This Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is packed with flavor! Tender chicken is coated in a yummy sauce and served over rice with fresh veggies. It’s a fun meal that’s quick to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for easy cooking. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier bite or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times as needed!
Rice: You can use white or brown rice, depending on your preference. Quinoa or cauliflower rice are great alternatives for a low-carb option. Cook the grain a day ahead for a quick assembly!
Vegetables: I love using fresh lettuce and cucumbers for crunch. You can swap in any salad mix, or add bell peppers and avocado for extra flavor. Don’t hesitate to use whatever you have on hand!
Bang Bang Sauce: Mayonnaise gives this sauce its creaminess, but Greek yogurt can be a healthier swap. If you need dairy-free, use avocado mayo or leave it out altogether for a lighter dressing.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken so it stays tender and juicy is key for this dish. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Cut the chicken into even, bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Heat your skillet well before adding oil and chicken. This helps in achieving a golden crust.
- Cook on medium-high heat to sear the chicken, about 6-8 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning.
If you have time, marinating the chicken in a bit of the bang bang sauce for 30 minutes before cooking adds extra flavor!
Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bowl:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or mixed greens
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2-3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about another 10-15 minutes cooking the chicken and assembling the dish. It’s a quick and delightful meal that comes together in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
Start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions. Once it’s fluffy and ready, set it aside. This will form the base of your bowl.
2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar. Mix well and adjust the sriracha to your liking for a little extra heat. This creamy and spicy sauce is what makes the dish delicious!
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Make sure it’s nice and juicy!
4. Toss with Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, take the pan off the heat. Pour about half of the bang bang sauce over the chicken and toss everything together so the chicken is well-coated.
5. Assemble the Bowls:
Take a serving bowl and start with a scoop of rice at the bottom. Add the shredded lettuce, carrots, and cucumber on top for a fresh crunch.
6. Add the Chicken:
Next, carefully place the sauced chicken on top of the veggies. Make it as pretty as you’d like!
7. Drizzle More Sauce:
Drizzle the remaining bang bang sauce over everything. This adds even more flavor and a touch of flair.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top for an extra pop of color and crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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 thaw is overnight in the fridge, or you can place sealed chicken in a bowl of cold water for a quicker option. Pat it dry before cooking for the best results!
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bang bang sauce a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just give it a good stir before using it!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to customize your bowl with any vegetables you like! Bell peppers, avocado, or snap peas are great additions for added flavor and texture. The more colorful, the better!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the chicken and veggies in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or sauce if needed to keep everything moist.
