Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a flavor-packed meal that combines crispy chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy-spicy sauce over a bed of rice or noodles. It’s the perfect balance of crunch, spice, and satisfaction. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving dinner with flair, this bowl brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen.

A Brief History

The term “Bang Bang Chicken” originated from a traditional Chinese street food known for its chicken being tenderized with a mallet (or “bang bang” stick). However, the Americanized version popularized in restaurants and fast-food chains typically features crispy chicken tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce made from mayo, sweet chili sauce, and a dash of heat. It’s now a viral favorite for bowls, wraps, and salads.

Why You’ll Love It

• Irresistibly Flavorful: Creamy, spicy, tangy sauce that coats every bite.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, noodles, or salad for a complete meal.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Easy to pack and reheat.
• Restaurant Feel at Home: Feels fancy but simple to make.

Recipe (Serves 4)

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Oil for frying

The Bang Bang Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional)

For the Bowl:

• 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup shredded cabbage or slaw mix
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Toss chicken in cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
2. Heat oil in a pan and fry chicken until golden and cooked through. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth.
4. Toss crispy chicken in the bang bang sauce until coated.
5. Assemble bowls with rice as the base, then top with chicken, veggies, and avocado. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Tips & Variations

• Air Fryer Option: Use the air fryer at 400°F for 12-14 minutes for a healthier take.
• Make it low-carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice or mixed greens.
• Add crunch: Sprinkle with crushed peanuts or crispy wontons.
• Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a twist.

🍗 Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 bowls

Calories: 520

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• ½ cup cornstarch
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil for pan-frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha adjust for spice
• 1 tbsp honey or sugar optional for sweetness

For the Bowl Base:

• 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup diced cucumber or edamame
• Chopped green onions & sesame seeds for garnish

Method

 

Make the Sauce:

1. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey until smooth. Set aside.

Cook the Chicken:

1. Toss chicken pieces in cornstarch, season with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 7–8 minutes. Remove and toss in bang bang sauce.

Assemble Bowls:

1. Add a scoop of rice to each bowl, top with lettuce, carrots, cucumber, and sauced chicken. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is your go-to for an easy yet bold meal bursting with textures and flavors. With its spicy-sweet sauce, colorful toppings, and filling base, it’s a hit for lunch, dinner, or your next meal prep plan. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite at your table.