Ah, the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl! I can just feel my mouth watering at the thought of this delicious dish. It always takes me back to those carefree summer days spent at my best friend’s backyard BBQ, where her mom would whip up this spicy and creamy chicken dish. The first bite was an explosion of flavor that had us all reaching for more. I love how it combines the juicy chicken with the crisp veggies, all drizzled in that legendary bang bang sauce. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together and still gives me butterflies of nostalgia.
Whenever I make a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, it feels like an invitation to share laughter and stories. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) make for an easy and delightful lunch the next day. So, let’s jump right into how to make this crowd-pleaser!
What’s in Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?
Chicken Breast: This is the star of the show! I like to use skinless, boneless chicken breasts for their lean protein. You can cube them for easy eating or slice them into strips if you prefer that style.
Bread Crumbs: For that delightful crunch! I recommend using panko breadcrumbs; they give a lighter and crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
Bang Bang Sauce: This sauce is a game changer! Combining mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a kick of sriracha creates a creamy, spicy goodness that brings everything together. I like to adjust the spice level based on who I’m serving; a dollop more sriracha is never a bad idea.
Rice or Quinoa: A perfect base for your bowl! Brown rice or quinoa adds a nutty flavor and a nice heartiness. Both are great sources of complex carbohydrates that keep you fueled throughout the day.
Fresh Vegetables: I love to use a mix of colorful veggies such as bell peppers, carrots, and cucumbers to add crunch and freshness. They also make the bowl look so vibrant and inviting!
Is Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish can be a well-rounded meal depending on how you prepare it.
Chicken: Lean protein is beneficial for muscle repair and keeps you full for longer. It’s a good source of vitamins and minerals too, like B vitamins and selenium.
Brown Rice or Quinoa: Whole grains are rich in fiber, which is excellent for digestion. They also provide sustained energy, which is especially helpful if you have an active day ahead.
Fresh Vegetables: Load up on those! They are low in calories and high in nutrients, making them a fantastic addition to any meal.
Just be mindful of the amount of sauce you use, as it can be high in calories due to the mayonnaise and sugar from the sweet chili sauce.
Ingredients List
– 1 lb chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
– 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
– 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 1 small cucumber, sliced
– 1 medium carrot, julienned
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Green onions (for garnish)
*Serves 4*
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
3. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the panko breadcrumbs until well-coated.
4. Arrange the breaded chicken on the baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway.
5. While the chicken bakes, prepare the Bang Bang sauce by mixing together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a small bowl. Adjust the heat to your liking.
6. Once the chicken is crispy, start assembling your bowls—begin with a scoop of brown rice or quinoa and top it with baked chicken, fresh vegetables, and drizzle with that irresistible Bang Bang sauce.
7. Garnish with sliced green onions for that extra flair!
8. Serve immediately and watch the smiles spread.
Serving Suggestions for Bang Bang Bliss
To kick things up a notch, feel free to add sliced avocado or a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve it with a side of crispy wonton chips for that extra crunch. You could also make a Bang Bang Chicken Wrap by tossing everything together in a tortilla! The possibilities are endless.
I hope you try out this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl! It’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen just like it is in mine. I can’t wait for you to experience the deliciousness – and if you do, please share your version with me! Happy cooking!
