What goes well with barbecue chicken healthy?

For a healthy high-protein chicken bowl , pair BBQ chicken with: Roasted veggies (broccoli, zucchini) Whole grains (quinoa, brown rice) Fresh slaw or avocado slices These boost nutrients and balance the bold BBQ flavor

How to make a sweet and smoky barbecue sauce?

Mix: 1/2 cup ketchup 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar 1 tsp smoked paprika 1/2 tsp garlic powder Simmer for 5–7 mins. Adjust sweetness or smoke to taste.

How to make sweet barbecue sauce for chicken?

Use a base of tomato paste or ketchup, then add: Honey or brown sugar A splash of apple cider vinegar A pinch of salt Great for grilled or air-fried chicken bowls.

How to give barbecue sauce a smoky flavor?

Add: Smoked paprika Liquid smoke (just a drop) Chipotle powder or roasted garlic This deepens flavor without a grill.

Best BBQ Sauces for High-Protein Chicken Bowls (Sweet, Smoky & Spicy)

Description

This sweet and smoky BBQ sauce is the perfect companion for high-protein chicken bowls. Balanced with honey, vinegar, and smoked spices, it brings rich flavor without the fuss. Ideal for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup ketchup

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

½ teaspoon sea salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional: ½ teaspoon liquid smoke for extra depth

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Instructions

In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together all ingredients until smooth.
Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low.
Simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more honey for sweetness, or more vinegar for tang.
Remove from heat and let cool.
Transfer to a glass jar or squeeze bottle. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Notes:
Perfect for grilled, air-fried, or oven-baked chicken.
Can be used as a marinade or finishing glaze.
Sauce thickens slightly as it cools. Thin with water if desired for drizzling.
Serving Suggestions:
Spoon over rice or quinoa-based bowls with grilled chicken
Use as a dipping sauce for baked chicken tenders
Drizzle over sweet potato and veggie bowls for bold BBQ flavor
Storage Tips:
Refrigerate in airtight container up to 2 weeks
Freeze in ice cube trays, then transfer to zip-top bags for long-term storage

Prep Time: 5 Minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Sauces & Condiments
Cuisine: American, BBQ

Nutrition

Calories: 60 kcal
Sugar: 11g
Sodium: 290mg
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0.5g