The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is the perfect combination of crispy, creamy, spicy, and fresh—all in one satisfying bowl. Inspired by the popular Bang Bang sauce loved for its sweet heat, this recipe transforms simple chicken and rice into a restaurant-quality meal you can make at home in under 30 minutes.
With tender chicken coated in a light crispy crust, fluffy rice, crunchy vegetables, and a drizzle of irresistible Bang Bang sauce, this bowl is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s easy, customizable, and perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, or casual entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy weeknight dinner
- Beginner-friendly and no-fail
- Creamy, sweet, and spicy flavor combo
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Easily customizable with your favorite veggies
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
About the Ingredients
Chicken Breasts or Thighs
Boneless chicken cooks quickly and stays juicy. Thighs add extra richness, while breasts keep it lean.
All-Purpose Flour
Creates a light coating that helps the chicken crisp up beautifully in the skillet.
Olive or Vegetable Oil
Essential for achieving golden, pan-seared chicken.
Mayonnaise
The creamy base of Bang Bang sauce that balances heat and sweetness.
Sweet Chili Sauce
Adds signature sweetness and mild spice.
Sriracha
Provides adjustable heat—add more or less depending on your spice tolerance.
Honey
Rounds out the sauce with a subtle sweetness.
Rice Vinegar or Lime Juice
Adds brightness and balances the richness of the sauce.
Rice
White or brown rice works perfectly as the hearty base.
Fresh Vegetables
Carrots, cucumber, and cabbage add crunch, color, and freshness.
Tips & Tricks
- Cut chicken into evenly sized pieces for even cooking
- Pat chicken dry before coating for better crisping
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed
- Toss chicken in sauce right before serving for best texture
- Prep veggies ahead to save time
Pro Tips
- Use a nonstick or cast-iron skillet for maximum browning
- Warm the sauce slightly for easier drizzling
- Add a splash of water to the pan if chicken browns too fast
- Double the sauce—it’s great for dipping veggies
- Serve immediately for the crispiest chicken
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with flour, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken in a single layer and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and fully cooked. Remove from heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth.
- Taste and adjust spice level as desired.
- Divide cooked rice evenly among serving bowls.
- Layer with shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, and cabbage or lettuce.
- Top with crispy chicken pieces.
- Drizzle generously with Bang Bang sauce.
- Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro before serving.
Variations
- Air Fryer Version: Cook chicken at 400°F for 12–14 minutes
- Spicy Lover’s Bowl: Add extra sriracha or chili flakes
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice
- Shrimp Bang Bang Bowl: Swap chicken for shrimp
- Asian-Inspired Twist: Add edamame or pickled ginger
How to Store Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Store leftover chicken, rice, and vegetables separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep sauce in a sealed container.
Reheat chicken and rice gently in the microwave or skillet. Add sauce after reheating for best flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep when stored separately.
Is Bang Bang sauce very spicy?
It’s mildly spicy, but easily adjustable.
Can I bake the chicken instead?
Yes, bake at 425°F for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway.
What rice works best?
White rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice all work well.
Can I make it healthier?
Use Greek yogurt in place of mayo and serve over brown rice.
Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Ingredients
Method
- Toss chicken pieces with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth. Adjust heat to taste.
- Divide cooked rice among serving bowls.
- Top rice with carrots, cucumber, cabbage or lettuce, and crispy chicken.
- Drizzle generously with Bang Bang sauce and garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro before serving.
