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.

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.

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.

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.

BBQ Chicken Rice Bowls 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

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking throughout the recipe.
Prepare BBQ Seasoning
Combine all the seasoning ingredients into a small bowl and mix well. Ensure everything is evenly incorporated for a balanced flavor.
Season the Chicken
Sprinkle the chicken breasts with the prepared BBQ seasoning, ensuring both sides are well coated.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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