Macro Friendly BBQ Ranch Chicken

Featured in: Quick & Fresh Meals

Enjoy a high-protein meal featuring tender grilled chicken filet, creamy cottage cheese, and tangy ranch dressing, all topped with smoky barbecue sauce and reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese. This dish comes together quickly and delivers bold flavors with balanced macros, ideal for fueling your day or recovering after exercise. Prepare the chicken by grilling, baking, or pan-frying, then assemble with nutritious dairy and savory sauces. Customize by adding fresh veggies or swapping cheeses to suit your taste. Wholesome and delicious, this bowl is ready in just 15 minutes for a satisfying, nutritious meal.

Updated on Fri, 31 Oct 2025 16:06:00 GMT
Macro Friendly BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl topped with cheese, showcasing delicious colors and textures.  Pin Recipe
Macro Friendly BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl topped with cheese, showcasing delicious colors and textures. | fordishes.com

This Macro Friendly BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl is packed with protein and flavor, featuring a tender chicken filet with cottage cheese, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, and reduced-fat cheddar cheese. Ready in just 15 minutes, it makes a satisfying and balanced meal for any time of day.

I started making this recipe after searching for a tasty high-protein lunch that could keep me energized throughout my busiest days. Now, it's become a staple after workouts or as a go-to healthy dinner during hectic weeks.

Ingredients

  • Chicken filet: 1, Just Bare or similar brand
  • Low-fat cottage cheese: ½ cup, Good Culture recommended
  • Ranch dressing: 2 tbsp, Bolthouse Farms recommended
  • BBQ sauce: 2 tbsp, G.Hughes recommended
  • Shredded cheddar cheese (reduced fat): 2 tbsp

Instructions

Cook the Chicken:
Grill, bake, or pan-fry the chicken filet until fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (about 6 to 8 minutes per side depending on thickness).
Prepare the Bowl:
While the chicken is cooking, scoop ½ cup of low-fat cottage cheese into your bowl.
Assemble the Bowl:
Once the chicken is cooked, slice it and add it on top of the cottage cheese. Drizzle the ranch dressing and BBQ sauce over the chicken.
Finish the Bowl:
Sprinkle the shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese on top for added flavor.
Serve:
Serve immediately, or refrigerate for meal prep for the next day.
Satisfying BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl served in a vibrant dish, loaded with protein goodness.  Pin Recipe
Satisfying BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl served in a vibrant dish, loaded with protein goodness. | fordishes.com

My family always asks for this bowl when they want something filling yet light. Even picky eaters love how all the flavors come together, and everyone enjoys adding their own extra toppings.

Meal Prep Tips

You can double or triple the ingredients for meal prep. Store bowls in airtight containers in the fridge, then simply reheat the chicken before serving.

Customizations

Swap out ranch or BBQ sauce for your favorites, or add roasted sweet potatoes and extra veggies for more texture and flavor.

Nutrition Information

Each serving contains about 42g of protein, making it ideal for anyone tracking macros or building muscle.

Hearty Macro Friendly BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl, featuring flavorful chicken and creamy cottage cheese. Pin Recipe
Hearty Macro Friendly BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl, featuring flavorful chicken and creamy cottage cheese. | fordishes.com

This bowl packs flavor and nutrition into every bite. Enjoy it fresh, or make-ahead for an energizing meal any day.

Recipe FAQs

How can I cook the chicken filet?

Grill, bake, or pan-fry until the chicken reaches 165°F, ensuring a juicy and safe texture.

Can I substitute the ranch and BBQ sauces?

Yes, any brand works well; opt for lower-calorie versions if you want to keep the macros in check.

Is it possible to add vegetables?

Absolutely! Fresh veggies or roasted sweet potatoes add crunch and boost nutrition.

What is the protein content per serving?

This bowl delivers approximately 42g of protein, perfect for post-workout or fueling your day.

How do I meal prep this bowl?

Prepare as directed, store in the fridge, and enjoy as a quick, balanced option for busy days.

Macro Friendly BBQ Ranch Chicken

High-protein BBQ chicken bowl with ranch, cottage cheese, and cheddar. Ready in 15 minutes for wholesome meals.

Prep Duration
5 mins
Cooking Duration
12 mins
Complete Time
17 mins
Recipe by Fordishes Ava Reynolds


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 1 Number of Servings

Diet Details Gluten-Free

Ingredient List

Protein Components

01 1 boneless skinless chicken filet (approx. 4-5 oz)
02 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese

Sauces and Dairy

01 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
02 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
03 2 tablespoons reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

Step 01

Cook Chicken Filet: Preheat grill, oven, or skillet to medium-high heat. Cook chicken filet until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, approximately 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness.

Step 02

Prepare Base Layer: Place 1/2 cup of low-fat cottage cheese into serving bowl.

Step 03

Slice and Assemble: Slice the cooked chicken filet and arrange over the cottage cheese.

Step 04

Dress and Top: Drizzle ranch dressing and BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Step 05

Serving: Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to one day. Optionally, garnish with fresh vegetables or roasted sweet potatoes for added texture.

Needed Equipment

  • Grill, oven, or non-stick skillet
  • Sharp chef's knife
  • Food-safe thermometer
  • Medium serving bowl

Allergy Info

Double-check ingredients for allergens and speak with a healthcare provider if you're unsure.
  • Contains milk, eggs, and may contain soy depending on sauce brands.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

For informational use only—doesn't replace personalized medical direction.
  • Calories: 390
  • Fats: 11 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Proteins: 42 g