Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe

If you’ve never tried a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl before, you’re in for an absolute treat! Imagine tender, crispy pieces of chicken tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce, all nestled atop a fluffy bed of rice and surrounded by a rainbow of fresh veggies. This crave-worthy bowl packs bold flavors and a fun combination of textures—the crunchy panko coating on the chicken, the creamy sauce, the crisp veggies—every bite is pure joy. Whether you’re looking to liven up your weeknight routine or wow friends at a casual dinner, the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is the perfect answer for those of us who want a meal that’s big on flavor and low on hassle.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about this recipe is that the ingredients are easy to find, but each one offers a unique punch—whether it’s for flavor, that signature crunch, or vibrant color. Here’s everything you’ll need to assemble your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, along with a little note on why it’s crucial:

• Chicken breast: Tender, juicy chicken is the star—boneless, skinless is best for easy cutting and coating.
• Buttermilk: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk ensures every bite stays extra tender and absorbs the seasonings.
• Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style crumbs make the chicken ultra-crispy once it’s baked or fried.
• All-purpose flour: Helps the panko stick, creating that essential golden crust.
• Egg: Acts like “glue” so the coating adheres beautifully.
• Sriracha: Brings just the right amount of heat to the signature “Bang Bang” sauce (adjust to your spice preference).
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base that pulls the sauce together and balances the spice.
• Sweet chili sauce: Adds that sweet, tangy kick that makes the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl so addictive.
• Cooked jasmine or white rice: The perfect base for soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Shredded carrots: For a fresh crunch and pop of color.
• Diced cucumber: Refreshing and cooling next to all that spice and richness.
• Sliced green onions: Adds a mild oniony finish and extra texture.
• Black sesame seeds: For a little nutty crunch and dramatic finish (optional, but recommended!).
• Fresh cilantro: Lightens up the whole bowl and brings a hit of herbal freshness (optional for garnish).

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by slicing your chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, then toss them in a bowl with the buttermilk. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight if you’re planning ahead). This step tenderizes the chicken and helps infuse every bite with flavor. It’s worth it, trust me!

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Set up a simple breading station with three shallow bowls: one for flour, one with a beaten egg, and another with panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it with panko, pressing lightly so the crumbs really stick. Arrange the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

You can choose to bake or air fry the chicken for a lighter option, or fry in oil for that extra crunch. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden and the chicken is cooked through. If you’re frying, heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and cook in batches until crisp and cooked through—about 3 minutes per side. Let rest briefly on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Whip Up the Bang Bang Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Taste and adjust the heat or sweetness to your preference. This creamy, zingy sauce is the heart of any Bang Bang Chicken Bowl—don’t be shy to make extra for drizzling later!

Step 5: Assemble the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Scoop cooked rice into deep bowls, then add a colorful array of shredded carrots, diced cucumber, and sliced green onions around the perimeter. Pile the crispy chicken pieces right in the center and generously spoon the Bang Bang sauce over top. Sprinkle with black sesame seeds and fresh cilantro for a restaurant-worthy finish.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Garnishes

A Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is all about those finishing touches. Sprinkle chopped green onions, black sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro across the top for bursts of flavor and color. A wedge of lime or a light drizzle of extra sauce can elevate the dish even further if you’re feeling fancy.

Side Dishes

While the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is hearty enough to stand alone, it pairs beautifully with a crisp Asian slaw, edamame, or even a simple miso soup. If you want more veggies, toss in steamed broccoli or snap peas for added color and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the bowl! You can serve Bang Bang Chicken over salad greens for a lighter meal, wrap it all in a tortilla for a spicy chicken wrap, or make it a fun party platter by serving all the components separately for a build-your-own bowl experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store each component—chicken, rice, veggies, and sauce—in separate airtight containers. This helps maintain their individual textures and keeps everything tasting fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing

The chicken pieces freeze beautifully once cooked and cooled. Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for about 2 months. Rice can also be frozen, though fresh veggies are best added right before serving.

Reheating

To bring back the chicken’s crispiness, pop it in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer until heated through—about 10 minutes. Rice can be gently microwaved with a splash of water, and sauce stirred well before drizzling over your reheated Bang Bang Chicken Bowl.

FAQs

Can I make a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl gluten free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and swap regular flour for a gluten-free blend. Double-check that your sauces are certified gluten free as well—it’s an easy switch and still totally delicious.

What protein alternatives can I use?

If you’d like a twist, swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower florets. All of these options work brilliantly with the Bang Bang sauce and give you a vegetarian or pescatarian-friendly version.

How do I adjust the spice level?

You have full control! Dial back the sriracha for milder heat, or add more to turn up the fire. The sweet chili sauce balances out the spice beautifully, so taste as you go until you hit your perfect sweet-heat spot.

Can I prep the chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can bread the chicken pieces and refrigerate them for up to one day before cooking. This makes it a breeze to assemble Bang Bang Chicken Bowls quickly when you need them.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No problem—make your own by mixing 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar, then let it sit for 5 minutes. It’ll work just as well to tenderize the chicken.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just spicing up your weekly dinner rotation, the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I hope this recipe brings as much joy and flavor to your table as it has to mine—give it a try and let your kitchen turn into your new favorite restaurant!

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