why make this recipe

The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a fantastic choice for beginner cooks looking to create a delicious meal without much hassle. It combines tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a creamy, spicy sauce all served over rice. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also offers a wonderful explosion of flavors. Plus, it’s customizable—it’s easy to switch out ingredients based on what you have on hand.

how to make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower)
1 cup mixed veggies (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sriracha
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon lime juice

Directions:

Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions. Set it aside once ready. Using a rice cooker can simplify this step and ensure perfectly cooked rice. Beginner Note: Follow package instructions for perfect rice. Use a rice cooker for convenience and consistent results.
While the rice is cooking, let’s prepare the chicken. Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Beginner Note: Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and evenly. Season generously with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Beginner Note: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to prevent sticking and ensure even browning. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F.
While the chicken is cooking, mix together the sauce ingredients in a small bowl: mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, garlic powder, and lime juice. Taste it, and adjust the sriracha if you want it spicier or add more honey for sweetness. Beginner Note: Adjust the sauce to your taste preferences. Start with the recommended amounts and add more or less of each ingredient as needed.
Once the chicken is cooked, toss in your mixed veggies and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they’re just tender. Beginner Note: Don’t overcook the vegetables; they should remain slightly crisp to provide a pleasant texture and retain their nutrients.
Remove the skillet from heat, pour the sauce over the chicken and veggies, stirring to coat everything evenly. Serve your Bang Bang Chicken over a mound of rice and garnish with extra sriracha or chopped green onions if desired. Beginner Note: Ensure everything is well coated with the sauce for a flavorful and cohesive dish. Garnish with your favorite toppings for added flavor and visual appeal.

how to serve Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl warm, over a bed of rice. You can add extra sauce on top and sprinkle some chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a beautiful finish. It’s perfect for a casual family dinner or even meal prep for the week ahead!

how to store Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken Bowl in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

tips to make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Use fresh veggies for the best flavor and crunch.
Adjust the spice level in the sauce to suit your taste.
If you’re short on time, pre-cooked chicken can work for this recipe.

variation

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some crushed peanuts on top for an added crunch. You could also substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking results.

Q2: What kind of rice works best?
A2: You can use any type of rice you prefer—white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Q3: How can I make the dish spicier?
A3: You can increase the amount of sriracha in the sauce or add some chopped fresh chilies into the mix.