Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: A Fiery, Flavor-Packed Meal

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If you’re looking for a bold, spicy, and satisfying dish, the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is the perfect choice. This vibrant meal combines crispy, seasoned chicken tossed in a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce and is served over a bed of fluffy rice with crunchy vegetables, fresh avocado, and sesame seeds for an irresistible contrast of flavors and textures.

Inspired by the popular Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, this bowl version makes it even easier to enjoy all the flavors in a hearty and complete meal. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a hungry family, or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish delivers restaurant-quality taste in the comfort of your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. A Perfect Balance of Sweet, Spicy, and Creamy

The star of this dish is the Bang Bang sauce—a creamy, slightly sweet, and fiery sauce that coats every piece of chicken beautifully. Made with mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and Sriracha, it creates the perfect harmony between heat and sweetness, making each bite irresistible.

2. Quick and Easy to Make

This dish comes together in under 40 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. The air fryer method ensures quick, crispy chicken, while the skillet option offers a stovetop alternative that’s just as delicious.

3. Customizable for Any Diet

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily adaptable it is. You can:

  • Swap proteins (try shrimp, tofu, or beef)
  • Use different grains (quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice)
  • Adjust the spice level to your preference

Whether you’re looking for a low-carb, gluten-free, or dairy-free option, this recipe can be easily modified to fit your needs.

4. A Meal Prep Dream

The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is ideal for meal prep. The chicken, sauce, and rice can be made in advance and stored separately, allowing you to quickly assemble a fresh and flavorful meal whenever you need it.

Ingredients

For the Bang Bang Sauce:
  • 1 ¼ cups mayonnaise
  • ⅔ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 teaspoons Sriracha (or more for extra heat)
For the Chicken:
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Bowl Assembly:
  • 4 cups cooked white rice (or your preferred rice)
  • 2 cups thinly sliced red cabbage
  • 1 large carrot, julienned
  • 1 medium cucumber, halved and sliced
  • 1 large avocado, thinly sliced
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
    • In a medium bowl, mix mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and Sriracha until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Season and Cook the Chicken:
    • In a large bowl, combine the oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
    • Toss the cubed chicken in the seasoning mix until fully coated.
  3. Air Fryer Method:
    • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
    • Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
    • Cook for 11-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  4. Skillet Method:
    • Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and fully cooked.
  5. Coat the Chicken:
    • Place the cooked chicken in a large bowl and toss it with ½ cup of the Bang Bang sauce.
  6. Assemble the Bowls:
    • Divide 1 cup of rice into each bowl.
    • Layer with ½ cup red cabbage, ¼ cup carrots, and ¼ cup cucumbers.
    • Top with sliced avocado and Bang Bang chicken.
    • Drizzle additional Bang Bang sauce over the top.
    • Garnish with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds.
  7. Serve and Enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 1276 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 105g
  • Protein: 58g
  • Fat: 69g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 145mg
  • Sodium: 1600mg
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Sugar: 20g

The Secret Behind the Bang Bang Sauce

What Makes Bang Bang Sauce So Good?

The Bang Bang sauce is the heart of this dish, delivering a creamy, slightly tangy, and spicy flavor that ties everything together. Here’s what makes it special:

  • Mayonnaise: Creates a rich, creamy base that coats the chicken beautifully.
  • Thai Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds a perfect balance of sweetness and mild heat.
  • Honey: Enhances the sweetness and smooths out the spice.
  • Sriracha: Brings the heat—adjust to your taste preference!

The sauce is so versatile that it can be used for dipping, drizzling, or marinating, making it a great addition to other dishes like Bang Bang Shrimp or roasted vegetables.

How to Customize Your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

1. Switch Up the Protein

While chicken is the classic choice, you can easily swap it for:

  • Shrimp: A seafood version with a similar crispy texture.
  • Tofu: A great vegetarian alternative that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
  • Beef: Sliced sirloin or flank steak can add a heartier element to the dish.

2. Experiment with Grains

Though white rice is traditional, you can use:

  • Brown rice for a fiber-rich alternative.
  • Quinoa for added protein and texture.
  • Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

3. Load Up on Veggies

Fresh vegetables add crunch, color, and nutrients to this dish. Some great options include:

  • Bell peppers for sweetness.
  • Steamed broccoli for fiber and heartiness.
  • Red onions for a sharp contrast to the creamy sauce.
  • Spinach for a boost of vitamins.

4. Adjust the Heat Level

If you love extra spice, consider:

  • Adding more Sriracha or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Sprinkling red pepper flakes over the final dish.
  • Mixing in cayenne pepper to the seasoning blend for the chicken.

For a milder version, reduce or omit the Sriracha and increase the honey in the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! The Bang Bang sauce, chicken, and rice can all be prepped in advance. Here’s how to store them:

  • Bang Bang Sauce: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Cooked Chicken: Keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.
  • Rice: Store in a separate container for up to 5 days and reheat before serving.

When ready to eat, simply reheat the chicken and rice, assemble the bowl, and drizzle with the Bang Bang sauce.

2. What’s the Best Way to Reheat This Dish?

To keep the chicken crispy, follow these reheating tips:

  • Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to regain crispiness.
  • Oven: Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes.
  • Stovetop: Sauté in a dry pan over medium heat for 5 minutes.
  • Microwave: Works for quick reheating, but the chicken may lose some crispiness.

3. Can I Use a Different Cooking Method for the Chicken?

Yes! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can cook the chicken:

  • On the Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet for 8-10 minutes over medium-high heat until golden brown.
  • In the Oven: Bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

4. Is Bang Bang Sauce Gluten-Free?

Most of the ingredients in the Bang Bang sauce are naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on your chili sauce and Sriracha to ensure they contain no hidden gluten.

5. Can I Make a Healthier Version of This Recipe?

Yes! To lighten up the dish:

  • Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the sauce.
  • Swap white rice for cauliflower rice to reduce carbs.
  • Use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner protein.

6. What Can I Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Bowls?

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with:

  • Spring rolls for an Asian-inspired appetizer.
  • Cucumber salad for a refreshing side.
  • Miso soup for a warm and savory contrast.

Conclusion: A Must-Try Dish for Spice Lovers

The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a dish that delivers bold flavors, satisfying textures, and endless customization options. With its crispy chicken, creamy and spicy Bang Bang sauce, and fresh vegetables, it’s the kind of meal that keeps you coming back for more.

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal, offering a balance of indulgence and freshness. The best part? You can customize it to fit your dietary needs and preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Whether you’re a fan of spicy food, creamy sauces, or hearty rice bowls, this dish checks all the boxes. So why wait? Try it today and enjoy an explosion of flavor in every bite!

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Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: A Fiery, Flavor-Packed Meal


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  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

A bold, spicy, and satisfying dish featuring crispy, seasoned chicken tossed in a creamy Bang Bang sauce, served over fluffy rice with fresh vegetables and garnished with avocado and sesame seeds. Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner!


Ingredients

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

  • 1 ¼ cups mayonnaise
  • ⅔ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 teaspoons Sriracha (or more for extra heat)

For the Chicken:

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Bowl Assembly:

  • 4 cups cooked white rice (or your preferred rice)
  • 2 cups thinly sliced red cabbage
  • 1 large carrot, julienned
  • 1 medium cucumber, halved and sliced
  • 1 large avocado, thinly sliced
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: In a medium bowl, mix mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and Sriracha until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Season and Cook the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss the cubed chicken until fully coated.

    Air Fryer Method:

    • Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
    • Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the basket.
    • Cook for 11-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

    Skillet Method:

    • Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Cook the chicken for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and fully cooked.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken in a large bowl and toss with ½ cup of the Bang Bang sauce.
  4. Assemble the Bowls: Divide 1 cup of rice into each bowl. Layer with red cabbage, carrots, and cucumbers. Top with sliced avocado and Bang Bang chicken.
  5. Drizzle additional Bang Bang sauce over the top.
  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds.
  7. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or beef for variety.
  • Use brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice as a base alternative.
  • Increase Sriracha for extra heat, or reduce for a milder version.
  • Store leftovers separately and reheat in an air fryer, oven, or stovetop for best results.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Fryer / Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

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