Hey there! If you’re looking for a dinner recipe that checks all the boxes—easy, delicious, and a bit spicy—my Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is just the ticket! I absolutely love whipping this up on busy weeknights because it comes together quickly and tastes so indulgent. Plus, it’s packed with flavor and just the right amount of zing. Trust me, you and your family are going to fall head over heels for it!
Nutritional Benefits
You might be surprised, but this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl isn’t just tasty; it has a few nutritional perks, too! Chicken is a great source of protein, which helps to keep you full and satisfied. The veggies provide essential vitamins and minerals, while the creamy sauce can be adapted with yogurt for a healthier twist. A little spice can even boost your metabolism—so you can enjoy your meal and feel good about it!
Fun Variations to Make
- Veggie Delight: Swap out the chicken for tofu or chickpeas to make it vegetarian-friendly.
- Whole Grain Boost: Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for added fiber.
- Extra Crunch: Add some crushed peanuts or sesame seeds on top for a delightful crunch.
- Spice Levels: If you love heat, consider throwing in some extra chili flakes or Sriracha into the sauce!
Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or rice of your choice)
- 1 cup mixed veggies (like bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions. I love using a rice cooker for this—so easy!
- While the rice is cooking, heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a bit of oil and toss in the chicken pieces. Cook until golden on both sides and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and soy sauce to create your Bang Bang sauce.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a minute. Then, chop it into bite-sized pieces and toss it in the Bang Bang sauce until it’s nicely coated.
- Layer the cooked rice onto bowls, add the chicken, and top it with your mixed veggies. Finally, sprinkle some chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top!
Valuable Tips
- For quicker prep, consider using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken—just toss it with the sauce, and you’re set!
- If you want to meal prep, store the chicken and sauce separately from the rice and veggies to maintain freshness.
- Feel free to adjust the spiciness based on your preference. The recipe can be milder or spicier just by tweaking the amount of Sriracha!
Equipment Needed
Here’s a handy list of tools to make this recipe super straightforward:
- A non-stick skillet for cooking the chicken
- A mixing bowl for whisking the sauce
- A rice cooker or pot for cooking the rice
- A knife and cutting board for chopping ingredients
- Bowls for serving
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! You can prep the chicken and sauce in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
- What can I substitute for mayonnaise? Greek yogurt works well for a healthier twist, or you could use a vegan mayo for a dairy-free option!
- Can I use frozen veggies? Absolutely! Just thaw them before adding them to the dish, or toss them in frozen for a quick steam.
- How can I make it gluten-free? Opt for gluten-free soy sauce, or use coconut aminos. Just make sure any other sauces you use are also gluten-free!
- What can I add for extra flavor? Consider adding garlic minced or ginger for a lovely extra kick in flavor!
Did you try making my Bang Bang Chicken Bowl? I’d love to hear how much you enjoyed it! Make sure to follow me on Pinterest where I share all kinds of tasty recipes that’ll bring fun to your weeknight dinners!
