There’s nothing quite like a delicious High Protein BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl after a long day. As someone who’s always on the lookout for healthy yet satisfying meals, this dish has become a staple in my kitchen. Not only is it packed with protein, thanks to the chicken and cottage cheese, but it’s also incredibly quick to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re not sure what to make.
The combination of flavors here is simply fantastic. The creamy ranch dressing blends beautifully with the tangy BBQ sauce, embracing the tender chicken pieces. With just the right amount of cheese for a satisfying finish, this bowl offers a delightful texture contrast that keeps you coming back for more. It’s also an excellent option for anyone looking to enjoy a filling meal without compromising on nutrition.
Why you’ll love this
- Quick cooking time makes it a weeknight favorite.
- Packed with protein to fuel your day.
- Perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
- Customizable based on your taste preferences.
- Simple clean-up means fewer dishes to wash.
"A delicious way to enjoy a protein-packed meal in no time!"
Step-by-step overview
Preparing this dish is a breeze! You’ll start by cooking the chicken in an air fryer until it’s fully cooked. While that’s happening, mix together cottage cheese and ranch dressing, then assemble everything in a serving dish before giving it a quick zap in the microwave.
What you’ll need
- 1 Just Bare (or similar) chicken filet
- ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 2 tbsp Ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp Shredded cheddar cheese, reduced fat
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Chicken filet: Use any lean chicken breast for a healthier alternative.
- Cottage cheese: Greek yogurt can be a good substitute for a different texture.
- Ranch dressing: Homemade ranch is a fresh alternative without preservatives.
- BBQ sauce: Various brands offer low-sugar options for a healthier choice.
Cooking method
This dish can be prepared in just a few straightforward steps, allowing you to enjoy your meal in less time than it takes to order takeout.
- Cook the chicken breast in an air fryer until it is golden and fully cooked, about 10-12 minutes at 400 degrees.
- Chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- In a small bowl, stir together the cottage cheese and ranch dressing until creamy.
- Add the cottage cheese mixture to your serving dish and top it with the chopped chicken.
- Drizzle BBQ sauce over the chicken and finish with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Place the dish in the microwave for 60 seconds, then stir and enjoy!
Pro Tip: Make sure the chicken is cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can also let it rest for a couple of minutes before chopping to retain the juices.
Visual clues for doneness include a golden-brown exterior on the chicken and a creamy consistency of the cottage cheese mix.
Helpful cooking tips
- When using an air fryer, ensure the chicken is not overcrowded for even cooking.
- Let the cooked chicken rest before chopping; this helps retain moisture for a juicier bite.
- Stir the cottage cheese and ranch dressing to thoroughly combine flavors.
- Customize your BBQ sauce for additional spices or sweetness.
- Pair this meal with a side of steamed veggies for added nutrition.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving this bowl can be as simple or elaborate as you wish. I like to finish it with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness. Consider serving it alongside a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables for a more rounded meal. The flavors blend exceptionally well with a slice of whole grain bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Storage & reheating tips
If you have leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish tastes great the next day too! To reheat, just pop it in the microwave until steaming hot. The combination of flavors often deepens as it rests, making it more enjoyable.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
If you find the chicken is dry, it may have been overcooked. To prevent dryness, monitor the cooking time closely in the air fryer. If the dish turns out bland, try adding more seasoning to the chicken or a splash of hot sauce to elevate the flavors. In case the cottage cheese mixture is too thick, thinning it out with a bit of milk can create a smoother consistency. If it gets soggy, serve immediately after assembling to maintain that crunch from your cheese.
Creative twists
There are many ways to customize this bowl to keep it fresh and exciting. Add diced bell peppers or red onion for extra crunch. Swap out the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile, or even omit the cheese entirely for a dairy-free option. You could also layer in some quinoa or brown rice to increase the fiber content and make it even more filling.
Common questions
Can I make this bowl ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and make the cottage cheese mixture in advance. Just store separate components in the fridge and assemble when ready to eat.
What can I serve with this dish?
This bowl pairs wonderfully with a side salad or roasted vegetables. You might consider serving it over brown rice or quinoa for a more substantial meal.
How do I customize the protein?
Feel free to swap out the chicken for other proteins like turkey meatballs, tofu, or even shredded pork for a different flavor.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! The flavors are appealing for both adults and kids, and it’s an easy way to sneak in some protein and veggies.
Can I use different sauces?
Certainly! Experiment with different dressing and sauce combinations, like a honey mustard or a spicy salsa for a zesty punch.
This High Protein BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl has quickly become one of my go-to meals not only because of its delicious taste but also for how simple and quick it is to put together. It checks all the boxes for flavor, appeal, and nutrition. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy the wonderful balance of savory and creamy in every satisfying bite!
High Protein BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the chicken breast in an air fryer at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
- Chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- In a small bowl, stir together the cottage cheese and ranch dressing until creamy.
- Add the cottage cheese mixture to your serving dish and top it with the chopped chicken.
- Drizzle BBQ sauce over the chicken and finish with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Place the dish in the microwave for 60 seconds, then stir and enjoy!