This BBQ Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl is a tasty mix of shredded chicken, smooth cottage cheese, and your favorite BBQ sauce. It’s perfect for a quick meal that fills you up!
I love how easy it is to make. Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a delicious bowl. It’s a great way to sneak in some protein while enjoying that smoky BBQ flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts give a lean protein source. If you prefer, you can use thighs for extra flavor, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Barbecue Sauce: A key flavor component, but feel free to use homemade or low-sugar versions if you’re watching your sugar intake. Different sauces like teriyaki can change the flavor profile nicely.
Cottage Cheese: This adds creaminess and protein. If you don’t like cottage cheese, consider Greek yogurt for a similar texture and nutrition boost.
Rice: I usually go for brown rice for extra fiber, but cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative. Quinoa also works well if you’re looking for variety!
Cilantro: I love the fresh flavor it brings, but if you’re not a fan, parsley or green onions can be good substitutes.
How Do I Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can be easy with a few tips! Start by ensuring your grill is hot before placing the chicken on. This helps to sear the meat and keep it juicy.
- Season well with salt and pepper before grilling.
- Brush with BBQ sauce just before cooking to avoid burning the sugars.
- Monitor the temperature; chicken is done at 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking; this locks in moisture. Then chop it right before adding it to your bowl!
BBQ Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced red onions
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
- 1 cup mixed greens or spinach
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or cotija cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream or ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
Start by preheating your grill or a skillet over medium heat. While it’s heating up, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste. Then, brush both sides of the chicken breasts with your favorite barbecue sauce for added flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken on the grill or skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice, charred look. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
3. Let It Rest and Chop:
Once the chicken is done, take it off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to settle. After resting, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces so it’s easy to mix into your bowl.
4. Build Your Bowl:
In a large bowl, start with a base of mixed greens or spinach. Then, artfully arrange the cooked rice, cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, sliced red onion, and avocado around the greens. Each ingredient adds a fresh crunch and flavor!
5. Add the Chicken and Cottage Cheese:
Top your colorful veggie base with the chopped BBQ chicken. Then, spoon cottage cheese generously over the top for a creamy texture. This adds a protein boost!
6. Finish It Off:
Drizzle sour cream or ranch dressing over the entire bowl for extra flavor. Finally, sprinkle crumbled feta or cotija cheese, along with chopped cilantro, to add a finishing touch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your BBQ Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl is ready! Serve it immediately and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures. Yum!
This bowl packs smoky BBQ goodness, creamy cottage cheese, and fresh veggies into each bite. Perfect for a quick meal that’s nutritious and satisfying!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just make sure to warm it up gently before adding it to the bowl, as this will enhance the flavors and keep the other ingredients fresh.
How Can I Make This Bowl Vegetarian?
To make this bowl vegetarian, you can replace the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for protein. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to bulk it up!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Like Cottage Cheese?
No problem! If cottage cheese isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or even hummus. Both options add creaminess and a good dose of protein!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If using dressing, it’s best to keep it separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent sogginess. Reheat gently before serving!