Bang Bang Chicken Bowl – A Flavorful and Creamy Delight

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a fusion of bold flavors, creamy textures, and satisfying crunch, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or meal-prep option. At its core, this recipe combines crispy chicken bites coated in a sweet, spicy, and tangy Bang Bang sauce, layered over fluffy rice and paired with fresh vegetables for balance. What makes this dish stand out is its versatility—you can adjust the spice level to your preference, swap out proteins, or add extra veggies to make it healthier. It is also quick to prepare, making it an excellent option for busy families or individuals seeking something tasty yet effortless. The balance of creamy sauce, crispy chicken, and refreshing vegetables creates a meal that feels indulgent while still being wholesome. This dish brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your home kitchen without the complexity.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts – Tender, lean protein that serves as the main base of the dish. Chicken breasts are cut into bite-sized chunks, which cook quickly and absorb flavor well.

Cornstarch – Used to coat the chicken before frying, creating a light, crisp exterior that holds up beautifully under the creamy Bang Bang sauce.

Mayonnaise – The base of the signature Bang Bang sauce. It provides a rich and creamy texture that balances the spicy and sweet notes.

Sweet chili sauce – Adds sweetness and mild heat to the sauce. It also gives a glossy finish that clings to the chicken pieces.

Sriracha – Brings bold spice and depth of flavor. You can adjust the amount depending on how spicy you want your Bang Bang chicken to be.

Rice vinegar – Introduces a subtle tang that balances the creaminess of the mayonnaise, making the sauce more complex.

Cooked rice – A fluffy base that soaks up the sauce while grounding the bold flavors. Jasmine or basmati rice works best for added aroma.

Cucumber – Offers freshness and crunch to contrast with the creamy chicken, preventing the dish from feeling too heavy.

Shredded carrots – Add color, natural sweetness, and crunch. They complement the spicy elements of the dish.

Green onions – Bright, mildly pungent, and a perfect garnish that enhances flavor while adding a fresh bite.

Sesame seeds – Provide a nutty note and extra texture for the finishing touch.

Directions

Start by preparing the chicken. Cut the chicken breasts into even, bite-sized cubes to ensure quick and uniform cooking. Coat them lightly in cornstarch, shaking off any excess, then set aside. Heat oil in a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken pieces in batches, cooking until golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside. Transfer cooked chicken onto a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Meanwhile, prepare the Bang Bang sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and rice vinegar in a mixing bowl. Adjust the spice and sweetness according to preference. Once the chicken has rested for a few minutes, toss it generously in the prepared sauce until well coated.

Assemble the bowls by placing a portion of cooked rice at the bottom. Top with Bang Bang chicken, sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, and green onions. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for added crunch. Serve warm, ensuring each bowl has a balance of textures and flavors.

Servings and timing

This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, cooking requires an additional 20 minutes, making the total time approximately 35 minutes. It is a quick yet satisfying dish perfect for lunch or dinner.

Storage/reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken and rice in a skillet or microwave until hot, then add fresh vegetables before serving to maintain texture. Avoid reheating the cucumbers and carrots, as they are best enjoyed fresh.

Variations and Customizations

Spicy Upgrade – Add extra sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes for a hotter version.

Healthier Swap – Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise to lighten the sauce while still keeping it creamy.

Grain Alternatives – Substitute rice with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or brown rice for added nutrition.

Vegetarian Option – Replace chicken with crispy tofu or roasted chickpeas for a plant-based variation.

Extra Vegetables – Add bell peppers, edamame, or avocado slices for more color and nutrients.

Low-Carb Version – Skip the rice and serve the Bang Bang chicken over mixed greens for a refreshing salad-style bowl.

Gluten-Free Adaptation – Ensure your sauces are gluten-free and use cornstarch coating for a safe, gluten-free meal.

FAQs

What does Bang Bang sauce taste like?

It is creamy, sweet, slightly tangy, and spicy, offering a balanced flavor that coats the chicken perfectly.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, baking at 400°F for about 20 minutes will still give crispy results with less oil.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness to the dish.

How spicy is this dish?

It has a mild to medium heat, but you can easily adjust the sriracha level to suit your taste.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance, then assemble just before serving.

What rice is best for this bowl?

Jasmine or basmati rice is ideal for aroma and fluffiness, but any cooked rice works.

Can I air fry the chicken?

Yes, coating the chicken in cornstarch and cooking in an air fryer at 375°F for 12–15 minutes gives excellent crispiness.

Conclusion

The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a delicious combination of crispy chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh vegetables layered over rice. It is versatile, quick to prepare, and adaptable for various dietary needs. Whether you want a comforting weeknight dinner, a meal-prep option, or a customizable dish to suit family preferences, this recipe delivers on all fronts. By adjusting the spice, swapping grains, or adding vegetables, you can tailor it exactly to your taste. This satisfying, balanced, and flavorful bowl will quickly become a household favorite.

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