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On a busy weeknight when I was craving BBQ but didn't want the fuss of firing up the grill, this protein-packed bowl was born. The combination might sound unusual - cottage cheese with BBQ sauce? But trust me, the creamy cottage cheese paired with smoky BBQ chicken creates something magical. It's like a backyard barbecue in a bowl, minus the charcoal and mosquitoes.
Last night, my husband - who usually insists BBQ needs bread - went back for seconds of this bowl. Sometimes the best recipes come from breaking the rules.
Essential Ingredients
- Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works perfectly here
- BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite - sweet, spicy, or smoky
- Cottage Cheese: Creates a creamy, protein-rich base
- Roasted Corn: Adds a subtle smokiness
- Fresh Coleslaw: Brings crunch and fresh contrast
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Building Your Bowl
- Cool Foundation:
- Start with a generous layer of cottage cheese. Like building a good BBQ plate, you want a solid foundation that catches all the flavors.
- BBQ Layer:
- Add your saucy shredded chicken while it's still warm. The heat slightly warms the cottage cheese, creating that perfect temperature contrast.
- Fresh Elements:
- Layer your roasted corn and black beans around the chicken. The corn adds smokiness while the beans bring hearty texture.
- Finishing Touches:
- Crown your creation with crisp coleslaw, creamy avocado, and an extra drizzle of BBQ sauce for good measure.
I discovered this combination during a summer potluck when my BBQ chicken accidentally mixed with my cottage cheese. That happy accident led to what's now our favorite quick dinner.
Temperature Play
The contrast between cool cottage cheese and warm BBQ chicken creates an interesting dance of temperatures that makes each bite exciting.
Protein Power
This bowl packs a serious protein punch - perfect for post-workout meals or when you need lasting energy.
Serving Suggestions
Add some crushed tortilla chips for crunch, or serve with warm cornbread for a more traditional BBQ experience.
Make It Yours
Try different BBQ sauces, add pickled onions for tang, or swap in pulled pork for variety.
Storage Notes
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prep components separately and assemble just before eating.
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Professional Chef's Tips
- Warm your chicken slightly if using leftover or rotisserie
- Keep extra BBQ sauce handy for drizzling
- Toss avocado with lime juice to prevent browning
Through countless quick dinners and meal prep lunches, this bowl has become our favorite way to enjoy BBQ flavors without the fuss. It proves that sometimes the best recipes come from accidental combinations and thinking outside the bun.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of BBQ sauce works best?
- Any favorite BBQ sauce works - use sweet, spicy, or smoky based on your preference.
- → Can I meal prep this?
- Prepare components separately and assemble just before eating. Keep avocado separate until serving.
- → How can I make this vegetarian?
- Replace chicken with BBQ-seasoned black beans or grilled tempeh.
- → Can I use frozen corn?
- Yes, just thaw and briefly pan-roast for best flavor.
- → What can I substitute for coleslaw?
- Shredded lettuce or a simple green salad works as an alternative.