When I think of comfort food, the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl always comes to mind.
It’s a dish that brings together crispy chicken, fluffy jasmine rice, and fresh veggies, all drizzled with a spicy sauce that dances on your taste buds.
Whether you’re racing against the clock on a busy weeknight or looking to impress friends at a casual gathering, this recipe is your go-to.
It’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect solution for any occasion.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a game-changer for your dinner routine.
It’s not just about the incredible taste; it’s also about how quickly you can whip it up.
In just 35 minutes, you can serve a meal that feels gourmet yet is simple enough for any home cook.
Plus, the combination of crispy chicken and zesty sauce will have everyone coming back for seconds.
It’s a dish that truly satisfies!
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Creating a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is all about using fresh, quality ingredients that come together in a delightful harmony.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Cooked jasmine rice: This fragrant rice serves as the perfect base, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, they’re the star of the show, providing protein and heartiness.
All-purpose flour: This helps create a crispy coating that locks in moisture and flavor.
Garlic powder: A must-have for that savory kick, enhancing the overall taste of the chicken.
Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and a beautiful color to the dish.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the flavors of all the ingredients.
Buttermilk: This tenderizes the chicken and adds a rich flavor, making it extra juicy.
Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs create an irresistible crunch that you’ll love.
Mayonnaise: A creamy base for the sauce, adding richness and depth.
Sweet chili sauce: This brings a delightful sweetness and a hint of heat to the mix.
Sriracha: Adjust this spicy sauce to your liking for that extra kick!
Shredded lettuce: Adds a fresh crunch and balances the richness of the chicken.
Diced cucumbers and tomatoes: These veggies provide a refreshing contrast and vibrant color.
Sliced green onions: A sprinkle of these adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
Sesame seeds (optional): These can be sprinkled on top for a nutty flavor and extra texture.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing.
Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! You can swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different twist.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Making a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a straightforward process that yields delicious results.
Let’s dive into the steps that will have you enjoying this dish in no time!
Step 1: Prepare the Coating
Start by grabbing a large bowl.
Combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Mix them well until they’re evenly blended.
This coating is what gives the chicken that crispy, flavorful crunch.
Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne if you like a little extra heat!
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Now, take your bite-sized chicken pieces and dip each one into the buttermilk.
Make sure they’re fully coated.
Then, roll the chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
This double-dipping method ensures a thick, crispy crust that’s hard to resist.
Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort!
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom.
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken in batches.
Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps keep the chicken crispy.
Once done, remove the chicken and let it drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha.
Mix until smooth and creamy.
This sauce is the star of the show, adding that signature bang to your bowl.
Adjust the sriracha to your taste; if you like it spicy, go for it!
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
Now it’s time to bring everything together.
Start with a generous base of jasmine rice in each bowl.
Top it with the crispy chicken, followed by shredded lettuce, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and green onions.
Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the top and sprinkle with sesame seeds if you’re using them.
Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite!
Tips for Success
Prep all your ingredients before you start cooking to streamline the process.
Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is hot enough for frying; it should be around 350°F.
Don’t skip the paper towels after frying; they help keep the chicken crispy.
Feel free to customize your veggies based on what you have on hand.
For a lighter version, try baking the chicken instead of frying.
Equipment Needed
Large bowl: For mixing the coating. A mixing bowl works just as well.
Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for frying. You can also use a deep fryer if you have one.
Meat thermometer: To check the oil temperature. A regular kitchen thermometer can do the job too.
Paper towels: For draining excess oil. A wire rack can be a great alternative.
Variations
Spicy Bang Bang Tofu: Swap out the chicken for firm tofu. Press and cube it, then follow the same coating and frying steps for a delicious vegetarian option.
Bang Bang Shrimp: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist. Just adjust the cooking time, as shrimp cooks faster!
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to keep it celiac-friendly.
Extra Veggie Boost: Add more colorful veggies like bell peppers, shredded carrots, or snap peas for added nutrition and crunch.
Low-Carb Version: Serve the crispy chicken over cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice for a lighter, low-carb meal.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: Pair your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl with a light cucumber and tomato salad for a refreshing contrast.
Drink Pairing: A cold Asian lager or iced green tea complements the flavors beautifully.
Presentation: Serve in colorful bowls to enhance the visual appeal and make the meal feel special.
FAQs about Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Can I make the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the chicken in the oven for that crispy texture and assemble your bowl fresh.
Is the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl spicy?
The spice level is adjustable! The sriracha in the sauce adds heat, but you can reduce or increase it based on your preference. If you’re serving kids or those who prefer milder flavors, feel free to tone it down.
What can I substitute for jasmine rice?
If jasmine rice isn’t your thing, you can use brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Each will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that crispy coating we all love.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, but keep in mind that the chicken may lose some of its crispiness when reheated.
Final Thoughts
Creating a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing joy to your table.
The crispy chicken, vibrant veggies, and that irresistible sauce come together to create a meal that feels special, even on a busy night.
Every bite is a celebration of flavors, making it a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
Plus, the ease of preparation means you can enjoy this culinary adventure without spending hours in the kitchen.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into this delicious experience. You won’t regret it!
A delicious and crispy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl served over jasmine rice with fresh vegetables and a spicy sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups cooked jasmine rice
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup diced cucumbers
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk, then coat with the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Roll the coated chicken pieces in panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom. Once hot, add the chicken in batches, cooking for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth.
To assemble the bowls, start with a base of jasmine rice, then top with crispy chicken, shredded lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and green onions. Drizzle with the bang bang sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds if using.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For a healthier option, bake the chicken instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 400°F, place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Add additional toppings like avocado, corn, or shredded carrots for more flavor and texture.
