Name: Irresistible Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: Quick, Easy & Delicious
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (The star of the dish.); 1/2 cup Cornstarch (For coating.); 1 cup Vegetable Oil (For frying.); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 2 cups Broccoli Florets (Can substitute with green beans or snap peas.); 1 medium Bell Pepper (Any color works.); 1 cup Shredded Carrots (Zucchini can be a substitute.); 2 stalks Green Onions (For garnish.); 4 cups Cooked Rice (White or Brown); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Creamy base.); 1/4 cup Sweet Chili Sauce (Adjust for sweetness.); 1-3 tablespoons Sriracha Sauce (Adjust for heat.); 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil; 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds (For garnish.)

The aroma of sizzling chicken wafted through my kitchen one busy weeknight, instantly turning a mundane dinner into a delightful escape. That’s how I discovered the joy of the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl—a quick and simple meal that seamlessly fuses crispy, golden chicken with a medley of vibrant veggies and a creamy, spicy sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. What I love most about this dish is its adaptability; whether you prefer a mild kick or a fiery punch, you can easily customize the spice level to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to whip up lunch or dinner that will satisfy everyone at the table. Ready to dive into a bowl that’s bursting with flavor and color? Let’s get cooking!

Why Is This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl a Winner?

Quick and Easy: Within just 30 minutes, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal that’s sure to impress!

Customizable Delight: Adjust the spice to your preference—mild or wild, it caters to every palate.

Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for busy schedules, this dish holds up well in the fridge, making lunch or dinner a breeze.

Colorful and Nutritious: Packed with vibrant veggies, this bowl not only looks appealing but also nourishes and energizes.

Crispy and Creamy Harmony: The juxtaposition of crispy chicken and creamy sauce creates a delightful textural experience that you won’t forget!

Once you see how easy it is to prepare, you’ll be racing to try other comforting meals like Garlic Parmesan Chicken or Lemon Chicken Tangy. Comfort food has never been so exciting!

Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Ingredients

For the Chicken

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The star of the dish, promising crispy satisfaction with every bite.
Cornstarch – Essential for achieving that perfect crispy coating when frying.
Vegetable Oil – Necessary for frying, creating that golden-brown crunch that makes this bowl irresistible.
Salt and Pepper – These basic seasonings elevate the dish, enhancing each flavor perfectly.

For the Veggies

Broccoli Florets – This adds a fresh, crisp texture; feel free to swap for green beans or snap peas for variety.
Bell Pepper – Offers sweetness and crunch; any color will work beautifully for visual appeal.
Shredded Carrots – A touch of sweetness and nutrition; zucchini can be a great substitute if desired.
Green Onions – A lovely garnish that adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.

For the Bowl

Cooked Rice (White or Brown) – Acts as the hearty base; consider whole grains for a healthier twist.

For the Sauce

Mayonnaise – The creamy foundation that ties the flavors together.
Sweet Chili Sauce – Infuses sweetness and depth; customize the amount for your preference.
Sriracha Sauce – Adds the heat; adjust to your liking for that personalized spice level in the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl.
Sesame Oil – Enhances the dish’s umami profile, making every bite even more satisfying.
Sesame Seeds – A finishing touch that adds both texture and visual delight on top.

Now that you have the ingredients ready, let’s bring this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl to life!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Begin by taking your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slicing them into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, coat the chicken pieces thoroughly with cornstarch, salt, and pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. This crispy coating is key to the deliciousness of your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, so make sure it’s generously applied.

Step 2: Heat Oil
In a large skillet, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom generously and heat it over medium-high heat. You’ll know the oil is ready when it shimmers, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. This is the perfect time to prep for frying, as the hot oil will create that satisfying golden-brown crust on the chicken.

Step 3: Cook Chicken
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until each piece is beautifully golden and cooked through. Remove the crispy chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil, allowing it to stay crunchy for your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables
Using the same skillet, toss in the broccoli florets, bell peppers, and shredded carrots. Stir-fry the vegetables for 3-4 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp and vibrant in color. The residual oil and flavor from the chicken will add a delicious depth to the veggies, perfectly complementing your filling Bang Bang Chicken Bowl.

Step 5: Make Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and sesame oil. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy, adjusting the sriracha to suit your heat preference. This sauce will add a rich, spicy zing to your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, melding beautifully with the chicken and vegetables.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients
In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked rice, crispy chicken, and stir-fried vegetables. Drizzle the prepared sauce over everything, and gently toss to ensure each bite is coated with those delightful flavors. This mixing process brings together the elements of your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl for a harmonious meal.

Step 7: Serve
Ladle the colorful and flavorful mixture into individual bowls. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and a handful of sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal. Your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is now ready to be enjoyed—a vibrant and satisfying meal that’s as delicious as it is quick to prepare!

Make Ahead Options

These Bang Bang Chicken Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the chicken by coating it in cornstarch, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator for maximum freshness. Additionally, chop and stir-fry the vegetables ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 3 days; this keeps them vibrant and crisp. When ready to serve, simply fry the chicken as directed and mix in the prepped veggies and cooked rice. Drizzle with sauce just before serving to ensure everything remains flavorful and the chicken stays crispy, making your weeknight dinners both effortless and delicious!

What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?

Indulge in a culinary experience that blends colors, textures, and flavors to complement your delightful bowl of Bang Bang Chicken.

Creamy Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad adds a cooling crunch that balances the dish’s spiciness and enhances your dining experience.
Steamed Edamame: Simple yet satisfying, steamed edamame provides a plant-based protein option that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare.
Garlic Butter Broccolini: A savory side that echoes your bowl’s veggie elements while adding a rich, buttery flavor that tantalizes the palate.
Cauliflower Rice: For those seeking a low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice offers a light and satisfying base while absorbing the delicious sauce from your meal.
Mango Sticky Rice: A sweet and creamy dessert that contrasts beautifully with the savory flavors of the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, offering a harmonious finish to your meal.
Sparkling Water with Lime: This fizzy drink refreshes the palate and adds a hint of citrus, amplifying the existing flavors in your vibrant chicken bowl.

Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to tweak this recipe to match your culinary whims and preferences—after all, cooking should be a joyful journey!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of cornstarch for coating the chicken, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish.
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra layer of heat that’s sure to awaken your taste buds.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate mushrooms or zucchini for a delightful twist in texture; these additions carry flavors beautifully while enhancing the dish.
Vegan Option: Swap the chicken for crispy tofu and mayonnaise for a plant-based mayo to keep the essence of the bowl alive while catering to vegan diets.
Herbed Twist: Fresh cilantro or basil can add an aromatic layer of flavor; fold them into your chicken and veggie mix for a refreshing finish.
Flavor Infusion: Experiment with different sauce combinations, like teriyaki or hoisin, for a unique taste that’ll make your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl truly your own.
Add Crunch: Top with chopped peanuts or cashews for an added crunch and that delightful nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

Don’t miss out on exploring other incredible recipes like Chicken Etouffee Savory or Parmesan Crusted Chicken to keep your kitchen adventures exciting and delicious!

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Crispiness Matter: Ensure the oil reaches the right temperature before frying; too cool oil will lead to soggy chicken, ruining your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl.
Spice Balance: Start with a small amount of sriracha in the sauce and gradually increase to your preference; it’s easier to add heat than to take it away!
Veggie Flexibility: Don’t hesitate to mix and match seasonal vegetables; using what you have on hand can enhance the flavor of your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl.
Storage Savvy: If meal prepping, store each component separately to keep the chicken crispy and veggies fresh, ensuring great taste when reheating.
Garnish for Greatness: Add fresh herbs or lime wedges as a garnish; these elements can elevate the dish, making your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl even more delightful!

How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps retain the flavors and textures of your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Bowl.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, pack the chicken and vegetables in separate containers and freeze for up to 2 months. This preserves the quality, especially if you plan to enjoy the dish later.
Reheating: For best results, reheat the components separately in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This prevents the chicken from becoming soggy and keeps the veggies crisp.
Meal Prep Tip: Consider storing the sauce in a separate container to maintain its creamy consistency. Drizzle it over the reheated bowl just before serving for that fresh flavor!

Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for my Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose chicken breasts that are fresh and firm, with no visible dark spots. Opt for bright green broccoli, bell peppers that are smooth and shiny, and carrots that are firm to the touch. For the sweetest flavor, pick ripe bell peppers, as their color indicates ripeness—red being the sweetest, followed by orange and yellow.

What’s the best way to store leftovers from the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?
Very! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and the veggies crisp. Just make sure to let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing it, which helps to avoid condensation buildup.

Can I freeze my Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?
Yes, you can! For freezing, separate the chicken and vegetables into individual airtight containers. Place them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat the components separately in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through to maintain their texture.

What should I do if the chicken turns out soggy?
Don’t worry! If your chicken becomes soggy, it could be due to not frying it at the correct oil temperature. To avoid this, ensure the oil is hot—about 350°F (175°C)—before adding the chicken. For a quick fix, if the chicken is already cooked, you can pop it onto a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes to regain some crispiness.

Are there any dietary considerations for the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?
Certainly! If you have allergies, this dish contains mayonnaise, which has eggs. You can use a vegan mayo if you’re looking for a dairy-free or egg-free option. Additionally, if you have a gluten intolerance, be sure to choose gluten-free sauces and cornstarch. Always check labels to ensure ingredients meet your dietary needs.

Can I adjust the spice level in the sauce?
Absolutely! The beauty of the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl lies in its customizability. Start with a small amount of sriracha in your sauce, and mix well. Taste and gradually add more if you desire extra heat. If someone prefers a milder flavor, you can serve sriracha on the side or leave it out altogether without losing the essence of the dish!