Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

If you’re craving a bold, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal, the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is exactly what you need. Tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy, spicy sauce come together over a bed of fluffy rice for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even casual entertaining, this recipe is both versatile and crowd-pleasing.

This bowl balances sweet, savory, and spicy notes in every bite, with fresh vegetables adding color and crunch while the sauce ties everything together. It’s comfort food with an Asian-inspired twist that’s ready in just 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in just 30 minutes
• Packed with protein and nutrient-rich vegetables
• Creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor combination
• Perfect for meal prep or family dinners
• Customizable toppings and vegetables for variety

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Tender protein for the bowl
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning
• 2 tablespoons oil (olive or vegetable) – For sautéing and browning

For the Rice Base

• 2 cups cooked rice – Brown rice recommended for extra fiber

For the Vegetables

• 2 cups broccoli florets – Crisp and nutrient-packed (substitute snap peas if desired)
• 1 red bell pepper – Sweet, colorful crunch
• 1 carrot – Adds sweetness and texture (can use shredded carrots)
• 4 green onions, sliced – Garnish with mild onion flavor

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt – Creamy base for the sauce
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce – Sweet and mildly spicy
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha – Adds heat (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Savory umami (low-sodium recommended)

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds – Adds a toasty crunch
• Optional: crushed peanuts for extra texture

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add broccoli florets, red bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until vegetables are tender yet still crisp.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and soy sauce until smooth. Adjust spiciness to taste.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Return cooked chicken to the skillet with vegetables. Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 6: Prepare the Rice

Layer cooked rice in serving bowls.

Step 7: Assemble the Bowls

Spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture generously over the rice. Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds (and crushed peanuts if using). Serve while hot.

Tips for Success

• Adjust Sriracha for milder or spicier bowls
• Use fresh vegetables for the best crunch and color
• Don’t overcook the broccoli to retain texture and nutrients
• Make the sauce ahead for extra convenience

Equipment Needed

• Skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Serving bowls

Recipe Variations

• Protein swap – Use shrimp, tofu, or chicken thighs for different flavors
• Low-carb option – Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles
• Extra crunch – Add roasted cashews or chopped peanuts
• Vegetable variation – Include snap peas, baby corn, or bell pepper mix
• Sauce variation – Replace mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy version

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl fresh and hot. Pair it with a light Asian-inspired salad or steamed greens for a complete, balanced meal. Perfect for meal prep lunches or casual family dinners.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, store chicken, vegetables, and rice separately. Combine and add sauce just before serving.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely. Just reheat gently in the skillet with the sauce and vegetables.

How spicy is this dish?
It’s mildly spicy by default. Adjust the Sriracha to taste for more or less heat.

Can I substitute the vegetables?
Yes, snap peas, bell peppers, or zucchini work beautifully.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, swap chicken with tofu or tempeh and follow the same cooking method.

Final Thoughts

The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that brings together spicy, sweet, and savory flavors in every bite. With tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy sauce over a bed of rice, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a flavorful dinner that the whole family will love.

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