Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a delicious, quick, and versatile recipe that packs a flavor punch in every bite. If you’re looking for an easy and satisfying dish, this is it! Perfect for weeknight dinners or even for meal prep, this bowl combines tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a zesty sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing. I stumbled upon this recipe on one of those busy evenings when I needed something fast but still wanted to impress. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
Why you’ll love this dish
There are so many reasons to try the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl. For starters, it’s a breeze to make, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. This makes it an ideal choice for beginner cooks or anyone short on time. The combination of succulent chicken, crisp veggies, and a rich, creamy sauce is sure to satisfy both your hunger and your cravings for flavor. Plus, it’s customizable! Whether you prefer white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice, you can tailor this meal to your liking.
“I made this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl for dinner, and my family couldn’t stop raving about it! The flavors are incredible, and it’s so easy to prepare.” – Satisfied Cook
Preparing Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: A Flavor Explosion for Beginner Cooks
Let’s walk through the steps to create this tantalizing dish. You’ll start by cooking your rice, followed by sautéing the chicken, crafting the bang bang sauce, and finally, combining everything for the ultimate bowl. Don’t worry—each step is simple, and you’ll gain confidence as you cook!
What you’ll need
To whip up your own Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower)
- 1 cup mixed veggies (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Feel free to switch up the mixed veggies based on what you have on hand. Got some snap peas or zucchini? Throw them in!
Step-by-step instructions
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Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions. Set it aside once it’s ready. If you have a rice cooker, this step is even easier—just follow the instructions for perfectly fluffy rice!
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While your rice cooks, cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season generously with salt and pepper. The smaller pieces will cook faster and more evenly.
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. To ensure even cooking, check that the skillet is hot before adding the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to confirm that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
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While the chicken is cooking, mix together the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Combine mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, garlic powder, and lime juice. Taste it, adjusting the sriracha or honey according to your preference. The ideal sauce will be a balance of creamy, spicy, and sweet.
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Once the chicken is cooked, add the mixed veggies to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they’re just tender. Make sure not to overcook them; they should maintain a bit of crispness.
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Remove the skillet from heat and pour the sauce over the chicken and veggies, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Serve your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl over a generous serving of rice and garnish with extra sriracha or chopped green onions as desired.
Ensure everything is well coated with the sauce for maximum flavor. Enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Serve it in deep bowls for a hearty meal, or portion it out in meal prep containers for quick lunches throughout the week. You can also top it with sesame seeds or chopped cilantro for an added burst of freshness just before serving. If you’re feeling adventurous, pair it with a side of spring rolls or a light Asian salad to round out the meal.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To keep your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for meal prepping! When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat in the microwave until warmed through. If you have extra sauce, you can drizzle a bit on top to revitalize those flavors.
Helpful cooking tips
- If you’re new to cooking chicken, ensure the skillet is sufficiently preheated to avoid sticking and achieve that desirable golden color.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken is cooked perfectly without being dry.
- Experiment with the sauce—add some chopped fresh herbs or a dash of soy sauce for different flavor profiles.
Creative twists
Feel free to switch up the protein by using shrimp, tofu, or even beef instead of chicken. You can also customize the sauce by adding different spices or herbs. Want a brighter flavor? Consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of sesame oil to the mix!
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
This recipe can be made in about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and veggies and store them separately from the rice and sauce until you’re ready to serve. That way, everything tastes fresh!
Is it adjustable for dietary needs?
Yes! Swap the chicken for tofu or plant-based chicken for a vegetarian or vegan option. You can also use gluten-free mayonnaise if you have dietary restrictions.
If you’re seeking a quick and flavorful meal that even beginner cooks can master, give the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl a try! Perfectly balanced and satisfying, it makes for a delightful dining experience. Happy cooking!
Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 1 cup cooked rice White, brown, or cauliflower rice.
- 1 cup mixed veggies Broccoli, bell peppers, carrots. Feel free to switch based on availability.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing the chicken.
- to taste salt and pepper For seasoning the chicken.
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha Adjust for spice level.
- 1 tablespoon honey For sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lime juice For acidity.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook your rice according to the package instructions and set aside.
- Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix together the sauce ingredients: mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, garlic powder, and lime juice. Taste and adjust flavors as needed.
- Add the mixed veggies to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Remove from heat and pour the sauce over the chicken and veggies, stirring to coat.
- Serve over rice and garnish with extra sriracha or chopped green onions if desired.
