Seasoned chicken skewers are served with a tangy, sweet homemade BBQ sauce, crunchy dairy-free slaw, and plenty of fixings in these loaded chicken bowls. 

Smoky, fresh, and flavor-packed, these Loaded BBQ Chicken Bowls are everything that I want in a dinner and more! 

We start by searing off some seasoned chicken thigh skewers before glazing them with a homemade sweet and tangy BBQ sauce.

This sauce takes less than 5 minutes to prep, then once the chicken is nearly done, you’ll get started on a 5-ingredient dairy-free (and mayo-free) slaw recipe.

The slaw can be made in advance and actually tastes better as it sits, so feel free to make it several hours before dinnertime. 

With all these components made, it’s time to assemble. I like to place a large scoop of prepared white rice as the base, followed by the crunchy slaw, some BBQ baked beans, corn, some chopped cherry tomatoes, the chicken skewers, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.

Let me know what you think of these loaded summertime bowls. Enjoy! 

Key Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Bowl Recipe

The ingredient list may look lengthy, but don’t be overwhelmed. Many of the ingredients are used in both the BBQ sauce and chicken seasoning. Here’s what you’ll need. 

• Ketchup: Look for an unsweetened ketchup, such as @primalkitchenfoods, to control the sweetness of the BBQ sauce. 
• Coconut Sugar: This natural sweetener helps give the sauce its molasses-like taste. 
• Apple Cider Vinegar: ACV complements the smokiness of the sauce, cutting through some of the richness of the meat while giving the sauce a bit of a pop. 

• Yellow Mustard: This condiment contrasts the sweeter notes of the ketchup, providing an unbeatable zesty flavor. 
• Spices: To get that classic sweet but tangy BBQ taste, you’ll want to include a bunch of different spices. I suggest smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, chili salt, salt, and pepper.
• Chicken: I prefer chicken thighs, but you could also use chicken breasts. Cube it up into 1-inch pieces so the skewers cook evenly. 

• Slaw Mix: Go ahead and save yourself some time by picking up a bag of pre-made slaw mix. This typically includes a blend of green and red cabbage and carrots. 
• Celery Seeds: Tiny but mighty celery seeds are common in coleslaw and are known for their concentrated celery flavor. If you don’t have them, feel free to omit them. 
• Serving Suggestions: I like to pile these chicken skewers in a big bowl with some mixed greens or white rice, baked beans (try this recipe!), corn, chopped cherry tomatoes, and cilantro. 

Step-by-Step Instructions for LOADED BBQ Chicken Bowls

There are a few different components to these bowls, but they all come together relatively quickly. 

First, make the BBQ Sauce

In a large measuring cup or bowl, add the ketchup, coconut sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until combined.

Next, prepare the chicken

In a large bowl, toss chicken with olive oil and seasonings. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) to marinate.

To cook the chicken

Heat a grill (375 to 400°F) or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook skewers for 5 to 7 minutes per side, until nicely charred and cooked through.

Brush lightly with BBQ sauce during the last minute or so of cooking.

Note, if you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in the oven. Place the skewers on a lined baking sheet with a wire rack. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly on all sides. 

Make the slaw

While the chicken is cooking, in a large mixing bowl, add the slaw mix, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, celery seeds, and salt.

Toss to thoroughly combine (I find it easiest to use my hands to incorporate). Set aside until ready to eat.

Assemble the bowls

When you’re ready to eat, assemble the bowls with a scoop of rice or a handful of mixed greens, baked beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, and BBQ chicken skewers. Top with additional BBQ sauce. Enjoy!

More High-Protein Chicken Bowl Recipes: 

• Chicken Power Bowls with Lemon Tahini Sauce
• Asian-Inspired Ginger Honey Ground Chicken Bowls
• Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Bowls
• Loaded Greek Chicken Bowl With Dairy-Free Tzatziki