Why Make This Recipe

Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with flavor. This dish brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy sauce that packs a punch, making it ideal for beginner cooks. The recipe is simple to follow and offers a perfect introduction to the art of cooking with fresh ingredients, creating a balanced meal that is both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, it’s customizable and can easily cater to your taste preferences, ensuring everyone in your family will enjoy it.

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. Cutting the chicken into smaller pieces allows it to cook quickly and evenly. Seasoning the chicken before cooking enhances its natural flavors. 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. Ensure that the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to prevent sticking. Chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. 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.
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. The sauce should be well-balanced with a creamy, spicy, and sweet flavor profile. 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. Don’t overcook the vegetables; they should remain slightly crisp to retain their texture and nutritional value. 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. Ensure that everything is well coated with the sauce for maximum flavor. 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

To serve your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, spoon the chicken and veggie mixture generously over the cooked rice. If you really want to impress, try garnishing with slices of green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of extra sriracha for those who enjoy added heat. This dish is perfect for dinner but can also be meal-prepped for lunch throughout the week.

How to Store

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to the mixture to prevent it from drying out.

Tips to Make

Use a variety of colorful vegetables to make the dish aesthetically pleasing and nutritious.
For an added crunch and flavor, consider topping with chopped peanuts or cashews.
If you want to add extra protein, try incorporating tofu or shrimp.

Variation

Feel free to switch up the protein by using cubed tofu for a vegetarian option or shrimp for a seafood twist. You can also substitute the vegetables based on what you have on hand, keeping in mind that the cooking times may vary.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work great! Just add them to the skillet while cooking the chicken and let them cook until heated through.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The Bang Bang sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using it to coat the chicken and veggies.

Is this recipe spicy?
The spiciness primarily comes from the sriracha. If you prefer a mild flavor, you can reduce the amount of sriracha or use a milder hot sauce to suit your taste.