These BBQ Chicken Rice Bowls are a game-changer for dinner time! Perfectly seasoned chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a homemade BBQ sauce come together to create a bowl that’s bursting with flavors and textures. Ready in just 30 minutes, these colorful, nutritious bowls make weeknight dinners both exciting and manageable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Balanced Meal in One Bowl: These bowls pack protein, veggies, and grains all in one place – no need to prepare separate side dishes!
  • Customizable: Everyone can build their own bowl exactly how they like it, making this perfect for families with different preferences.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Components can be prepped ahead of time, making this ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts.
  • Homemade BBQ Sauce: The scratch-made sauce delivers authentic flavor without the preservatives or excess sugar found in store-bought versions.
BBQ chicken rice bowls

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Chicken breasts: The star protein that soaks up the delicious BBQ seasoning. Slice them thinly to ensure quick, even cooking.
  • BBQ seasoning blend: A beautiful mix of smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, minced onion, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper that creates that classic BBQ flavor profile. Make extra to keep on hand for future meals!
  • Homemade BBQ sauce: The combination of tomato sauce, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and spices creates a sauce that’s tangy, sweet, and smoky all at once. So much better than anything from a bottle!
  • Red cabbage: Provides a satisfying crunch and beautiful color contrast. It slightly softens when cooked but maintains some texture.
  • Carrots: Adds natural sweetness, vibrant color, and nutritional value to your bowl.
  • Cucumber: Offers a refreshing crunch and coolness that balances the warm, spicy elements.
  • Avocado: Contributes creamy richness and healthy fats that make the bowl more satisfying.
  • Rice: Creates a hearty base that soaks up all the delicious sauce. Brown rice works great for a nutritional boost!
  • Avocado oil: Has a high smoke point, making it perfect for searing the chicken at higher temperatures.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Protein Options

Swap chicken for salmon, shrimp, tofu, or black beans for different protein options.

Grain Alternatives

Replace rice with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or farro for different nutritional profiles and textures.

Veggie Swaps

Try roasted sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or corn for seasonal variations.

Spice Level

Adjust the chili powder or add hot sauce to customize the heat level to your preference.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Rice Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Seasonings

Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, dried minced onion, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to create your BBQ seasoning blend. Mix thoroughly to ensure all spices are well incorporated.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle the BBQ seasoning liberally over both sides of your thinly sliced chicken breasts, gently pressing it into the meat to help it adhere.

Step 3: Make the BBQ Sauce

In a medium saucepan, combine tomato sauce, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, dried minced onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth, then let the sauce simmer over low heat while you cook the chicken. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat avocado oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 4 minutes on each side until they develop a nice sear. Remove the chicken and set aside temporarily.

Step 5: Prepare the Vegetables

With the skillet off the heat but still hot, add the shredded cabbage and carrots to the pan. The residual heat will start to slightly soften the vegetables while they pick up the flavorful bits left from cooking the chicken.

Step 6: Combine and Finish in Oven

Place the seared chicken on top of the bed of vegetables and brush each piece generously with the BBQ sauce. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10 minutes, then broil for an additional 5 minutes to caramelize the sauce.

Step 7: Final Assembly

Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the chicken to a cutting board. Slice it into bite-sized pieces. Assemble your bowls by starting with a base of rice, adding the cabbage-carrot mixture, then the chicken pieces. Top with fresh cucumber slices, avocado, and a final drizzle of the remaining BBQ sauce.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Cast Iron Cooking: Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet for the best sear on the chicken and easy transition from stovetop to oven.
  • Chicken Thickness: Slice chicken to an even thickness to ensure it cooks at the same rate throughout.
  • BBQ Sauce Consistency: If your sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
  • Vegetable Prep: Shred your cabbage and carrots in advance to save time on busy nights.
  • Rice Timing: Start your rice cooking first, as it can keep warm while you prepare the other components.

How to Serve

Family Style

Serve components in separate bowls and let everyone build their own bowl exactly as they like it.

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, lime wedges, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds make excellent final touches.

Sauce Options

Offer additional sauces like sriracha, ranch dressing, or a simple lime crema for family members who want to customize their flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Meal Prep Instructions

Prepare all components according to the recipe. Store the cooked chicken, vegetables, and rice in separate containers. When ready to eat, reheat the components and add fresh cucumber and avocado just before serving.

Storing Leftovers

Store assembled bowls (without cucumber and avocado) in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Components

The seasoned, cooked chicken and BBQ sauce freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Tips

Microwave leftovers with a damp paper towel on top to prevent the rice from drying out, or reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.

FAQs

  1. Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce instead of making my own?

    Absolutely! While the homemade version offers better flavor control and usually less sugar, a good quality store-bought BBQ sauce works perfectly when you’re short on time. Look for one with minimal additives and sugars for the best results.

  2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

    This bowl adapts beautifully to a vegetarian diet. Replace the chicken with firm tofu (press it first to remove excess moisture), tempeh, or a hearty mushroom like portobello. Season and cook these alternatives just as you would the chicken, adjusting cooking times as needed.

  3. Is there a way to make this recipe faster on busy weeknights?

    Several shortcuts can help! Use pre-shredded vegetables, cook the rice ahead of time or use microwaveable rice packets, and consider making a larger batch of the BBQ seasoning and sauce to keep on hand. You can also meal prep components on the weekend.

  4. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot or slow cooker?

    Yes! For the Instant Pot, season the chicken, add the sauce ingredients, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes with a quick release. Shred the chicken and continue with assembling the bowls. For a slow cooker, combine chicken with sauce ingredients and cook on low for 6 hours before shredding.

Final Thoughts

These BBQ Chicken Rice Bowls truly deliver flavor without fuss. They’ve become a regular in my dinner rotation because they hit that perfect balance of healthy, satisfying, and quick to prepare. The combination of smoky BBQ chicken, crunchy vegetables, and creamy avocado creates a meal that feels special enough for guests but simple enough for everyday dinners. Give these vibrant bowls a try – they might just become your new family favorite!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

BBQ Chicken Rice Bowls Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 Bowls 1x
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

A wholesome, flavor-packed BBQ chicken rice bowl that’s easy to cook and perfect for meal prep. Enjoy tender seasoned chicken paired with vibrant veggies, creamy avocado slices, and the sweet tanginess of homemade barbecue sauce, all served atop a bed of rice. Perfect for a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Units Scale

BBQ Seasoning

  • 1 Tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 Tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried minced onion
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

BBQ Sauce

  • 1 15–ounce can tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1/8 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 Tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 Tablespoon dried minced onion
  • 1 Tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Barbecue Chicken Bowls

  • 1 pound chicken breasts, sliced thinly
  • 1 Tablespoon avocado oil
  • 4 cups shredded red cabbage
  • 2 cups shredded carrots, or 1 8-ounce bag
  • 1 cup diced cucumber
  • 1 avocado
  • 2 cups cooked rice

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven
    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking throughout the recipe.
  2. Prepare BBQ Seasoning
    Combine all the seasoning ingredients into a small bowl and mix well. Ensure everything is evenly incorporated for a balanced flavor.
  3. Season the Chicken
    Sprinkle the chicken breasts with the prepared BBQ seasoning, ensuring both sides are well coated.
  4. Make the BBQ Sauce
    In a medium saucepan, whisk together all the BBQ sauce ingredients. Simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld while cooking the chicken.
  5. Cook the Chicken
    Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add avocado oil. Sear the seasoned chicken breasts for 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  6. Sauté the Vegetables
    Remove the skillet from heat and add shredded cabbage and carrots to the hot skillet. Toss them lightly to wilt and absorb flavor.
  7. Bake the Chicken
    Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the sautéed veggies. Coat the chicken with some prepared BBQ sauce and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 10 minutes.
  8. Broil for Finish
    After baking, switch your oven to broil mode. Broil the chicken for an additional 5 minutes for a caramelized and slightly charred finish.
  9. Prepare the Chicken and Assemble Bowls
    Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the chicken to a cutting board. Slice chicken into bite-sized pieces. In serving bowls, layer the cooked rice, cabbage, carrots, diced chicken, fresh cucumbers, avocado slices, and drizzle with the remaining BBQ sauce.

Notes

  • To Meal Prep:
    • Follow the recipe to cook the BBQ chicken and vegetables.
    • Cook a large batch of rice separately.
    • Divide rice, BBQ chicken, and vegetables among meal prep containers. Drizzle extra BBQ sauce over each serving.
  • When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave and add fresh cucumber slices and avocado for a refreshing finish.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 Serving
  • Calories: 450kcal
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
Avatar photo

Hi, I’m Lisa Denton! From quick dinners to family favorites, I’m here to help you bring joy to the table, one recipe at a time.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star