If you’re craving an exciting, flavorful meal that combines crispy chicken, creamy spicy sauce, and fresh vegetables all in one bowl, the Bang Bang Chicken Bowls Recipe is your new go-to. This dish brings together tender, crunchy chicken coated in a mouthwatering bang bang sauce, nestled atop fluffy rice with colorful veggies that add just the right crunch and brightness. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe hits all the right notes for comfort and zest in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that play vital roles in delivering the perfect mix of textures and flavors. From crispy panko breadcrumbs that give the chicken its irresistible crunch to the tangy, sweet, and spicy bang bang sauce, each component contributes to a balanced and delightful bowl.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: These tender pieces are the heart of the bowl, perfect for a juicy bite every time.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Light and airy, these breadcrumbs create an amazing crispy coating.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Essential for the first step in breading, helping the egg stick.
- 2 eggs, beaten: Acts as the glue between flour and panko for that perfect crunch.
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice: The comforting base that soaks up every bit of sauce.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Adds a fresh, sweet crunch and a pop of color to the bowl.
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced: Brings a cool, crisp contrast to the spicy chicken.
- 2 green onions, sliced: A sharp, fresh garnish for added brightness.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base for the signature bang bang sauce.
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce: Gives just the right amount of sweetness and mild heat.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha: Packs a spicy punch—adjust to your heat preference.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances the spiciness with a touch of natural sweetness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
- Oil for frying: Needed for that crispy, golden finish on the chicken.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Bowls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
Start by combining mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey in a bowl. This creamy, spicy sauce is what makes the dish truly special—mix it thoroughly and set it aside so the flavors can meld while you prepare the chicken.
Step 2: Season and Bread the Chicken
Season your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper for basic but essential flavor. Then, set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Dip each piece into flour first, then egg, and finally coat with the panko. This layering ensures a crispy, golden crust once fried.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken to Perfection
Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes until they are crispy and cooked through, turning occasionally. Drain on paper towels to keep them crisp and not greasy.
Step 4: Coat Chicken with Sauce and Assemble Bowls
After frying, toss the chicken pieces in your prepared bang bang sauce until they are generously coated. Then, scoop cooked rice into each bowl, top with the sauced chicken, and add shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and green onions for freshness and crunch.
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Bowls Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions are a classic garnish here, adding a mild bite and lovely color. For an extra layer of texture, consider sprinkling some toasted sesame seeds or chopped cilantro. Adding a wedge of lime can give a refreshing, tangy twist that brightens the whole dish.
Side Dishes
Although the bowls are a complete meal on their own, serving them alongside a simple Asian cucumber salad or miso soup can enhance the dining experience. These sides bring a lightness and additional freshness that balance the rich, crispy chicken beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress at a gathering, serve your Bang Bang Chicken Bowls Recipe in colorful, shallow bowls that show off the vibrant layers. Layering veggies and chicken in neat piles rather than mixing can create an Instagram-worthy presentation. Alternatively, wrap the chicken and veggies in rice paper sheets for an interactive, wrap-style approach everyone will enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken and sauce separately from the rice and vegetables in airtight containers. This helps keep the chicken crispy and the veggies fresh. Refrigerated leftovers are best eaten within 2 to 3 days for optimal taste and texture.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your Bang Bang Chicken Bowls Recipe components, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce together in a sealed container. Rice tends to freeze well but may lose some texture. Vegetables like carrots and cucumber are better fresh and should be added after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in an oven or air fryer to preserve its crispiness instead of microwaving. Warm the rice separately in the microwave or on the stove. Add fresh veggies and green onions after reheating for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Bang Bang Chicken Bowls Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually fantastic for this recipe because they stay juicy and flavorful even after frying, giving you a richer taste experience.
Is there a vegetarian version of Bang Bang Chicken Bowls Recipe?
Yes, you can swap the chicken for crispy tofu or even cauliflower florets to create a delicious vegetarian alternative that pairs perfectly with the bang bang sauce.
How spicy is the bang bang sauce, and can I adjust it?
The sauce has a moderate kick thanks to the sriracha, but it’s easily adjustable. Simply reduce or omit the sriracha for milder heat or add extra for more spice.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
While frying gives the crispiest result, baking the breaded chicken pieces at 425°F (220°C) on a greased sheet for about 20 minutes is a healthier option that still tastes delicious.
What type of rice works best for Bang Bang Chicken Bowls Recipe?
Both white and brown rice work beautifully, so it depends on your preference. Brown rice offers nuttier flavor and extra fiber, while white rice provides a softer, more neutral base that soaks up the sauce perfectly.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about the perfect crunch of bang bang chicken paired with a spicy-sweet sauce, fresh veggies, and warm rice all in one bowl. The Bang Bang Chicken Bowls Recipe is easy to make, utterly delicious, and sure to become a family favorite. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Bang Bang Chicken Bowls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American Fusion
Description
Bang Bang Chicken Bowls are a vibrant, flavorful dish featuring crispy fried chicken coated in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice with fresh shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and green onions. This easy-to-make recipe offers a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and crunchy textures that make for a satisfying and colorful meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
For Serving
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey. Mix well until smooth and set aside for later.
- Season the Chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper evenly to enhance flavor.
- Set Up Breading Stations: Arrange three bowls – one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs – ready for breading the chicken.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken first into the flour to coat lightly, then into the beaten eggs to moisten, and finally into the panko breadcrumbs to cover thoroughly.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the breaded chicken pieces in batches for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked inside. Drain the fried chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Coat with Sauce: Toss the hot fried chicken pieces in the prepared bang bang sauce until each piece is well coated with the creamy, spicy sauce.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice into serving bowls and top with the coated bang bang chicken, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and sliced green onions for freshness and crunch.
- Serve: Serve immediately while the chicken is crispy and the flavors are fresh. Enjoy your flavorful Bang Bang Chicken Bowls!
Notes
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier meat, or chicken breasts for leaner dish.
- Adjust sriracha quantity based on your preferred spice level.
- For a crispier texture, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying.
- Drain fried chicken well on paper towels to avoid sogginess.
- Leftover bang bang sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Brown rice can be used instead of white rice for a healthier option.
