Name: Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown); 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 carrot, julienned; 3 green onions, chopped; ½ cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce (adjust for spice level); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons oil (for cooking); Sesame seeds (for garnishing)

Jump to Recipe

Bang Bang Chicken Bowls are a delightful explosion of flavors that seamlessly combine tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a spicy, creamy sauce. This dish is not only pleasing to the palate but is incredibly simple to put together, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. As someone who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, I can confidently say that this recipe has become a favorite of mine, beloved by both adults and kids alike!

What Makes This Recipe Special

The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl stands out for its incredible flavor and versatility. What’s not to love about a dish that is quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and utterly satisfying? It’s the perfect way to turn a handful of everyday ingredients into a gourmet meal in no time at all. You can whip this up in just about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those hectic weeknights or when you need to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

“This dish is a weekly favorite in our home! The sauce is the perfect blend of sweet and spicy, and it brings everything together beautifully.” – A Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Creating a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is straightforward and enjoyable. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect: you’ll start by cooking tender chicken pieces, sautéing vibrant vegetables, and combining them with a delicious homemade sauce. Lastly, you will layer everything over a bed of fluffy rice – simple and satisfying!

Gather Your Ingredients

For this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
1 cup broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 carrot, julienned
3 green onions, chopped
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce (adjust for spice level)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons oil (for cooking)
Sesame seeds (for garnishing)

Feel free to customize with veggies you have on hand or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Preparation Steps

Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and seasoning them with salt and pepper.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken pieces until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the broccoli, red bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until they are tender yet still crisp.
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and soy sauce until well combined.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the sauce over everything and stir to coat evenly.
In serving bowls, place a layer of cooked rice as the base.
Spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture over the rice.
Garnish each bowl with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Serve immediately and enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl while it’s fresh and hot!

Best Way to Serve

The beauty of the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl lies in its flexibility. Serve it as a hearty main dish or pair it with a side of crispy spring rolls or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal. For an added touch, consider drizzling extra Sriracha or chili flakes on top for those who like an extra kick!

Storage Tips

To keep your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl fresh, store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They should last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If you wish to freeze it, consider freezing the chicken and sauce separately from the rice and vegetables to maintain texture.

Pro Chef Tips

To save time, use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken, which can be thrown together with the veggies and sauce for a speedy meal.
For a healthier option, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to maintain creaminess while adding protein.
Don’t skimp on the green onions and sesame seeds – they not only enhance the dish visually but also add wonderful flavor and crunch!

Creative Twists

Looking to mix things up? Try adding different proteins like shrimp or tofu for a new twist. You can also play with the sauce by incorporating peanut sauce for a richer flavor or adding lime juice for a refreshing zest. Experiment with various vegetables based on what’s in season for a colorful presentation!

Common Questions

What is the prep time for the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?

Prep time is around 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15-20 minutes, making a total of about 30-35 minutes for a full meal.

Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to rotate in your favorite vegetables, such as snap peas, zucchini, or bok choy, to suit your taste.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in the sauce, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Bang Bang Chicken Bowls are excellent for meal prep. Just store the rice, chicken, and vegetables separately until you’re ready to eat to keep everything fresh.

With its well-balanced flavors and easy preparation, the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is sure to become a beloved staple in your household. Enjoy creating this dish and savor the many compliments it’s bound to gather around your table!