Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the aroma of sizzling chicken fills the kitchen, I can’t help but smile. It’s time for a culinary delight that’s as quick to prepare as it is satisfying—welcome to the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl! In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal featuring crispy chicken, vibrant veggies, and a creamy spicy sauce, all served over fluffy jasmine rice. This recipe isn’t just about speed; it’s also incredibly customizable, allowing you to adjust the spice levels or swap in crispy tofu for a vegetarian option. Imagine bringing this vibrant dish to your dinner table—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that won’t have you slaving away all night. Ready to bring some flair to your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into making this delicious Chicken Bowl together! Why You’ll Crave This Chicken Bowl? Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights. Endless Customization: Feel free to adapt the spice levels, swap chicken for crispy tofu or roasted chickpeas, and choose between jasmine and brown rice to suit your preferences. Flavor Explosion: The zesty combination of spicy mayo and sweet chili sauce elevates every bite, ensuring satisfaction for spicy food lovers and newcomers alike. Fresh Crunch: Enjoy a medley of vibrant, fresh veggies that bring texture and color, making each bowl a feast for the eyes and palate. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a family dinner or gathering with friends, this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl impresses everyone at the table, making it your new go-to recipe! Want to try more delicious chicken recipes? Check out our Cheesy Chicken Spinach or indulge in the savory goodness of Grilled Chicken Skewers! Chicken Bowl Ingredients • For a delicious Chicken Bowl experience, gather these ingredients! For the Base Cooked Jasmine Rice – This fluffy rice is the ideal foundation; swap for brown rice to boost fiber. For the Protein Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Cut into bite-sized pieces for a satisfying crunch; substitute with crispy tofu or roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. For the Coating Cornstarch – This ingredient guarantees a crispy texture; it’s essential for the perfect crunch! Salt – A pinch enhances the flavor of every component. Black Pepper – Adds a gentle warmth; feel free to adjust based on your spice preference. Garlic Powder – Offers a savory punch that complements the chicken beautifully. Paprika – Not just for color, but its subtle sweetness adds depth to the dish. For Cooking Vegetable Oil – Needed for frying to achieve that crispy golden chicken you crave. For the Spicy Sauce Mayonnaise – The creamy base for your sauce; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Sweet Chili Sauce – A touch of sweetness that balances the heat beautifully. Sriracha – Adjust the amount to accommodate your spice tolerance; it’s all about your preference! For the Fresh Toppings Shredded Lettuce – Adds a fresh crunch and color to your chicken bowl. Diced Cucumber – Brings a refreshing element to balance the flavors. Shredded Carrots – Adds sweetness and vibrancy; a delightful contrast in texture. Chopped Green Onions – A sprinkle of these adds a mild oniony flavor; they’re perfect for finishing touches! Sesame Seeds – These optional seeds give your dish an extra layer of texture and a hint of nuttiness. With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a delightful Chicken Bowl that can be tailored to your taste buds! Enjoy the cooking adventure! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Step 1: Prepare the Chicken In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cut the boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and coat them in the mixture, ensuring a thorough coverage that will give your chicken an irresistible crunch in the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl. Step 2: Heat the Oil In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom and heat over medium-high, allowing it to shimmer, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This hot oil is key to achieving that golden-brown, crispy texture on your chicken, making the center of your Chicken Bowl truly satisfying. Step 3: Fry the Chicken Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer and let them fry for 5-7 minutes. Use tongs to turn the chicken halfway through cooking until each piece is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once done, set the chicken aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Step 4: Make the Spicy Sauce In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth, adjusting the sriracha to your desired spicy level. This creamy sauce is what brings the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl to life with a zesty kick that complements the crispy chicken perfectly. Step 5: Assemble the Bowl Begin layering your Chicken Bowl by placing a generous portion of cooked jasmine rice at the base. Then, top the rice with the crispy chicken, followed by a colorful mix of shredded lettuce, diced cucumber, shredded carrots, and chopped green onions. Step 6: Drizzle and Garnish Finally, drizzle the spicy mayo sauce generously over the top of your assembled Bang Bang Chicken Bowl. Sprinkle sesame seeds if desired for an added texture and visual appeal. Serve immediately, and savor every bite of this vibrant and flavor-packed meal! Chicken Bowl Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with your Chicken Bowl—it’s all about making it your own! Dairy-Free: Swap mayonnaise with avocado or silken tofu blended until creamy for a plant-based twist. Vegetarian Delight: Substitute crispy chicken with roasted chickpeas or pan-fried tofu for a satisfying vegetarian option. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce in the spicy sauce for those avoiding gluten. Extra Crunch: Toss in some crispy fried onions on top for an irresistible, crunchy garnish that adds flavor and texture. Heat Boost: Mix in some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes to the spicy sauce for those who crave extra heat. Nutrient Punch: Add some steamed broccoli or bell peppers to your bowl for additional nutrition and color. Rice Variety: Experiment with quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice to shake things up and add more nutrients. Savory Twist: Incorporate a splash of sesame oil in your sauce for an extra layer of flavor that complements the crunchiness of the chicken. Whether you stick to the classic flavors or try something new like Mexican Rotisserie Chicken, you’ll find this Chicken Bowl to be a versatile delight that never gets boring! Make Ahead Options These Bang Bang Chicken Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the chicken and spicy sauce up to 3 days in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain the chicken’s crispy texture, fry it fresh just before serving. For the sauce, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, and keep it sealed until you’re ready to drizzle it over your bowl. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet for a few minutes to achieve that golden crunch, then assemble your bowl with jasmine rice and fresh veggies for a delicious and quick dinner! What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Bowl? Enhance your dining experience with delicious pairings that beautifully complement the vibrant flavors of this dish. Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy bites add a delightful contrast and are perfect for dipping in leftover spicy sauce. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic provide a fresh, crunchy side that balances the richness of the chicken bowl. Sweet and Spicy Asian Slaw: Vibrant cabbage and carrot mix tossed in a sweet dressing offers a refreshing zing to every bite. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup delivers umami flavors that nicely complement the spicy chicken and fresh veggies. Chilled Soba Noodles: These refreshing noodles can be dressed with sesame oil and scallions for a lovely side that cools the palate. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with ripe mango and pineapple adds a sweet tropical twist, making the meal feel festive. Crisp White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully, providing acidity that cuts through the dish’s richness. Coconut Milk Rice Pudding: For a sweet finish, this creamy pudding offers a soothing, tropical end to your meal, harmonizing with the dish’s spicy notes. Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing beverage helps to cool down the spice, enhancing the overall dining experience. Chocolate Mochi: These chewy, sweet treats are a delightful dessert addition that perfectly contrasts the vibrant flavors of your chicken bowl. How to Store and Freeze Chicken Bowl Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Bowl components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken crispy and the veggies fresh. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can last up to 3 months. Reheating: To reheat, thaw the frozen chicken overnight in the fridge, then warm it up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Reassemble your Chicken Bowl fresh with prepped veggies and sauce. Tip: For even better flavor, wait to add the spicy sauce until just before serving, ensuring that every bite is indulgently creamy and delicious! Expert Tips for the Chicken Bowl Crispy Perfection: Ensure oil is hot enough before adding chicken; this helps achieve that irresistible crunch. Season Well: Don’t skimp on the seasoning in your cornstarch mixture; it’s vital for flavor in your Chicken Bowl. Adjust Spice: Taste your spicy sauce as you mix; you can easily adjust the sriracha to keep it as spicy or mild as you prefer. Fresh Veggies Matter: Choose the freshest vegetables for toppings; crisp lettuce and vibrant carrots enhance both texture and taste. Store Separately: If you have leftovers, keep the sauce separate; it maintains the creaminess and freshness when stored. Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for my Chicken Bowl? Absolutely! For the freshest ingredients, choose vibrant, crisp vegetables. Look for lettuce with bright green leaves and no browning. Cucumbers should be firm without any soft spots, and carrots should be bright orange and crunchy. For the chicken, select boneless skinless breasts that are pale pink without any dark spots. If you’re going for tofu, opt for firm tofu that feels dense but not overly soft. How should I store leftover Chicken Bowl components? I often recommend storing leftover Chicken Bowl components separately to maintain their textures. Place the crispy chicken in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to eat it within the day, or refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Store fresh veggies like lettuce and carrots in a separate container with a paper towel to absorb moisture, which helps them stay crisp. Can I freeze the Chicken Bowl, and how? Yes, you can! To freeze, start by cooking your chicken and letting it cool completely. Then, lay the chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, it can last up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet until warmed through, adding fresh veggies and sauce just before serving. What if my chicken doesn’t get crispy? Ah, the quest for crispiness! If your chicken isn’t as crispy as you’d like, it might be one of the following: not enough oil was used, or the oil wasn’t hot enough before adding the chicken. Make sure your oil shimmers before frying—this is key! Additionally, ensure the chicken pieces are not overcrowded in the pan, as too much moisture can trap steam and result in soggy chicken. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for this Chicken Bowl? Very! If you’re preparing the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl for someone with allergies, it’s best to double-check the labels on sauces and condiments. The spicy mayo can be made gluten-free by substituting the mayo with a gluten-free or homemade version. For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for crispy tofu or roasted chickpeas, and for a lighter alternative, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the spicy sauce. Always check for individual dietary needs for a delightful experience! How long do leftovers stay good after making the Chicken Bowl? Leftover components of your Chicken Bowl can last up to 3 days in the fridge if stored properly. Be sure to keep the spicy sauce separate for optimal freshness. If you refrigerate the chicken and veggies in airtight containers, they should maintain their quality. Just remember to reheat the chicken thoroughly before reassembling your bowl for a delightful, satisfying meal. Irresistibly Spicy Chicken Bowl: Quick Flavor in 30 Minutes Enjoy a quick and customizable Chicken Bowl featuring crispy chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy spicy sauce, all in under 30 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 560 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base2 cups Cooked Jasmine Rice Can swap for brown riceFor the Protein1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Cut into bite-sized piecesFor the Coating1/2 cup Cornstarch Essential for crispiness1 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall flavor1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust based on spice preference1 teaspoon Garlic Powder1 teaspoon Paprika Adds sweetness and colorFor Cooking1/4 cup Vegetable Oil For fryingFor the Spicy Sauce1/2 cup Mayonnaise Can substitute with Greek yogurt1/4 cup Sweet Chili Sauce Balances the heat1 tablespoon Sriracha Adjust for spice levelFor the Fresh Toppings2 cups Shredded Lettuce1 cup Diced Cucumber1 cup Shredded Carrots1/4 cup Chopped Green Onions2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds Optional for garnish Equipment large mixing bowlskillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, whisk together cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cut the boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and coat them in the mixture.In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom and heat over medium-high for about 2-3 minutes until shimmering.Add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer and fry for 5-7 minutes, turning halfway until golden brown and cooked through.In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth, adjusting the sriracha for spice preference.Layer the Chicken Bowl starting with cooked jasmine rice, then top with crispy chicken and fresh veggies.Drizzle the spicy mayo sauce over the top and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 560kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftover components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. For freezing, freeze the cooked chicken in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
