BBQ Shredded Chicken and Squash Noodle Bowls with Avocado-Cilantro Mash

A Busy Mom's Delight: Quick, Healthy, and Delicious BBQ Chicken Bowls

Life as a mom is a whirlwind. Between school runs, work deadlines, and keeping the little ones entertained, finding time for a healthy and satisfying meal can feel like climbing Mount Everest. But what if I told you there's a recipe that's quick, easy, healthy, and incredibly delicious? This BBQ Shredded Chicken and Squash Noodle Bowls with Avocado-Cilantro Mash is my go-to weeknight dinner, and it’s become a family favorite. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy, and it’s packed with nutrients to keep everyone feeling their best. The best part? It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to swap out the yellow patty pan squash for zucchini or spaghetti squash. Don't have Tessemae's BBQ sauce? Use your favorite brand! The avocado-cilantro mash is the star of the show, adding a vibrant, creamy texture that perfectly complements the smoky BBQ chicken. It’s also a fantastic way to sneak in some extra healthy fats and nutrients. My kids, who can be notoriously picky eaters, gobble this dish up, making it a winner in our household. The prep work is minimal, meaning less time in the kitchen and more time spent with my family – a priceless trade-off, in my opinion.

This recipe isn't just about convenience; it’s about nourishing my family with wholesome ingredients. I’ve always prioritized using fresh, high-quality produce, and this recipe is no exception. The vibrant colors of the squash noodles and the creamy avocado mash make it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. It’s a comforting meal that feels indulgent without being overly heavy. It's perfect for a busy weeknight, a casual lunch, or even a light dinner party with friends. The recipe is easily doubled or tripled, making it perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.

Beyond the deliciousness and ease of preparation, this recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It’s a reminder that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most satisfying, offering both nourishment and joy. And isn’t that what cooking is all about? Providing comfort and nourishment to those we love, one delicious bowl at a time.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce for an extra kick.
• Add some crunch: Top the bowls with toasted pepitas or chopped peanuts for added texture.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or black beans for a vegetarian version.
• Meal prep friendly: Cook the chicken and squash noodles ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the bowls just before serving.
• Customize your greens: Add a handful of spinach or kale to the bowls for extra nutrients.

So, the next time you're looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that the whole family will enjoy, give this BBQ Shredded Chicken and Squash Noodle Bowls with Avocado-Cilantro Mash a try. You won't be disappointed!

Step-by-step

• Place the chicken breast into a medium saucepan and pour in enough water to cover. Place over medium heat, bring to a boil, and simmer until the thickest part of the breast meat is no longer pink, 10 to 12 minutes.
• Transfer the chicken to a bowl and then shred the chicken, using two forks.
• Transfer the shredded chicken to a medium mixing bowl.
• While the chicken is cooking, combine all of the ingredients for the avocado mash into a bowl and mix together until avocado is chunky-smooth.
• Season with salt and pepper and set aside.
• A few minutes before the chicken is done, place a small pot over medium heat and add in the BBQ sauce, cooking until heated through, about 2 minutes.
• Pour the heated BBQ sauce into the bowl with the chicken and stir until chicken is coated in the sauce.
• Set aside.
• Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add in the olive oil.
• Once oil heats, add in the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds or until fragrant.
• Then, add in the squash noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes or until al dente (or cooked to your preference).
• Plate the squash noodles into two bowls and top with chicken and avocado mash.