This Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl features tender chicken, delicious rice, and that creamy, spicy sauce that makes everything better. It’s a fun, tasty meal that everyone will love!
Trust me, the best part is drizzling that zesty sauce all over. I always add a little extra—why not? It’s a party in a bowl! 🎉 Enjoy it for lunch or dinner; it’s super simple to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using turkey breast. You can also substitute with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version!
Rice: Jasmine rice gives a lovely fragrance. If you prefer brown rice for its health benefits, that’s great too! Just remember it may need extra cooking time.
Vegetable Oil: Any cooking oil works, but I often use canola or peanut oil for added flavor. For a hint of richness, olive oil is a good substitute as well.
Bang Bang Sauce: If you’re out of mayonnaise, use Greek yogurt for a lighter and tangy flavor. You can swap sweet chili sauce with hoisin sauce for a different twist.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken correctly is key for juicy results. Here are a few simple steps:
- Cut the chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Heat the skillet fully before adding the chicken to get a nice sear.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can check with a meat thermometer.
- If unsure, cut into a piece to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.
Keeping these tips in mind will help you avoid dry chicken and get that perfect golden-brown color!
Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken Bowl:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup jasmine or long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water (for cooking rice)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional for sweetness)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15 minutes on prep and cooking, plus a few extra minutes for assembly. It’s a quick and delicious meal you can whip up any day of the week!
Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover it, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. Once done, take it off the heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
2. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and garlic until everything is smooth and well-combined. Feel free to taste it and adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha according to your preference!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add in the chicken pieces. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Assemble the Bowl:
Now it’s time to assemble! Divide the cooked rice into bowls. Top each bowl with the sautéed chicken, shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and sliced green onions.
5. Drizzle with Bang Bang Sauce:
Generously drizzle the prepared Bang Bang sauce over each bowl. If you like, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an added crunch and a touch of flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Bang Bang Chicken Bowls immediately for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy this vibrant and tasty meal that’s sure to please everyone!
This recipe is simple, flavorful, and perfect for a quick homemade meal inspired by the tangy, spicy Bang Bang flavors!
FAQ for Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or using the cold-water method, where you seal the chicken in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Vegetables Can I Add or Substitute?
Feel free to get creative! You can add bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or even diced cucumbers. If you prefer, you can substitute the cabbage with spinach or kale for a different flavor and texture. Just ensure that any vegetables you add are chopped into bite-sized pieces.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken Bowl components in separate airtight containers. The chicken and vegetables can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, while the rice can last for about 4 days. When reheating, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, and add a splash of water to keep the rice moist.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The Bang Bang sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as some ingredients may settle. You can adjust the spice level at that time too!
