Why Make This Recipe
BBQ Protein Bowls are a fantastic meal that combines delicious flavors and balanced nutrition. They are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty barbecue sauce creates a satisfying dish that is sure to please everyone.
How to Make BBQ Protein Bowls
Ingredients:
- 2 cups barbecue sauce
- 1/3 cup orange juice
- 1 tsp. cumin
- 1/2 tsp. chili powder
- 3 cloves garlic, minced and divided
- 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
- 1 cup kale, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
- 1/2 cup pickle chips
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, orange juice, cumin, chili powder, and 2 cloves of garlic. Set aside 1/4 cup of this mixture for serving later.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for 8 minutes, then flip them over. Pour 3/4 of the barbecue sauce mixture over the chicken and cook for another 8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate. After a few minutes, slice it into cubes and let it cool.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and the remaining garlic.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped kale, shredded cabbage, and shredded carrots. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss them until they are evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- To build the bowls, divide the cooked brown rice among 4 bowls. Top each bowl with the sliced chicken, slaw, thawed corn, and pickle chips. Drizzle the reserved barbecue sauce on top and serve.
How to Serve BBQ Protein Bowls
BBQ Protein Bowls are best served fresh and warm. You can enjoy them as a hearty lunch or a filling dinner. Each bowl is colorful and appetizing, making them perfect for a family meal or a casual get-together with friends. Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste.
How to Store BBQ Protein Bowls
If you have leftovers, you can store the components separately. Place the chicken, slaw, rice, and any other toppings in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will last about 3-4 days, while the slaw can last about 2-3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in a microwave or skillet before assembling your bowl again.
Tips to Make BBQ Protein Bowls
- Make sure to use a good quality barbecue sauce for the best flavor.
- You can grill the chicken for a smoky flavor instead of cooking it in a skillet.
- Feel free to add more vegetables or swap out ingredients according to what you like.
- If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the slaw.
Variation
You can easily switch up the protein used in this recipe. Instead of chicken, try using grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also incorporate different grains, like quinoa or cauliflower rice, to add variety.
FAQs
1. Can I make BBQ Protein Bowls in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken, slaw, and rice in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat.
2. How do I make the sauce spicier?
To add more heat, consider mixing in some hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or additional chili powder to the barbecue sauce mixture.
3. What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the slaw?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette dressing for the mayonnaise to make a healthier slaw.
