Buffalo Ranch Chicken Bowl (30g Protein + GF)

There’s just something about buffalo and ranch that always creates a crowd pleasing recipe.  This Buffalo Ranch Chicken Bowl is one of those solutions that checks all the boxes: it’s quick, wholesome, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re navigating a hectic week or looking to spice up your meal prep routine, this recipe is your reminder that eating well doesn’t have to be complicated.

Jump to Recipe

😍 Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Ranch Chicken Bowl Recipe  

• Perfect for busy weeknights or as an easy meal prep idea  
• Combines high-protein ingredients and lots of veggies for a balanced, nutritious meal  
• Offers flexibility for different dietary preferences like low-carb or gluten-free options  
• Uses simple ingredients readily available in grocery stores or Trader Joe’s  
• A flavorful mix of tender buffalo chicken, creamy ranch dressing, and crispy textures  

Jump to Recipe

🗒️ Ingredients + Substitutions  

Protein options:  Shredded rotisserie chicken, chicken thighs, skinless chicken breasts, or cubed chicken  

Base:  White rice, brown rice, cauliflower rice (low-carb alternative), or long grain rice prepared using a rice cooker  

Veggies:  Cherry tomatoes (or grape tomatoes), red onions, bell peppers, roasted cauliflower, bag of cabbage slaw mix, sweet potatoes, or a great addition of fresh veggies like cucumbers  

Healthy fats:  Avocado or olive oil  

Cheese options:  Blue cheese crumbles, feta cheese, or a dairy-free alternative  

Sauces and dressings:  Primal Kitchen buffalo sauce, Frank’s Buffalo Wing Sauce, blue cheese dressing, or homemade ranch using Greek yogurt and ranch seasoning  

Additional seasonings:  Garlic powder, paprika, sea salt, black pepper  

Optional sides:  Black beans, lime juice, apple cider vinegar  

💡 Gluten-Free? Read This!  

• Double-check seasoning packets like ranch seasoning and buffalo sauce for gluten content.  
• Use gluten-free dressing options (e.g., a homemade ranch made with dairy-free yogurt).  

👩‍🍳 How to Make My Buffalo Ranch Chicken Bowl  

1. Cook the protein:

• Use shredded chicken, cubed chicken, or a sheet pan chicken option for crispy buffalo chicken.  
• For easy preparation, try tender buffalo chicken made in an Instant Pot or slow cooker with chicken broth and spicy buffalo sauce.  

2. Prepare the base:

• Use your preferred bed of rice (brown, white, or cauliflower rice) or opt for roasted cauliflower for a low-carb twist.  
• Cook the rice in a rice cooker or Instant Pot for ease.  

3. Assemble the bowl:

• Add freshly cooked grains or cauliflower florets to a large skillet over medium-high heat to crisp, if desired.  
• Layer with lots of veggies like bagged cabbage slaw mix, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers.  

4. Season and dress:

• Coat the chicken in buffalo sauce, garlic powder, and seasonings until golden brown.  
• Top with blue cheese crumbles (or feta), ranch dressing, and extra buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.  

5. Serve and enjoy:

• Garnish with fresh chives or green onions for a burst of flavor!  

📓 Best Served With  

• Low-carb buffalo chicken bowls paired with a side of black beans or crispy roasted sweet potatoes.  
• Try this bowl-style meal with a refreshing apple cider vinegar slaw for a tangy kick.  
• A dollop of sour cream or your favorite hot sauce can elevate the spice factor.  

👝 How to Store Leftovers  

• Store leftover buffalo chicken or veggies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.  
• For meal prep, use separate containers to preserve freshness. Add dressing just before serving.  
• Freeze leftover spicy buffalo chicken in a meal prep container for up to 3 months.  

🧠 Common Questions  

Q1. Can I make this with crispy buffalo chicken?  

• Absolutely! Use cubed chicken tossed with olive oil, buffalo sauce, and ranch seasoning, then bake at high heat on a sheet pan until golden brown.

Q2. Are there different types of buffalo sauce I can use?  

• Yes, you can try Frank’s Buffalo Wing Sauce or Primal Kitchen Buffalo Sauce for a lower-calorie option.  

Q3. Can I use rotisserie chicken?  

• Definitely! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great addition and saves on prep time.  

💪🏼 Tracking Macros? Check This Out

The Buffalo Ranch Chicken Bowl is a perfect blend of flavor and nutrition. It’s only 265 calories per serving and packed with 30g of protein to keep you full and support muscle recovery. With just 9g of carbs and 4g of fiber, it’s great for low-carb diets and supports healthy digestion. It also has 12g of healthy fats, including 5g monounsaturated fats and 3g polyunsaturated fats, while keeping saturated fat low at 3g.

This bowl is also loaded with nutrients like Vitamin A (7321IU) for vision and immunity, Vitamin C (14mg) for skin and immune health, plus potassium (654mg) and iron (2mg) for energy and cellular health.

Whether you’re tracking macros or just looking for a healthy, satisfying meal, this recipe has it all—simple, nutritious, and packed with flavor! 

• Packed with high protein, healthy fats, and fresh veggies, this recipe supports your nutrition goals visually and functionally.  
• Check the nutrition facts and nutritional information on seasoning packets and sauces to fit this into your macros seamlessly.  
• Swap out rice with cauliflower rice to cut carbs while keeping the hearty feel of buffalo bowls.  

If you try out this Buffalo Ranch Chicken Bowl Recipe – and I hope you do – share your thoughts with a star rating in the comments!