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BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl Recipe

4.6 from 88 reviews

This BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl is a flavorful and hearty meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Featuring juicy grilled chicken glazed with barbecue sauce, served over cooked rice with fresh corn, tomatoes, red onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and drizzled with creamy ranch dressing, this bowl combines smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors with fresh, crunchy vegetables for a satisfying and balanced dish.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Cooking Surface: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat to ensure a good sear and lock in the chicken’s flavor.
  2. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with this seasoning for maximum flavor.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken on the grill or skillet, cooking 5-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is no longer pink inside.
  4. Glaze with BBQ Sauce: In the last few minutes, brush barbecue sauce on the chicken, flipping once to caramelize the sauce, creating a sticky, sweet glaze.
  5. Prepare and Slice: Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
  6. Assemble the Bowl: Divide cooked rice evenly into bowls, then top with corn, diced tomatoes, diced red onion, and sliced BBQ chicken. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
  7. Add the Finishing Touches: Drizzle ranch dressing over each bowl and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.
  8. Enjoy Your Meal: Serve immediately and enjoy this hearty, delicious BBQ Chicken Ranch Bowl perfect for any casual gathering or family dinner.

Notes

  • Substitute chicken with shredded beef, pulled pork, or tofu for a different protein option; adjust cooking times accordingly.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
  • Prepare chicken, rice, and veggies ahead of time and assemble bowls just before serving for best freshness.
  • If ranch dressing is not preferred, swap with Greek yogurt, vinaigrette, chipotle mayo, or avocado dressing for variety.

Keywords: BBQ chicken bowl, ranch dressing bowl, grilled chicken recipe, quick weeknight dinner, barbecue chicken, chicken rice bowl