Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: Flavor Explosion Under 30 Mins

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Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Bang Bang Chicken Bowl has become my absolute go-to for a quick and incredibly satisfying meal. I remember the first time I tried a version of this years ago – the combination of tender, juicy chicken coated in that creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce was a revelation! It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes in delight with every bite. If you’re wondering how to make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl at home, you’re in for a treat because this recipe is truly an easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl to whip up, even on the busiest weeknights. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a weeknight winner for so many reasons:

  • Incredible Flavor: A perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy that will tantalize your taste buds.
  • Lightning Fast Prep: You can have this on the table in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
  • Healthier Homemade: Enjoy all the deliciousness without the restaurant markup or hidden ingredients.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses common pantry staples and affordable chicken for a cost-effective meal.
  • Family Approved: Even picky eaters will devour this flavorful chicken bowl.
  • Customizable Heat: Easily adjust the spice level to create your perfect Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl.
  • Satisfyingly Creamy: The rich sauce makes this a truly comforting and Creamy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl experience.

Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Ingredients

Gathering your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl ingredients is the first step to this amazing meal. You’ll need:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast – cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower) – for serving
  • 1 cup mixed veggies (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots) – fresh or frozen work fine
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the chicken
  • Salt and pepper to taste – to season the chicken
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise – the base for our creamy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sriracha – this gives it that signature kick!
  • 1 tablespoon honey – for a touch of sweetness to balance the heat
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds a savory depth
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice – brightens all the flavors

The magic is really in the sauce! Making this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl sauce recipe from scratch is super simple, and the combination of mayo, sriracha, and honey is what makes this dish so irresistible. For more delicious chicken recipes, check out our collection of chicken dishes.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Ready to create your own delicious Bang Bang Chicken Bowl? This recipe is designed to be incredibly straightforward, making it a perfect easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl to master. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen!

  1. Step 1: Start by preparing your rice according to the package directions. While the rice cooks, cut your boneless, skinless chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. Sauté for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  3. Step 3: While the chicken cooks, whisk together the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sriracha, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon lime juice. Taste and adjust the sriracha and honey to achieve your desired sweet and spicy balance.
  4. Step 4: Add your 1 cup mixed veggies to the skillet with the chicken. Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the vegetables are tender-crisp. You want them to retain a bit of crunch!
  5. Step 5: Remove the skillet from the heat. Pour the creamy Bang Bang sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything gently to coat evenly.
  6. Step 6: Serve this amazing Bang Bang Chicken recipe immediately over your freshly cooked rice. Spoon the saucy chicken and veggies right on top for a complete and satisfying meal.

Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: Flavor Explosion Under 30 Mins - Bang Bang Chicken Bowl - additional detail

Preparing the Rice

First, get your rice going according to the package instructions. Whether you prefer white, brown, or even cauliflower rice, make sure it’s cooked and ready to be the fluffy base for your bowl. Set it aside once done.

Preparing and Cooking the Chicken

Cut your 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Season them well with salt and pepper for flavor. Then, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Proper cooking temperatures are crucial for food safety, as outlined by the USDA.

Crafting the Creamy Bang Bang Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the sauce ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sriracha, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon lime juice. Whisk it all together until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning – more sriracha for heat, more honey for sweetness!

Combining and Serving

Add your 1 cup mixed veggies to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir for a couple of minutes until they’re tender-crisp. Pour the prepared Bang Bang sauce over everything and toss to coat. Serve this delicious mixture over your cooked rice. If you enjoy similar flavor profiles, you might also like our Indian Butter Chicken Recipe.

Pro Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Want to elevate your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl game? I’ve picked up a few tricks that make all the difference:

  • For extra tender chicken, try marinating it in a little soy sauce and cornstarch for about 15 minutes before cooking.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken; cook in batches if necessary to ensure a nice golden-brown sear.
  • Taste and adjust the sauce *before* adding it to the chicken and veggies. This is key to perfecting your flavor profile.
  • Using leftover cooked rice works perfectly fine for this dish, making it even more of a weeknight lifesaver.

What’s the secret to perfect Bang Bang Chicken Bowl sauce?

The real secret to a perfect Bang Bang Chicken Bowl sauce recipe lies in the balance. It’s all about that creamy base from the mayonnaise, the sweet kick from the honey, and the spicy punch from the sriracha. My tip is to taste and adjust the sriracha and honey ratio until it’s just right for your palate before you even start cooking the chicken.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl ahead of time?

You absolutely can prep components ahead! Cook the chicken and the rice separately and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce can also be made ahead and stored. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat the chicken and rice, then toss them with the sauce and add fresh veggies. For other make-ahead meal ideas, consider our Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?

The biggest pitfalls are usually overcooked chicken and mushy vegetables. To avoid this, make sure not to cook the chicken for too long – it should be just cooked through. Also, add your vegetables towards the very end of cooking the chicken so they stay tender-crisp, not soggy.

Best Ways to Serve Your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Once you’ve mastered this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl recipe, you’ll want to serve it up in all sorts of delicious ways! For a truly authentic experience, serve it piping hot over fluffy white or brown rice. If you’re looking for a lighter option, cauliflower rice is a fantastic choice and makes it a great healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl. For a different flavor profile, try our Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry.

For those who love a bit more kick, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of extra sriracha. If you’re pairing this with other dishes, it complements a simple side salad or some steamed edamame beautifully. It’s versatile enough to be the star of your meal, or a fantastic part of a larger spread, especially if you’re exploring other Spicy chicken bowl recipe ideas or comforting Creamy chicken bowl recipe options.

Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: Flavor Explosion Under 30 Mins - Bang Bang Chicken Bowl - main visual representation

Nutrition Facts for Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for a single serving of this delicious Bang Bang Chicken Bowl:

  • Calories: 550
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
  • Sodium: 600mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

How to Store and Reheat Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl recipe is fantastic for meal prep, as the flavors actually meld and improve overnight! Once everything is cooked, let the chicken and sauce mixture cool down completely before portioning. I like to store mine in airtight glass containers, separating the chicken and veggie mixture from the rice to prevent sogginess. You can keep these delicious bowls in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to store them for longer, they freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re in freezer-safe containers. For more meal prep inspiration, consider our Coconut Chicken Meatballs.

When you’re ready to enjoy your stored Chicken Bang Bang Bowl, the easiest way to reheat is in the microwave. Simply pop a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth if you prefer a crisper texture. Enjoy your homemade goodness!

Frequently Asked Questions About Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

What is Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?

A Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a popular dish featuring tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken coated in a signature creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce, typically served over rice with mixed vegetables. It’s a flavor-packed meal that’s become a favorite for its delicious balance of tastes and textures.

Can I make a healthier Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?

Absolutely! To make a healthier version, you can use Greek yogurt or light mayonnaise in the sauce, opt for brown rice or cauliflower rice, and load up on extra vegetables. This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl recipe is very adaptable to fit your dietary needs.

What are the best vegetables to use for a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?

While broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots are classic choices, feel free to get creative! Snow peas, zucchini, snap peas, or even a mix of shredded cabbage work wonderfully. The key is to use vegetables that cook relatively quickly and maintain a nice crisp-tender texture.

How do I make the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl sauce spicier?

To amp up the heat in your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl sauce recipe, simply increase the amount of sriracha. You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce mixture. Always taste and adjust as you go!

Variations of Bang Bang Chicken Bowl You Can Try

Once you’ve perfected the classic, don’t be afraid to explore different ways to enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl! It’s a versatile dish that easily adapts to various preferences and cooking methods. For a lighter option, try making a Healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl by swapping the rice for cauliflower rice and using light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in the sauce. It cuts down on calories without sacrificing flavor. If you’re looking for other healthy chicken options, consider our Mediterranean Chicken Gyros.

If you’re short on time or want a hands-off approach, an Air fryer Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is fantastic. Just cook the chicken pieces in your air fryer until golden, then toss them with the sauce and veggies. Another great option is a Sheet pan Bang Bang Chicken Bowl; toss the chicken and your favorite vegetables with a little oil and seasonings, roast them on a sheet pan, and then mix with the sauce. These variations make it easy to enjoy this delicious meal any way you like!

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Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: Flavor Explosion Under 30 Mins


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  • Author: Manar Jota
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl recipe is perfect for beginner cooks. It features tender chicken, vibrant mixed vegetables, and a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce served over rice. It’s quick, flavorful, and ideal for weeknight dinners.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower)
  • 1 cup mixed veggies (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sriracha
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice

Instructions

  1. Cook the Rice: Prepare rice according to package instructions; set aside.
  2. Prepare Chicken: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces; season with salt and pepper.
  3. Sauté Chicken: In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Cook chicken until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 6-8 minutes).
  4. Make Sauce: In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, garlic powder, and lime juice. Adjust to taste.
  5. Add Veggies: Stir in mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.
  6. Combine: Remove from heat; pour sauce over chicken and veggies. Serve over rice.

Notes

  • For a spicier bowl, add more sriracha to the sauce.
  • For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of sriracha.
  • Feel free to substitute vegetables based on your preference.
  • Ensure chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Don’t overcook the vegetables to maintain their crispness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

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