Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, a creamy spicy sauce, and fresh vegetables all served over warm rice. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this bowl offers an explosion of flavors in every bite. The creamy Bang Bang sauce adds a unique twist, making it not just a meal but an experience. Enjoy it for family gatherings, potlucks, or even as a satisfying lunch option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The creamy Bang Bang sauce gives the chicken an irresistible kick that will keep you coming back for more.
• Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with veggies and protein, this bowl is both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start whipping up your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, gather these essential tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet helps achieve a perfect sear on the chicken, enhancing flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Mixing bowls are essential for combining sauces and marinating ingredients effectively.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cuts for uniform cooking and presentation.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface to chop vegetables and meat safely.

Ingredients

This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is cubes of chicken tossed in a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce served over rice with crispy vegetables. Then, each bowl is topped with avocado, cilantro, and sesame seeds for a burst of freshness and texture.

For the Sauce:

• 1 ¼ cups (290 g) mayonnaise
• ⅔ cup (177 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons Sriracha (or more to taste)

For the Chicken:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For Serving:

• 4 cups (744 g) prepared white rice (warmed, divided)
• 2 cups (140 g) red cabbage (thinly sliced, divided)
• 1 large carrot (julienned, divided)
• 1 medium cucumber (halved, sliced, divided)
• 1 large avocado (thinly sliced, divided)
• fresh cilantro (chopped for garnish)
• sesame seeds (for garnish)

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and Sriracha. Whisk until smooth. Adjust Sriracha based on your heat preference.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken breast seasoned with paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.

Step 3: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked through, reduce heat to low. Pour in the prepared Bang Bang sauce and stir until all pieces are evenly coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

In serving bowls, layer warm rice at the bottom. Top with sautéed chicken coated in sauce. Add red cabbage, carrot strips, cucumber slices, and avocado on top.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish each bowl with chopped cilantro and sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch. Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Bowl!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Serving a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a delightful experience that combines flavors and textures beautifully. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the chicken over warm white rice for a comforting base that soaks up the spicy sauce.

With Fresh Greens

• Add a handful of mixed greens on the side for a refreshing crunch that balances the rich flavors of the dish.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with chicken and veggies for a fun, low-carb option.

Topped with Extra Sauce

• Drizzle more Bang Bang sauce on top of each bowl for those who love an extra kick of flavor.

Alongside Pickled Vegetables

• Serve with pickled vegetables to add a tangy contrast that enhances the overall taste profile.

Garnished with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped peanuts or cashews on top for added crunch and nuttiness.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

To achieve the best Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, follow these tips for perfecting your dish every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken enhance flavor and texture in your bowl.

• Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of Sriracha in the sauce according to your heat preference for personal taste.

• Marinate the chicken: Letting the chicken marinate briefly in the seasonings can deepen its flavor before cooking.

• Cook chicken evenly: Ensure all pieces are cut uniformly to promote even cooking and prevent some pieces from being overcooked.

• Serve immediately: For optimal freshness, serve your bowls right after preparation to enjoy warm rice and crispy veggies.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to mix in other toppings like crushed red pepper flakes, green onions, or different herbs to customize your bowl.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Pairing side dishes with your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious element and pairs well with the sauce’s richness.

2. Fried Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls provide a crunchy contrast that complements the soft textures in the bowl.

3. Coconut Rice: Fluffy coconut rice brings a subtle sweetness that balances out the spiciness of the dish.

4. Mango Salad: A refreshing mango salad with lime dressing can brighten up your meal with its fruity notes.

5. Edamame Beans: Simple boiled edamame beans offer protein and a satisfying bite alongside your chicken bowl.

6. Kimchi: This fermented side adds tanginess and probiotics, enhancing both flavor and health benefits.

7. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar is crisp and refreshing against the creamy sauce.

8. Garlic Noodles: Savory garlic noodles provide an additional layer of flavor while being easy to prepare alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Using the wrong chicken cut: Always choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best texture. Other cuts may alter cooking time and flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cook your chicken just until it’s no longer pink inside. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.
• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the chicken in the sauce enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step for maximum taste.
• Neglecting freshness of vegetables: Use fresh, crisp veggies like cabbage and cucumbers to add crunch. Old vegetables can ruin the dish’s texture.
• Not adjusting spice levels: Sriracha heat varies. Start with less and adjust according to your taste preference for a balanced flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• item Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

• item You can freeze individual servings in freezer-safe containers.
• item Best if consumed within 2 months for optimal quality.

Reheating Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring between intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?

The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl features tender chicken tossed in a spicy, creamy sauce served over rice with fresh vegetables.

Can I make this dish healthier?

Yes! You can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and brown rice for added nutrients.

How do I customize my Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?

Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas based on your preferences.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be prepared ahead of time for easy weekday meals.

What other proteins can I use instead of chicken?

Try shrimp or tofu as alternatives that also pair well with the Bang Bang sauce.

Final Thoughts

The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is not only delicious but also versatile. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or protein options. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep days. Don’t hesitate to try this crowd-pleasing recipe!