Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a delightful, flavor-packed meal that brings a taste of Southern comfort straight to your kitchen. This dish features tender, crispy chicken tossed in a spicy-sweet sauce and served over fluffy jasmine rice. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you have a craving for something a bit special, this bowl is sure to hit the spot. It’s easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is not just a meal; it’s an experience—quick to prepare, family-approved, and oh-so-satisfying. It blends fresh veggies, tender chicken, and a zesty sauce, making for a colorful and nutritious dish that can even please picky eaters. Plus, it’s a wallet-friendly option, making it a great fit for busy families and last-minute dinner plans.
“Every bite is a burst of flavor! My kids ask for it every week!” — Happy Reader
Step-by-Step Overview
Making a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl might sound fancy, but it’s one of those heartwarming recipes that come together in a flash. You start by coating bite-sized chicken pieces in a flavorful cornstarch mix, fry them till golden, and then whip up a creamy and spicy mayonnaise sauce. Finally, it’s all stacked on a bed of jasmine rice with fresh greens for a delicious, balanced meal.
What You’ll Need
Gather these items for the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil for frying
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Feel free to substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp if you’re looking for a different protein option or a vegetarian twist!
Directions to Follow
- In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss the chicken pieces in the mixture until well coated.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth. Adjust the sriracha to your desired spice level.
- To assemble the bowls, start with a base of jasmine rice. Top with the cooked chicken, shredded lettuce, diced cucumber, shredded carrots, and green onions.
- Drizzle the spicy mayo sauce over the top and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is lovely on its own, but if you want to jazz it up, consider serving it alongside a light soup or a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing twist. You could also add some crunchy wonton strips for extra texture or a sprinkle of nuts for a nutty finish.
How to Store
If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s hard to resist!), let the bowl cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 3 days. For longer storage, it’s best to freeze the chicken separately from the rice to maintain quality. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Don’t skip the cornstarch coating! It gives the chicken that delightful crunch.
- You can adjust the spice level of the sauce by adding more or less sriracha based on your family’s preference.
- If frying feels like too much, you could bake the chicken at 400°F for about 20 minutes, tossing halfway through for even cooking.
Recipe Variations
Feel like mixing it up? Consider these variations: swap in quinoa instead of jasmine rice for a healthier grain option, or add some avocado slices for creaminess. You could also try a different sauce base, like a tangy yogurt dressing or even a peanut sauce for a fun twist that your family will love.
Common Questions
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cooking takes around 15-20 minutes, so you’re looking at a total of 30-35 minutes from start to finish.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just ensure that your cornstarch and sauces are certified gluten-free.
How do I store the leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, store cooked chicken separately from rice for best results.
With these easy steps, you can bring home the warmth of a comforting meal with a modern twist. Happy cooking!