Craving a quick, satisfying meal that packs a protein punch?
Imagine tucking into a High Protein BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl: tender chicken, creamy cottage cheese, zesty ranch dressing, and a drizzle of smoky BBQ sauce. Sounds divine, right? This recipe whips up in a flash, keeping your kitchen blissfully mess-free. You won’t believe how easy it is to create a dish that’s both hearty and healthy, making it a weeknight favorite.
Why make this recipe
This one-bowl wonder is a lifesaver for busy weeknights! Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Easy Cleanup: Just one bowl and an air fryer – who doesn’t love less scrubbing? 🙌
- Affordable Ingredients: You can make this delicious meal without breaking the bank. Your wallet will thank you!
- Family-Friendly: Kid-approved flavors mean you can please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 1 Just Bare (or similar) chicken filet
- ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese (I go with Good Culture brand)
- 2 tbsp Ranch dressing (I go with Bolthouse Farms)
- 2 tbsp BBQ sauce (I go with G.Hughes)
- 2 tbsp shredded cheddar cheese, reduced fat
Directions
Whipping up your High Protein BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl is as easy as 1, 2, 3!
- Cook the chicken breast in the air fryer for 10–12 minutes at 400 degrees. Once cooked, chop it into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- In a small bowl, stir together the cottage cheese and ranch dressing until smooth.
- Add the cottage cheese mixture to your serving dish and top with the chopped chicken.
- Drizzle with BBQ sauce and sprinkle shredded cheddar on top.
- Pop the dish into the microwave for 60 seconds. Stir and enjoy your delicious meal!
How to make High Protein BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl (Overview)
Ready to dig in? Here’s a quick rundown on the magic of this dish:
- Cook the chicken: Air fry your chicken until perfectly tender.
- Mix up your sauce: Combine cottage cheese and ranch for that creamy goodness.
- Assemble the bowl: Layer everything up with chicken, BBQ sauce, and a sprinkle of cheese.
- Heat and serve: Microwave for just a minute, and you’re good to go!
Pro tips: Don’t skip chopping the chicken into smaller pieces; it makes for a better bite!
How to serve High Protein BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl
This bowl is not just a meal; it’s a flavor fiesta! Serve it warm, and watch the BBQ sauce glisten as you sprinkle fresh herbs on top for that pop of color. Pair it with a crunchy side salad or some roasted veggies for extra texture. The aroma wafting from the bowl? Pure comfort food heaven! 😋
How to store High Protein BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl
Want leftovers? This dish keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. In terms of freezing, make sure to store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, just reheat it in the microwave until piping hot. Easy peasy!
Tips to make High Protein BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl
Here are some insider tips to amp up your bowl:
- Add extra veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or broccoli for extra crunch!
- Swap in Greek yogurt for the cottage cheese for a tangy twist.
- If you love spice, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the BBQ drizzle.
Variation
Feeling adventurous? Make it vegan by substituting the chicken with chickpeas and using a plant-based ranch dressing. You can even switch up the BBQ sauce for teriyaki to give it an Asian twist!
FAQs
Can I make this a meal prep option?
Absolutely! Just make separate portions and store them in meal prep containers for quick, grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
What can I substitute for ranch dressing?
Try a yogurt-based dressing or a splash of lemon juice mixed with Dijon mustard for a lighter flavor!
Can I use frozen chicken?
Sure! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking to get that perfect texture.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
High Protein BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 piece Just Bare chicken filet
- ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese Recommended brand: Good Culture
- 2 tablespoons Ranch dressing Recommended brand: Bolthouse Farms
- 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce Recommended brand: G.Hughes
- 2 tablespoons shredded cheddar cheese, reduced fat
Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
- Cook the chicken breast in the air fryer for 10–12 minutes at 400 degrees. Once cooked, chop it into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Preparing the Sauce
- In a small bowl, stir together the cottage cheese and ranch dressing until smooth.
Assembling the Bowl
- Add the cottage cheese mixture to your serving dish and top with the chopped chicken.
- Drizzle with BBQ sauce and sprinkle shredded cheddar on top.
Heating and Serving
- Pop the dish into the microwave for 60 seconds. Stir and enjoy your delicious meal!
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
Want just the essential recipe details without scrolling through the article? Get our printable recipe card with just the ingredients and instructions.