This BBQ Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl is a fun twist on a hearty meal! Filled with juicy chicken, creamy cottage cheese, and tasty BBQ sauce, it’s a quick and satisfying dinner.
Plus, it’s perfect for those busy nights when you want something easy. I love tossing in some fresh veggies for crunch. Who knew healthy could be this tasty? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is ideal for this dish since it cooks quickly. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken makes a great substitute and adds a nice flavor.
Barbecue Sauce: Any favorite BBQ sauce works, but consider using a low-sugar version if you’re watching your sugar intake. You can also try homemade sauces for a fresh taste!
Cottage Cheese: Cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein. If you’re not a fan, Greek yogurt is a wonderful alternative. It’s thick and packed with protein too!
Avo and Veggies: The avocado adds healthy fats. If avocados aren’t in season, try using guacamole or some sliced almonds for crunch. You can switch any veggies based on what you have on hand, like bell peppers or corn!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Well-Cooked?
Cooking chicken can seem tricky, but there are some simple steps to keep it juicy and flavorful. Here’s what I do:
- Start with pre-heated grill or skillet. This seals in moisture.
- Let the chicken cook undisturbed to develop a nice sear, then flip just once.
- Brushing on BBQ sauce towards the end enhances flavor without burning.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender.
BBQ Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/2 cup shredded carrot
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- Fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl takes about 20 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and about 10 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and easy meal that provides a healthy balance of protein, veggies, and flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides for flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Brush the chicken with olive oil and place it in the hot pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until it’s cooked through and has a nice, slightly charred surface. Don’t forget to be careful not to overcook it!
3. Add the BBQ Sauce:
During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken generously with your barbecue sauce to let it caramelize, adding a fantastic flavor and sticky glaze!
4. Slice the Chicken:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it into strips to make it easy to add to the bowls.
5. Assemble the Bowls:
In individual serving bowls, start by adding a bed of cooked white rice. This will serve as the hearty base for your bowl.
6. Add the Chicken:
Place the sliced barbecue chicken on top of the rice, making sure it’s arranged nicely.
7. Top with Cottage Cheese:
Add dollops of cottage cheese around the chicken, and if you like, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese over the top for extra flavor.
8. Add Fresh Veggies:
Next, pile on the chopped cucumber, shredded carrot, sliced red onion, and avocado slices around the bowl for color and crunch.
9. Garnish:
Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for that burst of freshness that really ties everything together.
10. Drizzle and Serve:
Finally, drizzle some plain Greek yogurt or sour cream over the entire bowl for extra creaminess. Serve immediately and enjoy every bite of your BBQ Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Just shred or chop the chicken into pieces, warm it up slightly, and add it to your bowl for a quick meal.
Can I Substitute the Cottage Cheese?
Yes! If you prefer, you can use Greek yogurt for a similar creaminess or even ricotta cheese. Both options will give you a delicious texture and flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. The chicken can dry out, so consider adding a splash of water or more sauce during reheating.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables—corn, bell peppers, or even some sautéed spinach can elevate the bowl and add more nutrients and color.
