Introduction
Bang Bang Chicken Bowls are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that come together in a simple, yet satisfying dish. Featuring crispy chicken pieces coated in a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce, these bowls are loaded with fresh vegetables and served over fluffy jasmine rice. Perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep, this recipe will soon become a favorite in your household.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Chicken:
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon lime juice
For the Bowls:
4 cups cooked jasmine rice
2 cups shredded cabbage
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup snap peas
1 cup shredded carrots
½ cup sliced green onions
1 cup crispy chow mein noodles
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with sesame oil, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth. Divide the cooked jasmine rice among four serving bowls, and top each bowl with shredded cabbage, sliced red bell pepper, snap peas, shredded carrots, and cooked chicken. Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the chicken and vegetables, and garnish with sliced green onions and crispy chow mein noodles.
Serve immediately and enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken Bowls!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with sesame oil, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth.
Assemble the Bowls:
Divide the cooked jasmine rice among four serving bowls. Top each bowl with shredded cabbage, sliced red bell pepper, snap peas, shredded carrots, and cooked chicken. Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Garnish with sliced green onions and crispy chow mein noodles.
Serve:
Serve immediately and enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken Bowls.
Notes:
Adjust the spiciness of the Bang Bang sauce by adding more or less sriracha according to your taste preference. For a more colorful presentation, feel free to add other vegetables such as cucumbers or avocados. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the chicken before serving for the best taste and texture.
Cook techniques
Marinating Chicken
To ensure the chicken is flavorful, combine it with sesame oil, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Coating Chicken
Toss the chicken pieces in a mixture of cornstarch and seasonings to create a crispy texture when cooked. This also helps in sealing the juices inside the chicken.
Searing Chicken
Cooking the chicken in a hot skillet over medium-high heat allows for a nice golden-brown crust while keeping the inside juicy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve even cooking.
Whisking Sauce
For a creamy and well-blended Bang Bang Sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice vigorously until smooth. Adjust the spiciness to your preference.
Layering Bowls
When assembling the bowls, layer the ingredients starting with jasmine rice, followed by vegetables and chicken. This presentation enhances the appeal and allows for mixing when served.
Garnishing
Finish the bowls with sliced green onions and crispy chow mein noodles for added crunch and freshness, enhancing both flavor and texture.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breast for a juicier flavor, but adjust the cooking time as needed.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the Bang Bang sauce?
You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version of the sauce.
How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?
The spiciness can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the amount of sriracha you use according to your taste preference.
Can I pre-make the Bang Bang sauce?
Yes, the Bang Bang sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
What type of rice can I use instead of jasmine rice?
You can use any type of rice, including basmati, white rice, or brown rice, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Conclusion
This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl offers a delicious blend of flavors and textures, combining tender chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce and a colorful array of vegetables over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice. It’s a delightful meal that is not only satisfying but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this dish as a quick weeknight dinner or a fun meal for family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Peanut Chicken Bowls
Swap the Bang Bang sauce for a spicy peanut sauce made with peanut butter, soy sauce, and garlic, topping with crushed peanuts and cilantro.
Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
Marinade chicken in teriyaki sauce instead of sesame oil and serve with steamed broccoli and sesame seeds.
Coconut Curry Bowls
Replace the jasmine rice with coconut rice and use a coconut curry sauce instead of Bang Bang sauce, adding bell peppers and snow peas.
Grilled Chicken Caesar Bowls
Use grilled chicken and toss with Caesar dressing, romaine lettuce, and croutons, finished with parmesan cheese.
Honey Garlic Chicken Bowls
Coat the chicken with a honey garlic sauce and serve with stir-fried vegetables for a sweet and savory taste.
