Loaded BBQ Chicken Power Bowl
Smoky BBQ chicken served over a nourishing base of grains, fresh veggies, beans, and avocado, then drizzled with creamy ranch or tangy BBQ sauce. It’s filling, customizable, and perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the BBQ Chicken
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup BBQ sauce
For the Bowl Base
2 cups cooked brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
1 cup black beans
1 cup corn kernels
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup shredded lettuce or spinach
1 avocado, sliced
Optional Toppings
½ cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
2 tbsp red onion, thinly sliced
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Creamy ranch or Greek yogurt drizzle
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
Rub chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Grill or pan-sear for 5–6 minutes per side, until cooked through (165°F / 74°C).
During the last 2 minutes, brush generously with BBQ sauce.
Let rest, then slice into strips.
Step 2: Prepare the Base
Cook rice or quinoa according to package instructions.
Warm black beans and corn in a skillet (optional: season with cumin and lime juice for extra flavor).
Step 3: Assemble the Power Bowl
Divide rice/quinoa between 4 bowls.
Top with BBQ chicken slices, black beans, corn, tomatoes, lettuce/spinach, and avocado.
Sprinkle with cheese and red onion if using.
Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce and/or ranch.
Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Notes & Tips
Low-carb option: Use cauliflower rice as the base.
Extra crunch: Add tortilla strips or roasted chickpeas.
Meal prep friendly: Store components separately and assemble when ready to eat.
Protein swap: Try pulled pork, shrimp, or tofu with BBQ sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Yes—bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, brushing with BBQ sauce halfway through.
Q: What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?
Any smoky-sweet sauce works. For a Mediterranean twist, try a honey-herb BBQ sauce.
Q: How long do leftovers last?
Up to 3 days in the fridge. Keep avocado and dressing separate until serving.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~570
Protein: 42g
Carbs: 52g
Fat: 21g
Fiber: 8g
Calcium: 180mg