Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a fresh and tasty dish that combines crispy chicken pieces coated in a creamy, spicy sauce with bright veggies and fluffy rice. The sauce has just the right kick of heat balanced by a touch of sweetness, making every bite exciting and flavorful. It’s a colorful bowl with crunchy cucumber, shredded carrots, and a sprinkle of green onions to keep things crisp and refreshing.
I love making this dish because it’s quick, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser. The chicken is perfectly crunchy and coated in that delicious bang bang sauce, which I usually make from scratch using mayo, sweet chili sauce, and some sriracha for heat. I find it’s best when you can prep the veggies ahead of time so dinner comes together in no time on busy nights.
For serving, I like to layer the chicken and veggies over warm jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter option. Adding a squeeze of lime and a handful of fresh cilantro on top really lifts all the flavors. This bowl is one of those meals that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, and I bet you’ll find yourself wanting to make it again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and flavorful when cooked. You can use chicken breasts if you want a leaner option, but be careful not to dry them out.
Bang Bang Sauce: The sauce is simple but packs a punch with mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. If you want a lighter sauce, swap mayo for Greek yogurt. Adjust the sriracha based on how spicy you like it.
Vegetables: Purple cabbage, shredded carrots, and cucumber add a fresh crunch. Feel free to substitute with other crunchy veggies like bell peppers or snap peas if you prefer something different.
Rice: Jasmine rice is perfect for its fragrance and texture, but you can use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
How Do You Get the Chicken Crispy and Flavorful?
Getting the chicken browned while keeping it juicy is key. Try these steps:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes so it soaks up the flavors.
- Heat your skillet or grill pan on medium-high before adding chicken—this helps create a nice sear.
- Don’t crowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. Crowding causes steaming, not browning.
- Turn chicken occasionally to get an even golden color on all sides.
This method gives you that delicious caramelized outside and juicy inside, perfect for coating with the bang bang sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Skillet or grill pan – I recommend a sturdy one that heats evenly so the chicken gets a good sear and stays juicy.
- Mixing bowls – for marinating the chicken and preparing the sauce; easy to clean and versatile.
- Measuring spoons and cups – helps keep the flavors balanced, especially with sauces and spices.
- Cutting board and knife – essential for chopping chicken, veggies, and garnishes quickly and safely.
- Grater or vegetable peeler – handy for shredding carrots or slicing cucumbers thinly for a crisp finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Protein swaps: Try cooked shrimp or tofu for a different protein that still pairs well with the bang bang sauce.
- Cheese: Add a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack on top for extra richness.
- Veggie twists: Mix in sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or radishes to customize the crunch and flavor.
- Extra spice: Stir in a dash of cayenne or more sriracha if you like it extra fiery.
Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 to 2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Veggies and Garnishes:
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, plus 15 minutes to marinate the chicken. In total, you’ll spend around 35 minutes from start to finish, perfect for a flavorful weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix the chicken pieces with minced garlic, ginger, soy sauce, honey, and vegetable oil. Stir well so all the chicken is coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Remove from heat when done.
3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the chicken is cooking, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the spiciness by adding more or less sriracha as you like.
4. Assemble Your Bowl:
Start by spooning warm jasmine rice into your bowls. Place the cooked chicken on one side, then arrange shredded purple cabbage, shredded carrots, and cucumber slices around it. Drizzle the bang bang sauce generously over the chicken and veggies.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Top with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro leaves if you like. Don’t forget to add a squeeze of fresh lime juice before digging in! Serve immediately and enjoy your colorful, tasty Bang Bang Chicken Bowl.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a quick stir before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken, rice, and veggies separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and rice gently on the stove or in the microwave before assembling your bowl again.
What Are Good Substitutes for Jasmine Rice?
If you prefer, you can use brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice as a base—each adds a different texture and nutritional profile but works well with the flavors of the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl.
