Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both delicious and easy to whip up, the Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl is a perfect choice! This dish has become one of my go-to favorites because it combines crispy fried chicken, a spicy and creamy sauce, and fresh veggies all in one satisfying bowl. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something quick or for family gatherings when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.

The best part? Everyone seems to love this recipe! It’s packed with flavor and can easily be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl will surely be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have dinner on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The combination of crispy chicken and tasty sauce makes it a favorite among both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the components ahead of time so you can assemble your bowls when it’s time to eat.
• Customizable: Feel free to add any of your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level in the bang bang sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful dish. You might already have many of these staples in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tbsp sriracha sauce

For Assembling

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• ½ cup sliced cucumbers
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Oil for frying

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it to fit different tastes or dietary preferences!

• Swap the protein: Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken for a vegetarian twist.
• Change up the grains: Serve over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different base.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, edamame, or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Adjust the heat: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the sriracha in the bang bang sauce.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and pepper. This step is important because it enhances the flavor of the chicken before it’s coated. Dredge each piece in flour, dip into beaten eggs, and then coat with panko breadcrumbs. This triple-layer process creates that irresistible crunch we all love!

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry those chicken pieces until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through—about 4–6 minutes per batch. Don’t rush this step; getting that crispy exterior is key! Once they’re done, drain them on paper towels if you like to absorb excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. This creamy sauce is what gives our dish its signature flavor! Adjust the sriracha based on how spicy you want it—feel free to taste as you go!

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

Now it’s time for assembly! In serving bowls, layer your fluffy cooked rice at the bottom. Next comes a generous helping of shredded lettuce, sliced cucumbers, and shredded carrots. Finally, top everything with those beautifully fried chicken pieces and drizzle generously with your homemade bang bang sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately while everything is warm and fresh. Enjoy this deliciously satisfying meal with family or friends—and don’t forget to take some pictures; you’ll want to remember this moment!

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl

Creating the perfect Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl is all about those little details that can elevate your dish. Here are some pro tips to ensure your meal is a hit!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken will enhance the flavors of your dish, making it more vibrant and delicious.

• Double fry for extra crispiness: Frying the chicken twice can give you an even crunchier texture. Just let the chicken rest for a few minutes between frying sessions!

• Customize the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha in your bang bang sauce according to your heat preference. This allows you to make the dish as spicy or mild as you like!

• Prep in advance: You can prepare all your ingredients ahead of time, including cooking the rice and chopping vegetables. This makes assembly quick and easy when you’re ready to serve.

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Adding crushed peanuts or sesame seeds on top adds extra flavor and a delightful crunch.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl

Serving your Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl in an appealing way helps enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas to present this delicious meal beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle some freshly chopped green onions over the top for a pop of color and a hint of onion flavor.
• Sesame seeds: A light dusting of toasted sesame seeds can add a nutty taste and elegant finish to your bowl.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only looks beautiful but also adds a nutritious element that complements the dish.

• Miso soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can be a comforting side that perfectly balances the flavors of your meal, providing warmth and umami.

• Edamame: These protein-packed soybeans are not only fun to eat but also add a nice pop of color and crunch alongside your rice bowl.

• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing can cleanse your palate and provide a crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the fried chicken.

With these serving tips and side suggestions, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience that everyone will love! Enjoy every bite of your homemade Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl is perfect for meal prep! You can make components ahead of time, making it easy to assemble delicious meals throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftover chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Store cooked rice separately in another airtight container for optimal freshness.
• Keep the bang bang sauce in a small jar or container in the fridge for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze the chicken, let it cool, then place it in a freezer bag or airtight container, removing as much air as possible.
• The chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Freeze the rice in portions; wrap tightly or use freezer-safe containers.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the chicken in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy again, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave the rice in a covered bowl with a splash of water for about 1-2 minutes until heated.
• If thawing frozen chicken, do so overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this tasty recipe!

Can I use a different protein for my Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even veggies to create your own twist on this dish.

How spicy is the Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl?

The spiciness level depends on how much sriracha you add. Adjust according to your taste preference for a milder or spicier kick!

What can I serve with my Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a refreshing side salad. You could also enjoy it with some crispy spring rolls!

Can I make the bang bang sauce without mayonnaise?

Yes! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or avocado for a creamy texture while keeping it dairy-free.

How long does it take to prepare the Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl?

From start to finish, this recipe takes just about 30 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making this Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl as I am! It’s not just delicious but also incredibly versatile and perfect for meal prep. Enjoy creating your own version of this delightful dish and share it with family and friends. Happy cooking!