Low Carb BBQ Chicken Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in approximately 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

• Flavorful: The combination of caramelized onions, smoky barbecue sauce, and melted cheese creates a rich and satisfying taste.

• Versatile: Enjoy it as a standalone bowl or serve over sautéed peppers and onions for added texture.

• Diabetes-Friendly: By choosing a lower-carb barbecue sauce, this dish aligns with diabetic dietary guidelines.

• Customizable: Add mushrooms or other vegetables to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

• 5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• ⅓ cup lower-carb BBQ sauce

• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or colby jack)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.

2. Add sliced onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften.

3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet with the onions.

4. Cover and cook for 2–3 minutes.

5. Uncover and continue cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (about 10 minutes).

6. Remove the chicken from the skillet, shred it using two forks, and return it to the skillet.

7. Stir in the barbecue sauce and mix well.

8. Top with shredded cheese and cover for 1–2 minutes to melt the cheese.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Mushrooms: Incorporate sliced mushrooms during the sautéing process for added flavor and texture.

• Spicy Kick: Mix in a few dashes of hot sauce or chili flakes to give the dish some heat.

• Vegetable Base: Serve over a bed of sautéed bell peppers and onions for a more substantial meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may result in a drier texture. Thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor.

2. Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?

Yes, when using a low-carb barbecue sauce, this recipe fits well within keto dietary guidelines.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and onions in advance and store them separately. Assemble and heat just before serving.

4. What type of barbecue sauce should I use?

Opt for a low-sugar or sugar-free barbecue sauce to keep the carb count low.

5. Can I freeze this recipe?

While the chicken mixture can be frozen, the texture of the cheese may change upon reheating. It's best enjoyed fresh.

6. How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Consider adding sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to increase the vegetable content.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the barbecue sauce used is gluten-free.

8. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely, feel free to use any cheese that melts well and suits your taste preferences.

9. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.

10. Can I serve this dish with a side?

This bowl pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

The Low Carb BBQ Chicken Bowl is a versatile and flavorful dish that caters to various dietary needs without compromising on taste. Its quick preparation and customizable options make it a great addition to any meal plan. Whether you're following a low-carb, keto, or diabetes-friendly diet, this recipe offers a satisfying and delicious meal option.