Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Dish

This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a flavorful, protein-packed dish combining tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a creamy spicy sauce over rice. It is a quick, versatile meal worthy of your weekly rotation.

I discovered this recipe when trying to recreate a takeout favorite at home and found it even better. My family loves the customizable spice level.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breast: Lean protein source; cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower): The perfect base to soak up the delicious sauce. Use brown rice for added fiber or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Mixed veggies (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots): Adds color, crunch, and nutrients. Choose fresh or frozen for convenience.
• Olive oil: For cooking the chicken and veggies; opt for extra virgin for the best flavor.
• Salt and pepper: To season and enhance the natural flavors.
• Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base of the sauce.
• Sriracha: Brings heat and depth to the sauce, adjust to your spice level.
• Honey: Balances the heat with a touch of sweetness.
• Garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory taste.
• Lime juice: Brings brightness and tang to the flavor profile.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Cook the Rice:

Cook your rice according to the package instructions, ensuring it’s perfectly fluffy. If using a rice cooker, measure carefully and let the machine do the work for consistent results.

Prepare the Chicken:

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance its natural flavor. Smaller pieces ensure faster, even cooking.

Cook the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces and sauté for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F for doneness.

Prepare the Sauce:

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, garlic powder, and lime juice. Taste and adjust the balance of flavors. More sriracha for spice, more honey for sweetness. The result should be a creamy, spicy, tangy sauce.

Cook the Vegetables:

Once the chicken is cooked, add the mixed veggies to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, just until slightly tender but still crisp. This maintains their texture and nutritional value.

Combine Everything:

Remove the skillet from heat. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and veggies, mixing thoroughly to coat everything evenly. Serve your chicken and veggie mix over a bed of rice. Garnish with extra sriracha or chopped green onions for added flavor if desired.

The sriracha is one of my favorite parts of this dish, as it adds vibrant heat. My family loves experimenting with different sauce ratios to find their favorite balance of heat and sweetness.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to revive the sauce’s consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a seafood or vegetarian version. Try quinoa or farro instead of rice for variety. Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the sauce for a lighter option.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad or a side of steamed dumplings for added flair. It also pairs well with sliced avocado or a drizzle of teriyaki for a twist.

This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a mouthwatering way to spice up your dinner routine. Simple, delicious, and endlessly adaptable, it is sure to become a favorite at your table.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even beef strips. Adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose for the best results.

→ How can I make the dish less spicy?

Reduce the amount of sriracha in the sauce or add more mayonnaise or honey to balance the heat. You can also omit the sriracha entirely if you prefer no spice.

→ What vegetables work best for this dish?

Broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots work great, but you can use snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms depending on your preferences or what you have on hand.

→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken?

Yes, pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken can save time. Simply heat it in the skillet with a bit of oil and proceed to toss it with the vegetables and sauce.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Store the cooked components separately for the best freshness and reheat them just before serving. Add extra sauce if reheating dries it out slightly.