. You can add as little or as much as you like, depending on your taste!
7. Garnish:
Finish your bowl by sprinkling freshly chopped cilantro on top. It adds a lovely fresh flavor and looks beautiful!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl is now ready to serve! Dive in and enjoy the yummy mix of flavors and textures!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Bowl?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Just shred it and mix with barbecue sauce to keep things quick and easy!
How Can I Make This Bowl Vegetarian?
If you want a vegetarian version, try using shredded jackfruit or sautéed mushrooms as a substitute for chicken. You can also amp up the veggies to create a hearty meal!
Can I Prepare This Bowl in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the components ahead of time! Store cooked rice, BBQ chicken, and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Assemble the bowl just before serving for the freshest taste!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl components in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the rice and chicken in the microwave and top with fresh veggies before serving!
