Pin it
Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a bright and satisfying meal you can whip up in almost no time even if you are new to cooking. Tender chicken bites get tossed together with a rainbow of crisp vegetables and blanketed in a creamy spicy-sweet bang bang sauce that ties it all together. This has quickly become a favorite at my house on busy weeknights when the takeout urge hits but I want something homemade and fresh.
My family loves anything with this bold sauce and everyone gets excited for dinner whenever they smell it cooking. I remember making this bowl the first time to use up leftovers and now it has turned into a top request by my kids especially on cold rainy evenings.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breast: ensures tender juicy bites that cook fast and easily so you are not standing over the stove forever
- Cooked rice: a neutral base that soaks up the bang bang sauce so use whatever you like whether it is classic white brown or even cauliflower rice for a lighter touch
- Mixed veggies: think broccoli bell peppers carrots for lots of crunch color and nutrients plus they make the bowl more filling opt for fresh or frozen just make sure they are bite-sized so they sauté quickly
- Olive oil: helps the chicken stay succulent and adds a subtle flavor choose good quality for best results
- Salt and pepper: essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of your chicken and veggies always taste and adjust as you go
- Mayonnaise: is the rich creamy backbone of the sauce choose real mayo for the best texture
- Sriracha: brings balanced heat and tang so taste first and add more if you like spice
- Honey: gives a mellow sweetness that offsets the spicy sriracha and brightens the flavor look for pure honey with a smooth texture
- Garlic powder: gives gentle savory depth use a fresh jar for the strongest flavor
- Lime juice: adds a fresh tangy note that lifts the sauce and keeps it vibrant go for freshly squeezed if possible
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Rice:
- Prepare your chosen rice by following the directions on the package until fluffy and tender. If using a rice cooker let it do the work for consistently perfect grains while you prep everything else.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken breast into even bite-sized chunks. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper so each piece is seasoned well and set aside while you wait for the skillet to heat.
- Sauté the Chicken:
- Pour olive oil into a hot large skillet over medium-high heat. Scatter the chicken pieces into the pan so they are not crowded. Let them sizzle and cook undisturbed for a couple minutes before turning. Keep turning and sautéing for about six to eight minutes until they turn golden all over and are cooked through. Juices should run clear and the inside should be white with no pink.
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a bowl stir together all of the sauce ingredients mayonnaise sriracha honey garlic powder and lime juice until fully smooth. Taste a tiny spoonful. If you want more heat add a little more sriracha. For sweetness drizzle in extra honey. The sauce should taste creamy zesty with just a hint of sweetness.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Once the chicken is finished toss in your chopped vegetables straight into the skillet. Stir everything and sauté for just two or three minutes until the veggies look bright and slightly tender but still have a good crisp snap. This keeps them colorful and nutritious.
- Combine and Serve:
- Take the skillet off the heat and pour the homemade bang bang sauce right over the chicken and veggies. Stir gently but well so every piece is coated and glistening. To build your bowls layer fluffy rice then top with loads of chicken and veggies making sure to use up all that saucy goodness. Finish with chopped green onion or an extra squeeze of sriracha for flair.
Pin it
The magic comes from the bang bang sauce and I always keep extra in the fridge for sandwiches and salads too. The sriracha and honey combo wakes up the taste buds while the creamy mayo softens the spice just enough. One of my fondest memories is watching my kids sneak extra bites straight from the pan shouting best sauce ever with their mouths still full.
Storage Tips
Cool leftovers quickly and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep everything moist. This also makes a fantastic grab and go lunch for busy workdays.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the chicken for shrimp tofu or even thinly sliced beef depending on your mood or what you have on hand. If you are dairy free try using a vegan mayo for the sauce. Any quick cooking vegetables will work snap peas mushrooms or baby corn are all tasty options.
Serving Suggestions
These bowls are great just as they are but you can top them with toasted sesame seeds crushed peanuts or a squeeze of extra lime. For a fancier presentation serve everything in lettuce cups or wrap it all up in a warm tortilla for a creative spin.
Pin it
Cultural Context
Bang bang sauce is inspired by the spicy creamy dressings you find in some American Asian fusion cuisine originally riffing on a classic Sichuan style chicken dish but toned down to suit broader tastes. Here it turns a simple skillet meal into something crave-worthy that works for both kids and adults.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier texture. Cook until fully done for the best flavor.
- → Is there a way to make this dish less spicy?
Reduce or omit the sriracha in the sauce to lower the heat level without sacrificing flavor.
- → What vegetables work best in this bowl?
Broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots are recommended. Snap peas or zucchini are also tasty additions.
- → Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days for convenience.
- → Are there low-carb alternatives to regular rice?
Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb substitute and pairs well with the bold Bang Bang flavors.
- → How do I know when the chicken is perfectly cooked?
Chicken is done when it's golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy.