Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a delightful meal that combines tender chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce, all served over warm rice and fresh vegetables. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The standout feature of this dish is the balance of textures and tastes, making it a satisfying choice 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
• Customize Your Bowl
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• Choose the Right Rice
• Squeeze Some Citrus
• Spice it Up
• 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?
• Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
• How can I customize my Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious bowl ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The creamy Bang Bang sauce adds a spicy kick that elevates the chicken to new heights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the veggies and toppings according to your taste preferences or what’s in season.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, this bowl is a nutritious choice for dinner.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These bowls store well, making them ideal for lunch the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gathering the right tools will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Non-stick skillet or wok
• Serving bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining the sauce ingredients and marinating the chicken evenly.
• Non-stick skillet or wok: Helps prevent sticking while cooking the chicken quickly at high heat.

Ingredients

This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl features several key ingredients that come together to create a flavorful dish.

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 large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and Sriracha until smooth. Adjust Sriracha according to your spice preference.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken breast seasoned with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 3: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from heat and toss it in the prepared Bang Bang sauce until well coated.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

In serving bowls, layer warm rice as the base. Top with sautéed chicken coated in Bang Bang sauce. Add sliced red cabbage, julienned carrot, cucumber slices, and avocado on top.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish each bowl with chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Bowl!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Serving a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is all about creating a vibrant and satisfying meal. This dish can be customized in various ways to suit your taste. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Customize Your Bowl

• Add extra veggies for crunch, like sliced bell peppers or snap peas.
• Include pickled vegetables for a tangy twist that complements the creamy sauce.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top with fresh cilantro to brighten up the flavors.
• Add green onions for an extra layer of flavor and color.

Choose the Right Rice

• Use jasmine rice for a fragrant base that pairs well with the spicy sauce.
• Consider cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that’s still delicious.

Squeeze Some Citrus

• A squeeze of lime juice adds a zesty freshness that balances the richness of the sauce.
• Lemon juice can also work well, giving your bowl a different flavor profile.

Spice it Up

• Drizzle more Sriracha on top if you prefer additional heat.
• Sprinkle chili flakes for an extra kick without altering the texture.

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How to Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

To make your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl truly unforgettable, consider these helpful tips. Each suggestion will enhance the flavors and presentation of this delightful dish.

• Marinate chicken: Letting your chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes will infuse it with more flavor.
• Cook chicken in batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
• Use quality ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality sauces will elevate your bowl’s taste significantly.
• Balance textures: Incorporate both crunchy and creamy elements for a satisfying bite every time.
• Serve warm: Enjoy your bowl at the ideal temperature to fully appreciate the flavors and textures.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Pairing your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl with complementary side dishes can create a more rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy green element that’s easy to prepare.
2. Miso Soup: This warm soup provides umami depth, perfect for balancing out the spice from the chicken bowl.
3. Edamame: These nutritious soybeans are simple to prepare and offer protein alongside your meal.
4. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing can provide freshness and crunch.
5. Cucumber Salad: A light salad dressed in rice vinegar can cool down any spiciness while adding crispness.
6. Fried Rice: Leftover fried rice can be an excellent accompaniment, providing additional flavor and substance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish significantly. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Ensure you cook the cubes just until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Neglecting seasoning: Skipping spices or seasoning will result in bland flavors. Season your chicken well with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper before cooking.
• Using the wrong rice: Not all rice works well for bowls. Opt for short or medium-grain rice for a stickier texture that holds up with the sauce.
• Skipping fresh toppings: Fresh ingredients like avocado and cilantro add depth. Don’t skip these; they provide essential flavor and texture contrasts.
• Incorrect sauce balance: Too much or too little sauce can ruin the dish. Adjust the Bang Bang sauce according to your taste preference by adding more Sriracha or honey.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

• Freeze in individual portions for easy meals later.
• Use freezer-safe containers and consume within 2-3 months.

Reheating Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl:

What is a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?

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

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

How can I customize my Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?

Feel free to add or substitute veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or even pineapple for extra sweetness!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is perfect for meal prep; just store components separately until ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level. This dish offers comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Give it a try, and enjoy creating your own version!