If you’re craving a bold, comforting meal that fits seamlessly into a balanced lifestyle, this Macro Friendly BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl delivers big on flavor without overcomplicating dinner. Juicy chicken, creamy cottage cheese, smoky barbecue sauce, and tangy ranch come together in a protein-rich bowl that’s fast, filling, and endlessly customizable. Whether you need a post-workout meal or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe checks every box.
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Ingredients
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken filet (4–6 ounces)
- ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions For Macro Friendly BBQ Ranch Chicken
Cook the Chicken
- Heat a grill, skillet, or oven to medium heat.
- Cook the chicken until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 6–8 minutes per side.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Prepare the Bowl
- Spoon the cottage cheese into a serving bowl and spread evenly.
Assemble
- Slice the rested chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Arrange over the cottage cheese.
- Drizzle evenly with ranch dressing and barbecue sauce.
Finish & Serve
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the warm chicken.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
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Pro Tips
- Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Use finely shredded cheese for better melting.
- Choose bold-flavored sauces so a small amount goes a long way.
- Taste and adjust sauces to match your flavor preference.
Why This Recipe Works
- High-protein and satisfying without feeling heavy
- Quick and simple with minimal prep
- Great for meal prep and busy schedules
- Easily customizable to match your taste
Substitutions & Variations
- Dairy-Free: Swap cottage cheese and cheddar for plant-based alternatives.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh.
- Extra Hearty: Serve over brown rice, quinoa, or roasted potatoes.
- Spicy Kick: Add hot sauce or chili flakes to the BBQ sauce.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide
- Store chicken, cheese, cottage cheese, and sauces separately for best texture.
- Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Assemble just before eating.
- Reheat chicken gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling.
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Serving Ideas for Macro Friendly BBQ Ranch Chicken
- Top with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or shredded carrots
- Add steamed broccoli or roasted peppers for extra volume
- Pair with sparkling water or unsweetened iced tea for a refreshing meal
Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: ~42g
- Fat: ~14g
- Carbohydrates: ~18g
- Fiber: ~2g
Values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Yes, baking works perfectly. Cook at 400°F until the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
Is cottage cheese necessary?
No, you can substitute Greek yogurt or another creamy base if preferred.
What vegetables pair best with this bowl?
Spinach, bell peppers, tomatoes, zucchini, and broccoli all work well.
Can I make this ahead for lunch?
Absolutely. Prep the components ahead and assemble just before eating.
This Macro Friendly BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. With bold flavors, creamy textures, and impressive protein content, it’s a reliable go-to for quick lunches, post-workout fuel, or effortless dinners.
Macro Friendly BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl
Equipment
- grill, skillet, or oven
- serving bowl
- knife
- spoon
Ingredients
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken filet (4–6 ounces)
- 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 2 tbsp ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp barbecue sauce
- 2 tbsp reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Heat a grill, skillet, or oven to medium heat.
- Cook the chicken until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 6–8 minutes per side.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Spoon the cottage cheese into a serving bowl and spread evenly.
- Slice the rested chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Arrange over the cottage cheese.
- Drizzle evenly with ranch dressing and barbecue sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the warm chicken.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Notes
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