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BBQ Chicken Bowls

BBQ Chicken Bowls

BBQ Chicken Bowls are a flavorful, easy-to-make meal combining tender smoky chicken, vibrant veggies, and hearty grains. Perfect for lunch or dinner, these bowls deliver a balanced, nutritious, and customizable dish with minimal prep and maximum taste, ideal for busy days and meal prepping.

Ingredients

Protein

  • Chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, 1-1.5 lbs)
  • BBQ sauce (1/2 to 3/4 cup, your favorite brand or homemade)

Grains

  • Cooked rice or quinoa (2 cups cooked)

Vegetables & Legumes

  • Corn kernels (1 cup, fresh or frozen)
  • Black beans (1 cup, drained and rinsed)
  • Bell peppers (1 cup, diced)
  • Red onion (1/4 cup, finely diced)
  • Cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped)
  • Lime wedges (from 1 lime)

Seasonings & Oil

  • Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Season chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. Brush generously with BBQ sauce. Grill or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked and tender, basting once halfway through with more sauce.
  2. Cook the grains: While the chicken cooks, prepare rice or quinoa according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and season lightly with salt and a splash of olive oil for extra flavor.
  3. Roast or sauté vegetables: Toss diced bell peppers, corn, and black beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven alongside the chicken for 15 minutes or sauté in a hot pan until veggies are tender but vibrant.
  4. Assemble the bowls: Slice cooked chicken into strips or cubes. Layer cooked grains at the bottom of each bowl. Add roasted vegetables, chicken pieces, then sprinkle chopped red onion and cilantro on top. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken in BBQ sauce for 30 minutes before cooking for richer flavor.
  • Use fresh vegetables and herbs for the best freshness and flavor.
  • Do not overcook chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Add texture contrast by topping with toasted seeds or crispy tortilla strips.
  • A squeeze of lime or sprinkle of cheese balances smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken bowls, easy dinner, meal prep, healthy bowls, gluten free chicken bowl, smoky chicken recipe