BBQ Chicken Power Bowl

The smoky aroma of grilled BBQ chicken fills the air, adding a deliciously savory note to every bite of this power bowl. Tender, juicy chicken, coated in a tangy-sweet barbecue sauce, brings a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the freshness of the vegetables. As the chicken caramelizes on the grill, those crispy, charred edges offer a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy avocado and cool, crisp greens. There’s something about the balance of smoky, sweet, and savory that just makes every forkful feel like a celebration.

The vibrant colors from the roasted corn, cherry tomatoes, and red onions not only make the bowl look inviting but also provide a burst of flavor with each bite. It’s the kind of dish that feels like summer on a plate, even on the busiest of weeknights. Plus, the warm, hearty chicken pairs perfectly with a bed of quinoa or brown rice, offering a solid base to hold all those incredible flavors together. Every ingredient in this bowl has its own story to tell, working together to create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is wholesome.

As the sauce drizzles over everything, it’s the kind of dish that makes you feel good—both from the inside out and from every little burst of flavor that dances on your tongue. And don’t forget to add a few extra scoops of that BBQ sauce! A little more never hurt anyone, especially when the sauce is this good. It’s the perfect way to elevate a simple meal into something truly memorable.

Key Ingredients in BBQ Chicken Power Bowl

Each ingredient in this BBQ Chicken Power Bowl plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s both comforting and vibrant. From the juicy grilled chicken to the fresh veggies and hearty quinoa, every bite is a combination of textures and flavors that make the meal truly satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need to bring all these flavors together:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! Tender and lean, these chicken breasts are perfect for grilling and soaking up all the delicious BBQ sauce, providing a satisfying, protein-packed base for the bowl.
• Olive oil: A light drizzle of olive oil helps to coat the chicken, ensuring it grills up beautifully with a golden, crispy exterior while staying juicy inside.
• Garlic powder: Adds a warm, aromatic depth of flavor to the chicken rub, enhancing the savory notes and complementing the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
• Onion powder: This subtle ingredient adds an extra layer of savory richness, pairing perfectly with the garlic powder to create a balanced seasoning for the chicken.
• Smoked paprika: A key ingredient that brings a smoky depth to the dish, enhancing the grilled flavors of the chicken and adding a touch of heat without overwhelming the palate.
• Black pepper: A dash of black pepper adds a bit of heat and sharpness, cutting through the richness of the chicken and BBQ sauce.
• Salt: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of all the ingredients, a pinch of salt ties everything together and boosts the savory elements of the dish.
• BBQ sauce: The star flavor of this dish! Sweet, tangy, and smoky, BBQ sauce envelops the chicken in a mouthwatering glaze that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.
• Cooked quinoa: A nutritious and hearty base that adds texture and a slight nuttiness to the bowl, quinoa is the perfect complement to the smoky chicken and fresh veggies.
• Cherry tomatoes, halved: These juicy little bursts of sweetness bring a fresh, vibrant flavor to the dish, brightening up the savory notes and adding a pop of color.
• Corn kernels: Roasted or grilled, corn kernels provide a touch of sweetness and a satisfying crunch, perfectly balancing the creamy avocado and tender chicken.
• Black beans, drained and rinsed: Packed with protein and fiber, black beans add a creamy texture and earthiness, making the dish heartier and more filling.
• Avocado, sliced: Creamy, cool, and rich in healthy fats, avocado slices add a smooth texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy chicken and fresh vegetables.
• Red onion, thinly sliced: With their mild, slightly sweet flavor, red onions bring a nice crunch and a bit of sharpness that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients.
• Cilantro, chopped: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbaceous flavor, brightening up the dish with its zesty, citrusy notes that pair wonderfully with the BBQ sauce.
• Lime juice: A squeeze of lime juice adds a touch of acidity and freshness, balancing the richness of the BBQ sauce and enhancing the overall flavor profile of the bowl.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: A little sprinkle of cheddar cheese brings a melty, salty richness that ties all the flavors together, adding a comforting finish to every bite.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Power Bowl

Serving Suggestions for BBQ Chicken Power Bowl

1. Top it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt: If you’re craving a little extra creaminess, a scoop of sour cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt will add that perfect tangy richness to balance out the BBQ sauce. It’s like a cool, creamy contrast to all those bold flavors—total comfort food vibes!

2. Pair with a side of crispy sweet potato fries: For a little extra indulgence, serve your BBQ Chicken Power Bowl with a side of crispy sweet potato fries. The sweetness of the fries complements the smoky chicken so well, and that crispy texture adds a fun crunch that takes the whole meal to the next level.

3. Make it a wrap: For a more portable option, you can turn this power bowl into a wrap! Simply load all those vibrant ingredients into a large tortilla, roll it up, and you’ve got yourself a delicious, handheld meal. It’s a fun twist and perfect for on-the-go lunches or picnics.

How to Store BBQ Chicken Power Bowl

If you’ve made a big batch of BBQ Chicken Power Bowls and want to save some for later, don’t worry—this dish holds up pretty well in the fridge. To keep it fresh, it’s best to store the ingredients separately. That way, you’ll avoid soggy veggies or mushy quinoa when you’re ready to dive in again. Simply store the grilled chicken, quinoa, and veggies in separate airtight containers. The BBQ sauce can also be stored on the side to drizzle on just before serving, ensuring the chicken doesn’t get too drenched and lose that perfect charred flavor.

When you’re ready to reheat, just pop the chicken and quinoa in the microwave or warm them up in a pan over medium heat, and the veggies can be added directly to the bowl for a quick and easy assembly. You can also enjoy this power bowl cold, especially on a warm day when you crave something light and refreshing—just toss everything together and enjoy! The flavors will still shine, and the dish stays just as delicious.

If you’re looking to store leftovers for a longer period, you can freeze the chicken and quinoa. Just make sure they’re in freezer-safe containers or bags, and when you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat. The veggies, though, are best eaten fresh, so I recommend keeping them in the fridge for no more than a couple of days to maintain that crunchy texture.

Conclusion

And there you have it—your very own BBQ Chicken Power Bowl! This dish is a celebration of bold flavors, vibrant colors, and hearty textures, all coming together to make a meal that’s as satisfying as it is wholesome. From the smoky grilled chicken to the creamy avocado and crunchy veggies, every bite is a delightful combination that’ll make you feel like you’re indulging in a summer cookout, no matter the season.

The best part? It’s totally customizable. Whether you’re craving something light and fresh or looking to add a little extra indulgence with a side of sweet potato fries, this power bowl has you covered. Plus, it stores beautifully for those busy days when you need a quick, delicious meal that’s already prepared and ready to go.

I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Did you make any fun twists or variations? Or maybe you’ve got some tips for making this recipe even more awesome? Drop me a comment or share your thoughts—I’m always excited to chat about food and hear about your kitchen adventures. And if you need any help along the way, I’m here for that too!

Print Recipe

BBQ Chicken Power Bowl

Author: Lily Anderson Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 35 mins

Calories: 600

Description

Tender, smoky BBQ chicken sits atop a vibrant bed of quinoa, crisp greens, and roasted veggies, all drizzled with a tangy-sweet BBQ sauce. Each bite is a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and fresh—fueling both body and soul in the best way!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon black pepper

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt

• ¹⁄₂ cup BBQ sauce

• 1 cup cooked quinoa

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup corn kernels

• ¹⁄₂ cup black beans, drained and rinsed

• ¹⁄₂ avocado, sliced

• ¹⁄₄ cup red onion, thinly sliced

• ¹⁄₄ cup cilantro, chopped

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• ¹⁄₄ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Rub both chicken breasts with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt over both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
6. While the chicken rests, warm the quinoa if it has been refrigerated, either by microwaving it or heating it on the stove with a splash of water.
7. In a separate small pan, heat the corn kernels over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
8. Prepare the remaining ingredients by halving the cherry tomatoes, draining and rinsing the black beans, slicing the avocado, thinly slicing the red onion, and chopping the cilantro.
9. In a large bowl, add the cooked quinoa as the base layer.
10. Arrange the cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, sliced avocado, red onion, and cilantro on top of the quinoa in a visually pleasing manner.
11. Drizzle the BBQ sauce over the sliced chicken and toss to coat evenly.
12. Place the BBQ-coated chicken slices on top of the quinoa and vegetable mixture in the bowl.
13. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
14. Finish with a drizzle of lime juice over the entire bowl for a fresh, zesty flavor.
15. Serve immediately while the ingredients are warm and enjoy your BBQ Chicken Power Bowl!

Note

• Rest the chicken after grilling to retain its juices for a tender texture.
• For a smoky flavor boost, try adding extra smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
• Swap quinoa for brown rice or couscous for a different grain base.
• Add some crunch with roasted nuts like almonds or sunflower seeds on top.
• For a dairy-free version, omit the cheddar cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

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