Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the sun dips below the horizon and hurried weeknight dinners loom, I often find myself craving something satisfying yet simple. Enter the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl—a delightful fusion of crunchy chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy, spicy sauce resting atop fluffy jasmine rice. This recipe shines, taking less than 30 minutes to whip up, making it a true lifesaver on those busy nights. Plus, its customizable nature lets you adjust the protein, spice levels, and veggies to match your tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for crispy chicken, tofu, or even chickpeas, this bowl has got your back—delivering a nutritious and delicious meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Ready to create a comforting yet lively dish that will transform your dinner routine? Let’s dive in! Why is Bang Bang Chicken Bowl a Must-Try? Simplicity: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings. Customizable: Tailor your meal with options like chicken, tofu, or chickpeas to fit everyone’s preferences. Flavor Explosion: Enjoy a delightful combination of crispy textures and a creamy, spicy sauce that tantalizes your taste buds. Nutritious and Balanced: Each serving provides a wholesome mix of protein, veggies, and carbs without sacrificing flavor. Meal Prep Hero: Make-ahead friendly, these bowls are ideal for quick lunches or dinners. Check out more meal prep ideas to enhance your cooking routine! Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Ingredients For the Rice • Cooked Jasmine Rice – Perfectly fluffy base for the bowl; substitute with brown rice for added fiber. For the Protein • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Ideal choice for a juicy protein boost; replace with crispy tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. For the Crispy Coating • Cornstarch – Gives chicken an irresistible crunch; can be omitted for a healthier version. For Seasoning • Salt – Elevates flavors beautifully; feel free to use sea salt or kosher salt for a nice touch. • Black Pepper – Adds a mild kick; omit if you prefer a milder dish. • Garlic Powder – Provides savory depth; fresh minced garlic is a great substitute if available. • Paprika – Offers subtle smokiness and color; optional for personal customization. For Frying • Vegetable Oil – Essential for that crispy texture when frying; you can use avocado oil as a lighter alternative. For the Sauce • Mayonnaise – Binds the sauce, creating creaminess; swap with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. • Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds the perfect balance of sweetness and tang; consider honey or agave syrup as a substitute if needed. • Sriracha – Introduces heat; adjust to your taste or omit for a milder sauce. For the Toppings • Shredded Lettuce – Adds refreshing crunch to the bowl; feel free to use your favorite greens! • Diced Cucumber – Offers a cool contrast in texture; replace with other crisp veggies if desired. • Shredded Carrots – Brings both sweetness and color; customize with bell peppers or avocado for additional nutrients. • Chopped Green Onions – Gives a nice burst of flavor; optional, but recommended for freshness. • Sesame Seeds – Perfect for garnish, adding a delightful crunch and visual appeal; entirely optional but greatly enhances the dish. This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is as flexible as it is delicious, allowing you to mix and match ingredients to create a meal that caters to your taste buds! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well blended, ensuring an even distribution of flavors. This seasoning mix will create a flavorful crispy coating for the chicken, enhancing your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl with delicious depth. Step 2: Coat the Chicken Take the bite-sized pieces of boneless skinless chicken breasts and toss them in the seasoning mixture until fully coated. Make sure every piece gets an even layer for ultimate crispiness. This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown, satisfying texture that makes your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl irresistible. Step 3: Heat the Oil In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough for frying. This should take about 2–3 minutes. A properly heated oil ensures that the chicken sizzles upon contact and helps create that perfect crispy texture for your dish. Step 4: Fry the Chicken Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in a single layer. Fry them for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Keep an eye on the pieces to prevent burning and ensure even cooking, which is key for elevating your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl. Step 5: Make the Spicy Mayo Sauce While the chicken fries, take a small bowl and mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth. Use a whisk or fork to combine thoroughly. Taste the sauce and adjust the sriracha to match your preferred spice level, ensuring your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl has just the right kick. Step 6: Assemble the Bowl Begin assembling your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl by placing a generous scoop of cooked jasmine rice at the bottom. Layer the crispy chicken pieces on top, followed by an array of fresh veggies like shredded lettuce, diced cucumber, and shredded carrots. This build-up of flavors and textures makes each bite heavenly. Step 7: Drizzle and Garnish Finish off your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl by drizzling the creamy spicy mayo sauce generously over the top. For an added touch, sprinkle sesame seeds for texture and visual appeal. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm, crispy chicken and cool, fresh veggies that come together in this delightful dish. Make Ahead Options These Bang Bang Chicken Bowls are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can prepare the crispy chicken, spicy mayo sauce, and even chop your veggies up to 3 days in advance. Simply coat the chicken in the seasoning mixture and refrigerate it raw in an airtight container. You can also whisk the sauce and store it separately in the fridge to maintain its creamy texture. When it’s time to eat, just fry the chicken until golden brown—this ensures it stays crispy and fresh. Assemble your bowls with rice and veggies right before serving for that vibrant touch that makes every bite so rewarding! How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Keep crispy components separate from the sauce and rice for optimal texture. Freezer: The chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place in a freezer-safe container, but avoid freezing the sauce, as it may separate upon thawing. Reheating: To reheat, bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. Add any fresh veggies just before serving to keep them crisp. Meal Prep: For efficient meal prep, separate cooked jasmine rice and toppings in individual containers to maintain freshness throughout the week. What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Bowl? The perfect side dishes can turn your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl into an unforgettable dining experience, adding delightful flavors and textures. Crispy Garlic Roasted Broccoli: The crunchy, caramelized edges of broccoli coated in garlic complement the bowl’s creamy sauce superbly. Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness! Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw: This crunchy, slightly sweet slaw offers a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken and creamy sauce. It’s bright, colorful, and perfect for balancing flavors. Creamy Coconut Rice: Infused with coconut milk, this rice brings a rich creaminess that complements the spicy flavors of the bowl, enhancing its tropical elements. Grilled Pineapple Slices: Sweet, juicy pineapple adds a tropical zing that contrasts beautifully with savory and spicy notes. It’s a fun, unexpected twist! Mango Avocado Salad: A simple salad with diced mango and creamy avocado provides a burst of freshness. This light dish pairs well with the heartiness of your chicken bowl. Chilled Cucumber Soup: A refreshing dip for your chicken bowl; this cool soup helps balance the flavors and offers a unique taste experience with its lightness. Sparkling Ginger Lemonade: This refreshing drink, with its zingy ginger notes, complements the heat of the bowl while keeping your palate cleansed and revitalized. Key Lime Pie Bars: End on a sweet note with these tangy and creamy bars. Their tartness contrasts beautifully with the flavors of the chicken bowl, making dessert a true treat! Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Variations Feel free to get creative with your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl and tailor it to your taste and dietary needs! Vegetarian: Swap chicken for crispy tofu or roasted chickpeas for a satisfying meatless option. This variation not only caters to vegans but also provides a deliciously hearty twist. Grain-Free: Use cauliflower rice instead of jasmine or brown rice for a lower-carb meal that still offers plenty of textures and flavors. Heat Level: Adjust the sriracha in the sauce according to your spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder taste, you can omit it entirely or substitute with a mild hot sauce. Extra Creamy: For an even richer sauce, mix in a bit of coconut cream with the mayonnaise. This adds a silky texture and a subtle sweetness that complements the other flavors beautifully. Fresh Veggie Boost: Add cherry tomatoes or sliced bell peppers for a splash of color and added nutrients. Incorporating seasonal vegetables makes the dish vibrant and refreshing. Asian Twist: Drizzle with a soy or tamari sauce instead of, or in addition to, the spicy mayo for an umami flavor boost. This enhances the overall taste and makes it feel like a delightful fusion dish. Crunchy Toppings: Top with crunchy peanuts or cashews for an extra layer of texture. They offer a delightful contrast to the crispy chicken and creamy sauce. Herb Infusion: Mix in some fresh cilantro or basil for a fragrant touch that elevates the overall flavor profile. These herbs beautifully enhance the dish’s freshness and aroma. This versatile Bang Bang Chicken Bowl can easily adapt to suit any palate, making it an unbeatable weeknight dinner option that everyone will love! For more tips on how to spice up your home-cooking, check out our delicious meal prep ideas and vegetarian recipes. Enjoy your culinary adventure! Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Perfectly Crispy Chicken: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. If it’s not shimmering, let it heat a bit longer for the best crunch. Customize the Sauce: Adjust sriracha to your spice preference; start with less and add more for a milder or spicier Bang Bang Chicken Bowl. Make Ahead: Store leftover chicken and sauce separately to maintain texture; it’s a great meal prep option for busy weeks. Vegetarian Variations: For a hearty vegetarian version, use crispy tofu or roasted chickpeas, giving you a satisfying option without sacrificing flavor. Fresh Veggies: Use the freshest vegetables you can find for the toppings; they provide a delightful crunch and elevate every bite of your bowl. Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe FAQs What type of rice should I use for the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl? I recommend using cooked jasmine rice for a fluffy and aromatic base. If you’re looking for a healthier option, brown rice is an excellent substitute, adding more fiber and a nuttier flavor that complements the dish nicely. How should I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken Bowl? Absolutely! Store your leftover Bang Bang Chicken Bowl in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispy texture of the chicken and prevent the veggies from getting soggy, keep them separately from the rice and sauce until you’re ready to enjoy them again. Can I freeze portions of the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl? Yes, you can freeze the chicken for up to 2 months! Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container. However, I recommend not freezing the spicy mayo sauce, as it may separate when thawed. To reheat, bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through, and add fresh veggies just before serving. What can I do if my chicken doesn’t turn out crispy? For perfectly crispy chicken, always make sure the oil is hot (it should shimmer) before adding the coated chicken pieces. If the oil isn’t hot enough, your chicken may become soggy instead of crispy. Also, try not to overcrowd the pan—frying in batches can help maintain that mouthwatering crunch. Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies? Yes, this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is quite customizable to accommodate various dietary restrictions! For gluten-free versions, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your sauces are marked as gluten-free. If you have allergies to specific ingredients like soy or eggs, feel free to substitute the mayo with Greek yogurt or a non-dairy yogurt option. Always check ingredient labels when unsure. Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: Quick, Crispy & Fully Customizable The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a quick, satisfying meal packed with crispy chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy, spicy sauce, creating a delightful fusion for dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: American, AsianCalories: 500 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Rice2 cups Cooked Jasmine Rice Substitute with brown rice for added fiber.For the Protein1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Replace with crispy tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.For the Crispy Coating1/2 cup Cornstarch Can be omitted for a healthier version.For Seasoning1 teaspoon Salt Feel free to use sea salt or kosher salt.1 teaspoon Black Pepper Omit for a milder dish.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic is a great substitute.1 teaspoon Paprika Optional for customization.For Frying1/4 cup Vegetable Oil Use avocado oil as a lighter alternative.For the Sauce1/2 cup Mayonnaise Swap with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.1/4 cup Sweet Chili Sauce Consider honey or agave syrup as substitutes.1 tablespoon Sriracha Adjust to taste or omit for a milder sauce.For the Toppings2 cups Shredded Lettuce Use your favorite greens.1 cup Diced Cucumber Replace with other crisp veggies if desired.1 cup Shredded Carrots Customize with bell peppers or avocado.1/4 cup Chopped Green Onions Optional, but recommended for freshness.1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds Optional but enhances the dish. Equipment large mixing bowlSkilletwhisk Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Whisk together until well blended.Toss bite-sized pieces of chicken in the seasoning mixture until fully coated.Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2–3 minutes.Fry the coated chicken pieces for 5–7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.Mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust to taste.Assemble your bowl with a scoop of rice, topped with crispy chicken and fresh veggies.Drizzle the spicy mayo sauce over the top and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 350IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesCustomize your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl by mixing and matching proteins, vegetables, and spice levels according to your preference. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
