Bang Bang Chicken Bowl – Easy & Flavorful
Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a delicious, easy-to-make meal packed with crispy chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy, spicy sauce. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or whenever you crave something bold and satisfying.
Bang Bang Chicken originated as a popular Chinese street food dish, traditionally made with shredded chicken and a spicy peanut sauce. Over time, it has evolved into a fusion-style dish, commonly featuring crispy chicken drizzled with a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce. This version brings together crispy chicken bites, rice, and fresh veggies to create a well-balanced and flavorful meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep time.
- Deliciously Crispy Chicken – Crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside.
- Irresistible Bang Bang Sauce – A creamy, spicy, slightly sweet sauce that ties the dish together.
- Customizable – Swap out ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Cuisines: Asian Fusion
Servings: 4
Estimated Cost: $10-$15
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowls
- Skillet or air fryer
- Whisk
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Cooking oil (for frying or spraying in an air fryer)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Bowls:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Dredge each piece in flour, dip into beaten eggs, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide cooked rice among serving bowls. Top with crispy chicken, shredded lettuce, carrots, cucumbers, and green onions.
- Drizzle with Sauce: Generously drizzle Bang Bang sauce over the chicken and garnish with cilantro and lime wedges.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
Tips for Success
- Double-coat for extra crunch: For an even crispier texture, dip the chicken back into the egg and breadcrumbs a second time.
- Adjust the spice level: Add more sriracha for extra heat or reduce it for a milder flavor.
- Use an air fryer for a healthier option: Skip deep frying and achieve a crispy texture with less oil.
- Prep ahead: Cook the chicken and chop the veggies in advance for quick assembly later.
Common Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will be juicier and more flavorful.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the chicken separately from the sauce and veggies in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour substitutes.
What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken Bowls?
Serve with extra rice, a side of edamame, or a fresh Asian-style salad.
Bang Bang Chicken Bowls – Easy & Flavorful
Equipment
- Large mixing bowls
- Skillet or air fryer
- Whisk
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs beaten
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Cooking oil for frying or spraying in an air fryer
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha adjust to spice preference
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Bowls
- 2 cups cooked rice white, brown, or cauliflower rice
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup diced cucumber
- ¼ cup sliced green onions
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Dredge each piece in flour, dip into beaten eggs, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide cooked rice among serving bowls. Top with crispy chicken, shredded lettuce, carrots, cucumbers, and green onions.
- Drizzle with Sauce: Generously drizzle Bang Bang sauce over the chicken and garnish with cilantro and lime wedges.
Notes
- Double-coat for extra crunch: For an even crispier texture, dip the chicken back into the egg and breadcrumbs a second time.
- Adjust the spice level: Add more sriracha for extra heat or reduce it for a milder flavor.
- Use an air fryer for a healthier option: Skip deep frying and achieve a crispy texture with less oil.
- Prep ahead: Cook the chicken and chop the veggies in advance for quick assembly later.
Enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken Bowls! Happy cooking!
