If you are craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that perfectly balances spicy, creamy, and fresh elements, this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe is going to become your new weeknight favorite. With tender pieces of chicken bathed in a zesty Sriracha-lime mayo sauce, paired with crisp bell peppers and cool cucumbers over a bed of fluffy rice, every bite bursts with texture and excitement. It’s simple enough to whip up on a busy evening but impressive enough to share with friends, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe lies in its straightforward, fresh ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the juicy chicken breast providing hearty protein, to the colorful bell peppers adding sweetness and crunch, every item helps build layers of flavor and texture that are impossible to resist.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb): The star protein, cut into bite-sized pieces for easy eating and quick cooking.
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced: Adds a punch of aromatic depth to the chicken and sauce.
- 1 cup white or brown rice: The comforting base that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- 1 cup assorted bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, green): For color, natural sweetness, and a satisfying crunch.
- 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced: Provides a refreshing contrast to the spicy sauce.
- 3 tbsp Sriracha sauce (adjust for spice level): Delivers that signature heat and tang that makes this dish stand out.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy, indulgent texture of the bang bang sauce.
- Juice of 1 lime: Brightens the entire dish with a splash of citrus freshness.
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish): Adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of green for visual appeal.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces; this helps them cook evenly and makes the dish perfect for spooning into bowls. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a splash of oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken pieces. Cook until they are golden brown on all sides and no longer pink inside, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. This step ensures the chicken stays juicy yet has a lovely sear for texture.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Bang Bang Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, and fresh lime juice. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the amount of Sriracha until the heat level suits your taste. This sauce is the hallmark of the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe—creamy, spicy, and slightly tangy all at once.
Step 4: Sauté the Bell Peppers
Using the same skillet (no need to dirty another dish), add the sliced bell peppers. Sauté them for about 3 to 4 minutes until they are just tender but still retain some crispness. Their natural sweetness perfectly balances the spice of the sauce.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour the bang bang sauce over the top. Stir well to ensure each piece is generously coated. Warm everything through for about 2 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 6: Assemble the Bowl
Serve the saucy chicken and bell peppers over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. Top with sliced cucumber for a fresh bite and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a final burst of flavor and color.
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes elevate this dish to the next level. I love topping the bowls with thinly sliced cucumbers for their cooling crunch and a scattering of chopped green onions to add a subtle sharpness. Sometimes, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or fresh cilantro takes it even further—feel free to customize!
Side Dishes
While the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with light, crisp sides like a simple green salad or steamed edamame enhances the experience. These sides add freshness and balance the richness of the creamy sauce beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe in hollowed-out bell peppers or over hearty lettuce leaves for a low-carb alternative. You can also turn it into a wrap using a large tortilla, perfect for on-the-go lunches or picnics.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover bang bang chicken keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the rice and fresh veggies separate if you want to maintain their texture, then reheat the chicken and sauce before serving.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance, the cooked chicken with sauce freezes well for up to 2 months. Freeze in individual portions for quick meals. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
When reheating, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid drying it out. You can microwave it covered, but stirring occasionally helps the sauce stay creamy and smooth.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, which works beautifully with the bang bang sauce. Just adjust cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply substitute the chicken with crispy tofu or roasted cauliflower. Both soak up the sauce well and provide a satisfying texture.
How spicy is the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe?
The spice level is customizable. The Sriracha sauce adds a moderate heat, but you can reduce it or increase it to taste, or even swap for a milder chili sauce if preferred.
What type of rice works best?
White jasmine rice or brown rice both make excellent bases. White rice offers softness and a neutral flavor, while brown rice adds nuttiness and a bit more chew for added texture.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! Making the bang bang sauce in advance saves time and actually allows the flavors to meld even better. Store it in the fridge in a sealed container for up to a week.
Final Thoughts
This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe is the perfect mix of tasty, colorful, and easy to make. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do sharing it because it really makes an ordinary weeknight dinner feel special and satisfying. Give it a try and watch it become a fast favorite in your meal rotation!
Print
Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
- Diet: Halal
Description
A flavorful and spicy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl featuring tender sautéed chicken, crisp bell peppers, and a tangy Sriracha lime mayo sauce served over a bed of fluffy rice. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a quick, satisfying weeknight meal with a kick of heat.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp cooking oil (for sautéing)
Sauce
- 3 tbsp Sriracha sauce (adjust for spice level)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- Juice of 1 lime
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
Vegetables and Garnish
- 1 cup assorted bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, green)
- 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Grain
- 1 cup white or brown rice (cooked according to package instructions)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season evenly with salt and pepper to ensure the chicken is flavorful throughout.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown and the juices run clear, approximately 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
- Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, lime juice, and minced garlic until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning or spice level if desired.
- Sauté the Bell Peppers: Using the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp, absorbing some of the leftover chicken flavors.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed peppers. Pour the prepared sauce over the top, stir well to coat everything evenly, and heat through for about 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Assemble the Bowl: Place a serving of cooked white or brown rice in each bowl, top with the saucy chicken and peppers mixture, and garnish with chopped green onions and thinly sliced cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
Notes
- For a healthier version, use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in the sauce.
- Adjust the amount of Sriracha to control the spice level according to your preference.
- Brown rice adds fiber and a nuttier flavor but requires longer cooking time; plan accordingly.
- To save time, prepare the rice in advance or use leftover rice.
- This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for meal prep.
