Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl—a crave-worthy blend of tender chicken, crisp veggies, fluffy rice, and a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce that ties it all together. This bowl is every bit as bold and vibrant as it sounds: juicy bites of golden chicken, a rainbow of fresh vegetables, and that irresistible bang bang sauce drizzled over everything. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or looking to impress friends, this easy recipe delivers big, satisfying flavors in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is in its simplicity: every ingredient plays an important role, giving you the perfect balance of texture, color, and flavor. Gather these fresh essentials for a meal that pops off the plate and makes every bite memorable.

• Chicken breast: Go for boneless, skinless chicken breast—it cooks quickly, stays juicy, and absorbs flavor beautifully.
• Cooked rice: White, brown, or even cauliflower rice all work; it serves as the ultimate cozy base.
• Mixed veggies: Broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots bring both crunch and vibrant color to the bowl.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken to golden, delicious perfection.
• Salt and pepper: Never underestimate the magic of a good seasoning—it builds the foundation for all the other flavors.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy backbone of the iconic bang bang sauce.
• Sriracha: This spicy chili sauce brings the much-loved “bang”—add more for extra heat.
• Honey: A drizzle of sweetness balances out the spice and richness in the sauce.
• Garlic powder: Layers in a mellow, aromatic depth without overpowering the other flavors.
• Lime juice: A small squeeze brings freshness and brightens up the sauce.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start off strong by cooking your rice according to the package instructions—white, brown, or even cauliflower rice works here! If you have a rice cooker, this is its time to shine: you’ll get perfect results with minimal fuss. Once the rice is fluffy and hot, set it aside while you build the rest of your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the rice is steaming, turn your attention to the chicken. Cut it into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch chunks). These smaller pieces cook quickly and soak up more delicious sauce later. Sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper—that quick seasoning helps build layers of savory flavor right from the very first step.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, giving it a moment to get shimmering-hot. Add the seasoned chicken, making sure not to crowd the pan. Sauté, turning occasionally, until golden on all sides and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Chicken is ready when it’s no longer pink in the middle and registers 165°F on a meat thermometer. Perfect browning equals big flavor!

Step 4: Mix the Sauce

While the chicken is sizzling, stir together your sauce: whisk mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, garlic powder, and lime juice in a small bowl until smooth. Before you pour it over your bowl, do a quick taste—add more sriracha if you love heat, or extra honey for a sweeter profile. The combination of creamy, spicy, and tangy notes is what truly makes a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl so addictive!

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

Once your chicken is golden and perfectly cooked, toss in your chopped veggies right into the skillet. Stir and cook for about 2-3 minutes—the goal is just-tender vegetables that still have a bit of bite. Don’t let them go mushy! That crispness provides balance and makes the bowl pop with both color and freshness.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Pull the skillet off the heat and pour your bang bang sauce over the chicken and veggies. Stir everything well, so that each piece is hugged with creamy, spicy goodness. Spoon the saucy chicken and veggies generously over your waiting bed of rice. If you want even more vibrance, top with extra sriracha, sliced green onions, or colorful garnishes. Dig in right away for maximum flavor!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped green onions, a little extra sriracha swirl, or a handful of sesame seeds instantly elevates your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl. Consider cilantro for fresh herby notes, or even a squeeze of fresh lime for a zesty finish. The right garnish brightens the bowl and makes it as gorgeous as it is tasty.

Side Dishes

While a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a satisfying meal all on its own, it pairs beautifully with light, crunchy sides. Think cucumber salad, edamame, or a quick Asian slaw for added texture and brightness. If you’re hungry for more, some steamed dumplings or miso soup make great companions at the table.

Creative Ways to Present

Have fun with how you serve your bowls! Try layering the rice, veggies, and chicken in a clear glass bowl for a dramatic display of colors. Or make mini Bang Bang Chicken Bowls in appetizer glasses for a party platter that’s sure to wow. You can even wrap the filling in lettuce leaves or spoon into tortillas for a playful twist on the classic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, pop it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to preserve the crisp texture of the veggies, but it’ll still be delicious even after everything is mixed.

Freezing

To freeze, portion the cooked chicken and veggies into freezer-safe bags (skip the rice and sauce for best texture). Freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently—add freshly cooked rice and sauce just before serving for best flavor.

Reheating

Reheat your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to keep things from drying out. Stir well so the sauce is evenly distributed and everything is heated through. Top with fresh garnishes to bring back that just-made flair!

FAQs

What protein substitutes can I use for the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken for tofu, shrimp, or even thinly sliced beef—just adjust cooking times accordingly. The bang bang sauce pairs beautifully with just about any protein you love.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, and in fact, making the sauce a few hours or even a day ahead lets the flavors meld for an even tastier Bang Bang Chicken Bowl. Store it tightly covered in the fridge until you’re ready to use.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The base recipe has a gentle kick, but you’re totally in control! Add more sriracha if you’re craving extra heat, or dial it back (or add more honey) if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Certainly! Frozen mixed veggies work well for a quick Bang Bang Chicken Bowl. Just toss them in straight from the freezer during the veggie step and cook until hot and slightly tender.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce if you’d like an extra splash of umami, and check that the sriracha and any other seasonings are gluten-free. Everything else in the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is naturally gluten-free!

Final Thoughts

There’s something wildly satisfying about digging into a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl—every bite is bright, bold, and just a little bit addictive. If you’re ready for a simple weeknight dinner that delivers serious flavor (and makes amazing leftovers), give this recipe a try. You’ll soon have it on repeat!

Print