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High Protein Ranch Chicken Bowls - A Simple, Satisfying Meal

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier meat)
  • Seasoning: 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • Oil: 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • Base: 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice (quinoa adds more protein)
  • Beans: 1 can (15 oz) black beans or chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • Veggies: 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 large cucumber (diced), 1 red bell pepper (diced), 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • Greens: 4 cups chopped romaine or mixed greens
  • Cheese (optional): 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or crumbled feta
  • Healthy Fats: 1 large avocado, diced
  • Fresh Herbs: 2 tablespoons chopped chives or dill
  • Light Ranch Sauce: 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons light mayo, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning, splash of water to thin
  • Finishers: Lime wedges, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional)

Method
 

  1. Cook your base. Prepare quinoa or brown rice according to package directions. Fluff and set aside.
  2. Mix the light ranch. In a small bowl, whisk Greek yogurt, light mayo, lemon juice, ranch seasoning, a pinch of salt, and a splash of water until pourable. Chill while you cook.
  3. Season the chicken. Pat chicken dry. Toss with 1 tablespoon oil, ranch seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  4. Sear the chicken. Heat the remaining oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Cook chicken 4–6 minutes per side, until browned and the internal temp hits 165°F (74°C). Rest 5 minutes, then slice or cube.
  5. Prep veggies. Halve tomatoes, dice cucumber and bell pepper, and slice avocado. If using frozen corn, warm it in the hot skillet for a quick char.
  6. Warm the beans. Heat beans briefly in the skillet with a pinch of salt, or keep them cold if you prefer.
  7. Assemble bowls. Divide greens, grains, and beans among 4 bowls. Top with chicken, veggies, avocado, and cheese if using.
  8. Finish and serve. Drizzle with the light ranch, scatter fresh herbs, add lime juice, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like heat.