Starting with a burst of flavor, the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is not just a meal; it’s an experience that whisks you away to vibrant eateries where each bite delights your taste buds. This dish combines crispy chicken, creamy spicy sauce, and fresh veggies over a comforting bed of jasmine rice. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner option or a dish that will wow your friends at your next gathering, this bowl does it all. Its unique balance of textures and flavors truly sets it apart, making it a favorite in many households, including my own.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe shines for several reasons. First off, it’s an incredibly versatile dish. Perfectly suited for a busy weeknight when you need something quick, it can also be dressed up for a special occasion. The crunchy chicken, lush sauce, and crisp vegetables come together for a balanced meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. It’s also budget-friendly, making it accessible for any home cook.
"I made this for my family, and they couldn’t get enough! The crispy chicken and spicy sauce are just perfect together!" — Sarah, food enthusiast.
How this recipe comes together
Making a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a straightforward process that requires minimal time while delivering maximum flavor. You’ll start by coating the chicken in a delicate mixture of spices and cornstarch, frying it to perfection for a satisfying crunch. While the chicken cooks, a simple and delicious spicy mayo sauce comes together. Finally, you’ll assemble everything into a colorful bowl that looks as good as it tastes!
What you’ll need
To get started on your culinary adventure, here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil for frying
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Feel free to tweak any ingredients to cater to your family’s preferences or dietary needs!
Directions to follow
- In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss the chicken pieces in the mixture until well coated.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth. Adjust the sriracha to your desired spice level.
- To assemble the bowls, start with a base of jasmine rice. Top with the cooked chicken, shredded lettuce, diced cucumber, shredded carrots, and green onions.
- Drizzle the spicy mayo sauce over the top and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately.
Best ways to enjoy it
To elevate your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, consider plating it in a large, colorful bowl that showcases the ingredients. You could add a side of edamame or a crisp spring roll for a full meal experience. Pair it with a refreshing drink, such as iced green tea or a mango smoothie, to balance the spicy flavors of the dish.
How to store & freeze
If you have leftovers (though they might not last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll typically be good for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. If you want to freeze, it’s best to keep the chicken and veggies separate from the rice, which can become mushy. Just follow safe food handling practices to keep your meal flavorful and safe!
Helpful cooking tips
- For extra crunch, double fry the chicken—remove it after the initial fry, let it rest for a few minutes, and then give it a second fry for a crispier finish.
- Be sure to adjust the spice level in the spicy mayo to suit your taste. Adding more or less sriracha changes the whole game.
- Prepping ingredients in advance can save you time during the cooking process, especially if you chop your vegetables ahead of time.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? You can add unique toppings such as pickled radishes, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for added flavor and texture. If you want a lighter option, swap the jasmine rice for quinoa or a bed of mixed greens. For a vegan twist, substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas, and the mayo with a plant-based alternative.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
The total time from prep to table is about 30 minutes, making it a perfect quick meal for busy nights.
Can I use other types of rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice or cauliflower rice can be wonderful alternatives, but be mindful of the cooking times.
Is this dish spicy?
The spice level can be easily adjusted by modifying the amount of sriracha in the sauce. It’s a customizable delight!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the components ahead of time. Store the chicken, sauce, and veggies separately and combine them right before serving for the best texture.
This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a delightful nod to flavors and textures that will surely become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Dive in and enjoy!
Print
Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A flavorful bowl featuring crispy chicken, creamy spicy sauce, and fresh veggies over jasmine rice.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil for frying
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss the chicken pieces in the mixture until well coated.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth. Adjust the sriracha to your desired spice level.
- To assemble the bowls, start with a base of jasmine rice. Top with the cooked chicken, shredded lettuce, diced cucumber, shredded carrots, and green onions.
- Drizzle the spicy mayo sauce over the top and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
For extra crunch, double fry the chicken for a crispier finish.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian