Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe | Spicy, Creamy & Flavorful
If you’re a fan of bold flavors and quick, satisfying meals, this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is for you! Inspired by the popular Bang Bang Chicken dish, this bowl combines crispy, tender chicken with a spicy, creamy sauce, fluffy rice, and fresh veggies. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors that’s easy to make at home. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a delicious dinner idea, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Let’s dive in!
Recipe Preparation Equipment
To make this dish, you’ll need the following equipment:
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs or spatula
- Baking sheet (if baking the chicken)
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious recipe:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk (or regular milk)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup (120g) mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
- 1 cup shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
How to Make Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Dip the chicken pieces in buttermilk, then coat them in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar.
- Taste and adjust the spiciness or sweetness to your preference.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
- In a serving bowl, layer cooked rice, shredded cabbage, and shredded carrots.
- Top with the crispy chicken pieces.
- Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the chicken.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, cilantro, and sesame seeds.
Variations
- Baked Chicken Option: For a healthier version, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch for the chicken coating.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with crispy tofu or cauliflower florets.
- Extra Spicy: Add extra sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Cooking Notes
- For extra crispy chicken, double-coat the pieces by dipping them in buttermilk and flour mixture twice.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying the chicken to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas for added veggies.
- Pair with a refreshing cucumber salad or kimchi for a tangy contrast.
- Enjoy as a quick lunch or dinner any day of the week.
Helpful Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
- To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and toss it in the Bang Bang sauce.
- Adjust the sauce ingredients to suit your taste—add more honey for sweetness or more sriracha for heat.
Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the buttermilk—it helps the coating stick to the chicken and adds moisture.
- Customize the bowl with your favorite veggies, such as avocado, bell peppers, or edamame.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
(Serves 4)
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but the chicken is best served fresh to maintain its crispiness. Store the components separately and assemble just before serving.
2. Can I use a different type of sauce?
Absolutely! Try teriyaki sauce, peanut sauce, or a simple soy-ginger dressing for a different flavor profile.
3. What can I use instead of rice?
You can use quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even noodles as a base for this bowl.
Conclusion
The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With its crispy chicken, spicy creamy sauce, and fresh veggies, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize. Whether you’re cooking for your family or enjoying a solo dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy the bold, delicious flavors of Bang Bang Chicken in every bite!
