Save This Macro Friendly BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl is a powerhouse meal I love to whip up on busy days when I need plenty of protein but still want something bold and satisfying. There is something about the tangy ranch with smoky BBQ sauce and creamy cottage cheese over juicy chicken that just checks all the boxes for flavor and texture. With 42 grams of protein and ready in just 15 minutes, this is my go to for refueling after a workout or enjoying a healthy lunch.
I first created this bowl after a tough workout and was amazed how satisfied it kept me all afternoon.
Ingredients
- Chicken filet: Just Bare or similar provides lean protein and juicy texture choose a filet that is plump and pink with no gray areas
- Low fat cottage cheese: Good Culture or similar brings creaminess and extra protein look for cottage cheese with minimal additives for best flavor
- Ranch dressing: Bolthouse Farms recommended adds herby tang choose a lower calorie brand to keep it light
- BBQ sauce: G Hughes or your choice gives sweet smoky depth opt for sauces with reduced sugar for healthier macros
- Shredded cheddar cheese: reduced fat for savory richness in every bite select a melty cheese with a bright orange color for best flavor impact
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken:
- Grill bake or pan fry your chicken filet over medium high heat until it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This usually takes about six to eight minutes per side depending on thickness. Sear each side well for extra flavor and juicy texture.
- Prepare the Bowl:
- While the chicken cooks scoop half a cup of low fat cottage cheese into your serving bowl. Spread it out a bit to make a bed for the toppings.
- Assemble the Bowl:
- Once your chicken is done and rested for a couple of minutes slice it into bite sized pieces. Layer the warm chicken right over the cottage cheese.
- Sauce It Up:
- Drizzle two tablespoons each of ranch dressing and BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken. Aim for a mix of both sauces in every bite.
- Finish with Cheese:
- Sprinkle two tablespoons of reduced fat shredded cheddar cheese across the top. For an extra melty finish you can pop the whole bowl in the microwave for about thirty seconds.
- Serve or Store:
- Enjoy immediately while everything is fresh and warm. If you are meal prepping cover tightly and chill for up to two days.
Save I genuinely love how cottage cheese makes the bowl so creamy without loads of calories. My sister called this recipe a meal prep game changer after she brought it to work and stayed full until dinner.
Storage Tips
This bowl holds up well in the fridge for up to two days. Keep sauces and cheese separate if you plan to reheat to prevent things from getting soggy. Store in an airtight container for best freshness.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the chicken filet for rotisserie chicken or even air fried tofu for a meat free version. If you cannot find reduced fat cheddar try mozzarella or Colby Jack. Yogurt can stand in for cottage cheese if that is your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Pile in some roasted sweet potato or toss in chopped bell peppers and cucumber for freshness and crunch. Serve with a slice of toasted whole grain bread for a heartier meal. It also pairs well with a simple green salad.
Cultural Touch
Bowls like this take inspiration from American BBQ flavors and the growing trend of high protein meal prepping. It is like a backyard barbecue in a single dish but updated for today’s health minded cooks.
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap in grilled asparagus or carrots in spring Add cherry tomatoes and shredded lettuce in summer Try roasted squash or Brussels sprouts in autumn
Success Stories
My neighbor started making this bowl for her teen after soccer practice and he said he feels more energized than ever. Another friend makes a double batch for work lunches and says it is never boring with so many possible toppings.
Freezer Meal Conversion
While some components freeze well chicken and BBQ sauce together cottage cheese tends to change in texture. For make ahead freezer meals freeze just the cooked chicken and sauces. Add cottage cheese fresh after reheating.
Save When I first made this I learned to use a small nonstick pan for the chicken filet to get a perfect golden sear without extra oil. The combination of warm juicy chicken and cool creamy cheese is unbeatable.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chicken should I use?
A chicken filet such as Just Bare or similar works well. Grill, bake, or pan-fry to your liking.
- → Can I substitute cottage cheese?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or another high-protein dairy option for a similar creamy texture.
- → Are low-calorie sauces necessary?
Low-calorie ranch and BBQ sauces help keep the macros balanced but any preferred brand may be used.
- → How can I add more veggies?
Add fresh cut vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or a side of roasted sweet potatoes for extra crunch.
- → Is this dish good for meal prep?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate the bowl to enjoy for a quick, protein-rich lunch the next day.
- → Can I switch the cheese?
Reduced-fat cheddar is suggested, but any cheese variety can be swapped based on your taste and dietary goals.