A simple, high-protein meal that combines BBQ chicken with creamy cottage cheese for a satisfying, savory bowl. Perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner, this dish is easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you're looking for a post-workout meal or just a nutritious option for busy days, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein – A great option for muscle recovery and keeping you full longer.
- Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
- Deliciously Creamy – The combination of BBQ sauce, ranch, and cottage cheese creates a smooth and flavorful base.
- Healthy and Satisfying – Made with simple, wholesome ingredients that taste amazing.
- Versatile – Can be served on its own or paired with grains or veggies for extra nourishment.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 chicken breast filet
- ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoon ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoon shredded cheddar cheese (reduced fat)
- 2 tablespoon BBQ sauce
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the chicken filet on a baking tray and cook for 20 minutes or until fully cooked, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken is cooking, mix the cottage cheese and ranch dressing in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and heat BBQ sauce in a pan. Toss the cooked chicken in the BBQ sauce to coat evenly.
- In a bowl, combine the BBQ chicken and cottage cheese mixture. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and drizzle with more BBQ sauce.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 1-2 servings
- Calories: Approximately 400-450 kcal per serving
Variations
- Add Grains – Serve over brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a more filling meal.
- Spicy Kick – Mix in some hot sauce or chili flakes for extra heat.
- Extra Veggies – Add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for more nutrients.
- Different Cheeses – Swap cheddar for mozzarella, feta, or pepper jack for a new flavor.
- Low-Carb Option – Serve in a lettuce wrap instead of a bowl.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Add a little extra BBQ sauce if needed.
- Freezing: Not recommended as cottage cheese may change texture when frozen.
FAQs
How can I make this recipe even healthier?
Use grilled chicken instead of baked, opt for a sugar-free BBQ sauce, and choose a light ranch dressing.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of ranch dressing?
Yes! Greek yogurt is a great alternative for a tangy, high-protein swap.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely! Just store the BBQ chicken and cottage cheese mixture separately, then assemble when ready to eat.
What can I serve with this bowl?
Try it with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a slice of whole-grain bread.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works great for an even quicker version of this recipe.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Swap cottage cheese with dairy-free alternatives and use a plant-based ranch dressing.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
It can be if you use a low-carb BBQ sauce and avoid added sugars.
Can I make this with tofu instead of chicken?
Yes! Use firm tofu, bake it, and toss it in BBQ sauce for a plant-based alternative.
How do I make this bowl spicier?
Add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or jalapeños for extra heat.
Can I eat this cold?
Yes! It tastes great as a cold, high-protein salad-style bowl.
Conclusion
This Quick Cottage Cheese BBQ Chicken Bowl is a perfect blend of creamy, smoky, and savory flavors, making it an ideal meal for any time of the day. It's high in protein, quick to prepare, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you're meal prepping or just need a fast and nutritious dish, this bowl will not disappoint. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, healthy meal in no time!
Quick Cottage Cheese BBQ Chicken Bowl
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 1-2 servings
Description
This Quick Cottage Cheese BBQ Chicken Bowl is a high-protein, flavorful meal perfect for busy days. Tender BBQ chicken is paired with creamy cottage cheese and ranch dressing for a deliciously satisfying bowl. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's an easy, nutritious option for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 chicken breast filet
- ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 2 tbsp ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp shredded cheddar cheese (reduced fat)
- 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Bake the chicken filet on a tray for 20 minutes or until fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F/75°C).
Mix cottage cheese and ranch dressing in a bowl until smooth.
Coat the cooked chicken with warmed BBQ sauce.
Assemble the bowl: Add BBQ chicken over the cottage cheese mixture. Top with cheddar and extra BBQ sauce.
Serve & Enjoy!
Notes
Add Grains – Serve over quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice.
Make it Spicy – Add hot sauce or chili flakes.
Extra Veggies – Mix in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers.
Low-Carb Option – Serve in a lettuce wrap instead of a bowl.
Dairy-Free – Swap cottage cheese and ranch for plant-based alternatives.
Meal Prep Friendly – Store separately and assemble before eating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: High-Protein Meals
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
