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High protein BBQ ranch chicken bowl with grilled chicken strips, corn, black beans, and fresh vegetables topped with creamy sauce

High Protein BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl

A nutritious and flavorful bowl featuring grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy BBQ ranch sauce. Perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners when using pre-cooked grains.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 475

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast 450g
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa 320g, pre-cooked
  • 1 cup corn kernels 150g, fresh, canned, or frozen
  • 1 cup black beans 150g, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes 150g, halved
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion 75g
  • 1/2 cup shredded lettuce or baby spinach 75g
  • 1/4 cup light ranch dressing 60g
  • 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese 30g
  • fresh cilantro or green onions optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • Small mixing bowl
  • Grill pan or skillet
  • Meat thermometer
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Serving bowls

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even 3/4-inch thickness. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides and let marinate for 10 minutes at room temperature.
  2. If using uncooked grains, start your rice or quinoa now as they take 20-45 minutes depending on type. If you have pre-cooked grains ready, you'll stay within the 30-minute timeframe.
  3. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  4. While the chicken rests, prep your vegetables if you haven't already. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the red onion, shred your lettuce, and rinse the black beans. If using frozen corn, microwave it for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Divide the cooked grains between serving bowls. Arrange the corn, black beans, tomatoes, onion, and greens on top in sections. Slice the rested chicken into strips and add to each bowl.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and BBQ sauce until smooth. Drizzle this sauce over each bowl, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.

Notes

Note: 30-minute total time assumes pre-cooked grains. Add 20-45 minutes if cooking rice or quinoa from scratch. Store components separately in airtight containers at 40°F or below for up to 4 days. Keep sauce separate until serving. Can be enjoyed warm or chilled. Add avocado, lime juice, or jalapeños for extra flavor variations.