This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a delightful meal that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh vegetables over warm rice. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish offers a burst of flavor in every bite. The unique blend of spicy, sweet, and savory elements makes it a standout option for various occasions, whether you’re hosting friends or simply enjoying a comforting meal at home.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The creamy Bang Bang sauce brings a delicious mix of spice and sweetness that will leave you wanting more.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and lean chicken, this bowl is a nutritious choice without sacrificing taste.
Customizable Options: Feel free to swap out veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make several bowls in advance for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather these essential tools before starting your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Mixing bowl
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures even cooking of the chicken while preventing it from sticking.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the ingredients for the Bang Bang sauce thoroughly.
Chef’s knife: A sharp knife helps you dice vegetables quickly and 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 desired spice level.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add vegetable oil.
2. Season chicken cubes with paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
3. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken.
4. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked:
1. Remove from heat.
2. Pour the prepared sauce over the hot chicken.
3. Toss until all pieces are well coated.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

For each bowl:
1. Place 1 cup of warm rice as the base.
2. Top with cooked chicken coated in Bang Bang sauce.
3. Add sliced red cabbage, julienned carrot, cucumber slices, and avocado on top.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, packed with nutrition and taste!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Serving a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is all about creating a beautifully layered dish that bursts with flavor and texture. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Customize Your Bowl

Choose Your Rice: While white rice is traditional, consider brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.
Add Extra Heat: Sprinkle additional Sriracha on top for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

Garnish Ideas

Fresh Herbs: Top with fresh cilantro or green onions for brightness and freshness.
Crunch Factor: Add crushed peanuts or crispy shallots for an extra crunch.

Pairing Drinks

Iced Tea: A refreshing iced tea can balance the richness of the sauce.
Sparkling Water: Infused sparkling water with lime or cucumber can cleanse the palate.

Serving Style

Family Style: Serve the components separately, allowing guests to build their own bowls.
Pre-Made Bowls: For meal prep, assemble bowls in advance and store them in the fridge for easy access during the week.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

To achieve the ultimate Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, focus on balancing flavors and textures for an unforgettable meal. Here are some tips to help you perfect this dish.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and add vibrant colors to your bowl.
Marinate the Chicken: Allowing chicken to marinate in the sauce for a few hours will deepen the flavors.
Cook Chicken Evenly: Ensure that chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking and tenderness.
Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, whisk in a little water or more Thai chili sauce for a smoother finish.
Experiment with Toppings: Try adding pickled vegetables or sesame oil drizzle for added complexity.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Pairing side dishes with your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl can enhance the overall dining experience. Here’s a selection of delightful sides that complement this flavorful dish.

Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and color, making it a perfect side.
Edamame Beans: These protein-packed beans bring a satisfying crunch and freshness to your meal.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is a comforting addition that balances the spicy flavors of your chicken bowl.
Asian Slaw: A tangy Asian slaw adds crispness and complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar provides a nice contrast to the rich chicken.
Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with veggies serve as a fun finger food alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl can be simple, but there are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Skipping the marinade: Not letting the chicken marinate can result in bland flavor. Always marinate the chicken in the Bang Bang sauce before cooking for a richer taste.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long will make it dry. Aim for a quick sauté until just cooked through, about 10 minutes.
Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using old or wilted vegetables can diminish your bowl’s appeal. Always use fresh produce for vibrant color and flavor.
Rushing assembly: Layering ingredients haphazardly can lead to uneven flavors. Take your time to layer each component thoughtfully for an attractive presentation.
Neglecting optional toppings: Skipping garnishes like cilantro or sesame seeds can lessen the dish’s texture and flavor profile. Always add these for an extra burst of freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Freeze in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

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 is a delicious dish featuring chicken cubes tossed in a creamy and spicy sauce, served over rice with fresh vegetables.

Can I customize my Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?

Absolutely! You can switch out vegetables or use different proteins like shrimp or tofu to make it your own.

How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?

The spiciness can vary based on how much Sriracha you add. Start with small amounts and adjust according to your taste preference.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes! It includes lean protein and plenty of fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious option when prepared with mindful ingredients.

Final Thoughts

The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences by swapping out proteins or adding extra veggies. This dish brings comfort and joy to any meal—try it today!

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Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

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Author: Nora
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, a perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and vibrant fresh vegetables served over warm rice. This dish is an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prep, offering a satisfying mix of spicy, sweet, and savory notes that will impress your family and friends alike. Topped with avocado, cilantro, and sesame seeds, each bowl is not only nutritious but also visually appealing. Elevate your dining experience with this quick and easy recipe that promises to deliver a burst of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
1 ¼ cups mayonnaise
⅔ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons Sriracha (or to taste)
4 cups prepared white rice
2 cups red cabbage (thinly sliced)
1 large carrot (julienned)
1 medium cucumber (halved, sliced)
1 large avocado (thinly sliced)
fresh cilantro (for garnish)
sesame seeds (for garnish)

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Instructions

In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and Sriracha until smooth.
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken cubes with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook chicken until golden brown (about 6-8 minutes).
Remove the skillet from heat; pour the sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
For each serving bowl, layer warm rice as the base followed by the saucy chicken and top with red cabbage, carrots, cucumber slices, avocado slices, cilantro, and sesame seeds.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Asian