Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh vegetables over fluffy rice. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this bowl is not only quick to make but also bursting with flavor. The creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce elevates the dish, making it a standout option for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Sauce
• For the Chicken
• For Serving
• How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
• Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Combine Chicken with Sauce
• Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls
• Step 5: Garnish and Serve
• How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
• Add Fresh Herbs
• Include Extra Crunch
• Offer Customizable Toppings
• Pair with Beverages
• How to Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
• Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
• Reheating Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?
• How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?
• Can I make this dish healthy?
• What can I substitute for chicken?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes of prep time, dinner is ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet chili sauce and Sriracha creates a unique, delicious flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever veggies you have on hand to customize your bowl.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Easily scale the recipe for lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl effortlessly, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having the right tools can make cooking more enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures even cooking without sticking, making cleanup easier.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients thoroughly for the sauce and chicken.

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 mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and Sriracha. Whisk until smooth. Adjust Sriracha according to your spice preference.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add cubed chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 3: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked thoroughly, remove it from heat. Pour the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the chicken. Stir well to coat all pieces evenly.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

Divide warm rice among four bowls. Top each bowl with sautéed chicken coated in sauce. Add red cabbage, julienned carrots, cucumber slices, and avocado on top.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped cilantro and sesame seeds over each bowl before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Bang Bang Chicken Bowl!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Serving a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is all about enhancing its vibrant flavors and textures. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish that will impress your family and friends.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a fresh, zesty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
• Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor and brighten the dish visually.

Include Extra Crunch

• Chopped Peanuts: For an added crunch, sprinkle some chopped peanuts over the top. They also bring a nutty flavor that complements the chicken.
• Fried Shallots: Crispy fried shallots can add an extra layer of texture and sweetness.

Offer Customizable Toppings

• Sriracha Drizzle: For spice lovers, offer extra Sriracha on the side so everyone can adjust the heat to their liking.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice can elevate the flavors and add a refreshing citrus note.

Pair with Beverages

• Iced Tea: A glass of iced tea is a perfect non-alcoholic option that refreshes the palate.
• Sparkling Water: For something light, serve sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime.

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How to Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

To make your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl even better, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both preparation and presentation for an unforgettable meal.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best taste and texture.
• Marinate for Flavor: Letting the chicken marinate in a bit of the Bang Bang sauce before cooking can deepen its flavor.
• Cook in Batches: If making multiple bowls, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Use Warm Rice: Starting with warm rice helps meld all the flavors together beautifully when you assemble your bowl.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for variety.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy the bowls right after assembly for maximum freshness and crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Pairing sides with your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl can create a more fulfilling meal. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Steamed Edamame: These protein-packed soybeans are light and nutritious, making them a great complement.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add depth and richness to your meal with their savory flavor.
3. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar adds a refreshing crunch that balances out the richness of the bowl.
4. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks offer a comforting contrast and are perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce.
5. Miso Soup: The umami flavors of miso soup provide warmth and comfort alongside the bowl’s spiciness.
6. Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens drizzled in sesame dressing can enhance freshness without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to sidestep:

• Skipping the marinade – Not marinating the chicken means missing out on flavor. Allow the chicken to soak in the sauce before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking your chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for just 10 minutes or until fully cooked.
• Neglecting fresh toppings – Forgetting garnishes like cilantro and avocado can reduce freshness. Always add these right before serving.
• Using cold rice – Serving cold rice can affect the dish’s warmth and texture. Make sure to warm your rice before assembling your bowl.
• Ignoring spice levels – Not adjusting Sriracha to taste may leave you with a bland dish. Taste and modify spice levels as you cook.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep rice separate from chicken and veggies to maintain texture.

Freezing Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

• Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl.

What is a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?

A Bang Bang Chicken Bowl features cubed chicken in a creamy sauce, served over rice with fresh vegetables and toppings.

How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?

The spiciness of the sauce depends on how much Sriracha you use. Start with 2 teaspoons and adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I make this dish healthy?

Yes! You can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier sauce or add more vegetables for extra nutrients.

What can I substitute for chicken?

You can substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or even tempeh for a different protein source in your bowl.

Final Thoughts

The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different proteins or veggies based on your preferences. This dish offers a delightful explosion of flavors that is sure to please anyone at the dinner table. Give it a try, and enjoy creating your perfect bowl!