Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a delicious and colorful meal that brings together crispy chicken, fresh veggies, and a spicy, creamy sauce that really wakes up your taste buds. The chicken is usually coated in a crunchy batter and tossed in a bold, tangy sauce that’s sweet with a little kick, making every bite exciting and full of flavor.
I love how easy this bowl is to customize. You can add your favorite veggies like crunchy cabbage, crisp cucumbers, or even some juicy mango for a touch of sweetness. It’s also great for meal prep because you can make the sauce ahead and have a tasty lunch ready in no time. Plus, I find that drizzling a little extra sauce on top always makes it feel extra special.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this dish is with a bed of fluffy rice or even some leafy greens to balance out the heat and crunch. It’s a perfect mix of textures and flavors that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Trust me, once you try this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, it’s going to become a go-to for busy weeknights or whenever you want something quick but exciting to eat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier result, but breasts work fine too. If you want a lighter option, try grilled tofu or tempeh instead.
Bang Bang Sauce: Mayonnaise is the base that makes the sauce creamy. For a dairy-free or vegan version, use vegan mayo. Sweet chili sauce adds sweetness and spice; if unavailable, mix honey with a bit of chili garlic sauce.
Rice: Jasmine rice has a nice floral aroma and soft texture perfect for this bowl. Brown rice or quinoa are great alternatives if you want more fiber.
Veggies: Freshness is key here. I love adding crunchy shredded carrots and crisp cucumber slices. Romaine lettuce gives a nice mild crunch. You can swap out romaine for spinach or mixed greens.
How Can I Cook Chicken Perfectly for This Bowl?
Getting juicy, flavorful chicken is easy with these tips:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning for better browning.
- Use medium-high heat and a good quality oil to sear the chicken without burning.
- Cook 5-6 minutes per side depending on thickness, until internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy before slicing.
These simple steps help the chicken stay tender with a nice crust, balancing perfectly with the creamy spicy bang bang sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Skillet or frying pan – I like using a non-stick skillet for easy cleanup and evenly cooked chicken.
- Measuring spoons and cups – helps get the perfect balance of sauce ingredients.
- Cutting board and knife – for slicing chicken, cucumber, and chopping veggies.
- Mixing bowls – to stir together the bang bang sauce and prep ingredients.
- Serving bowls – for assembling and serving the meal.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu to change the protein while keeping the spicy, creamy sauce.
- Add sliced bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
- Mix in chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fresh boost.
- Use sriracha mayo or spicy kimchi for an extra kick of heat.
Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tsp honey or sugar
For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked white jasmine rice
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
- ½ cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl takes about 20 minutes total. It includes around 10 minutes for prepping the chicken and sauce, 12 minutes to cook the chicken, and a few minutes to assemble everything. It’s quick enough for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning all over the chicken pieces, making sure they’re well coated.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken in the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until the chicken is nicely browned and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken and let it rest for a couple of minutes, then slice it into strips.
3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the chicken cooks, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey in a bowl. Taste and adjust the spiciness if you like it milder or hotter.
4. Assemble Your Bowl:
Divide the cooked jasmine rice between two bowls. Neatly arrange the sliced chicken, shredded carrots, chopped romaine lettuce, and cucumber slices on top of the rice.
5. Add Sauce and Garnish:
Drizzle the creamy bang bang sauce generously over the chicken and rice. Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a fresh and tasty garnish.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is ready to eat! Serve it immediately and enjoy the perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and fresh flavors.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and stay juicy.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be mixed and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a quick stir before drizzling over your bowl.
What Can I Substitute for Jasmine Rice?
You can swap jasmine rice for brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice if you’re looking for a healthier or gluten-free option.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and rice gently in the microwave or on the stove, then add fresh veggies and drizzle with extra sauce before serving.
