Introduction
Experience the delightful fusion of flavors with these Bang Bang Chicken Bowls. Tender, crispy chicken coated in a rich, spicy-sweet sauce is served over a bed of fluffy rice and fresh vegetables. This dish not only bursts with taste but is also visually stunning, making it perfect for any meal. Follow the simple steps to create a hearty and satisfying dish that everyone will love.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Chicken:
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
1 ¼ cups mayonnaise
⅔ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons Sriracha, or more to taste
For the Bowls:
4 cups prepared white rice, warmed
2 cups red cabbage, thinly sliced
1 large carrot, julienned
1 medium cucumber, halved and sliced
1 large avocado, thinly sliced
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Prepare to enjoy this tasty dish filled with vibrant colors and flavors. Whether for dinner or a gathered feast, these Bang Bang Chicken Bowls will surely impress your family and friends!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and Sriracha. Stir until smooth and set aside.
Season the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix vegetable oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss until evenly coated.
Cook the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches. Air fry at 400°F for 11-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Coat the Chicken with Sauce:
Transfer the cooked chicken to a large bowl. Add ½ cup of the prepared Bang Bang Sauce and toss to coat the chicken evenly.
Assemble the Bowls:
Divide the warmed rice among four bowls. Top each with equal portions of red cabbage, julienned carrot, sliced cucumber, and avocado. Add the sauced chicken on top. Drizzle additional Bang Bang Sauce over each bowl as desired. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and sesame seeds.
Serve:
Serve immediately and enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken Bowls.
Notes
Cooking in Batches:
If your air fryer has limited space, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking.
Adjusting Spice Level:
Feel free to adjust the Sriracha in the Bang Bang Sauce according to your preference for spiciness.
Fresh Ingredients:
Using fresh and ripe ingredients, particularly the avocado, will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Garnishing:
For added texture and flavor, consider garnishing with additional fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Bang Bang Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and Sriracha. Stir until the mixture is smooth and set aside for later use.
Seasoning the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix together vegetable oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Add the cubed chicken breasts and toss thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning.
Cooking the Chicken
Arrange the seasoned chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 11-12 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking time. Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Coating the Chicken with Sauce
Once the chicken is fully cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Add ½ cup of the prepared Bang Bang Sauce and toss to ensure the chicken pieces are well coated with the sauce.
Assembling the Bowls
Divide warmed white rice among four bowls. Layer each bowl with equal portions of red cabbage, julienned carrot, sliced cucumber, and avocado. Top with the sauced chicken and drizzle additional Bang Bang Sauce over each bowl as desired. Finally, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and sesame seeds.
FAQ
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even beef if preferred, adjusting cooking times as necessary.
What can I replace in the sauce if I want a healthier option?
You can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version of the Bang Bang Sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I make the Bang Bang Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Bang Bang Sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Is the recipe spicy?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted by controlling the amount of Sriracha added to the sauce.
Conclusion
The Bang Bang Chicken Bowls are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, perfect for a satisfying meal. The combination of crispy, seasoned chicken coated in a creamy, zesty sauce over a bed of rice and fresh vegetables creates a nourishing and vibrant dish. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, these bowls are sure to impress!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Shrimp Bowls
Replace chicken with shrimp, and toss it in the same spice mixture before cooking. Use a slightly hotter sauce to match the protein.
Vegetable Buddha Bowls
Create a vegetarian version by using grilled or roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and sweet potatoes as the main protein, served with the Bang Bang Sauce.
Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
Swap the Bang Bang Sauce with a homemade or store-bought teriyaki sauce. Serve with steamed broccoli and pineapple for a tropical twist.
Quinoa Salad Bowl
Instead of rice, use quinoa as a base. Add roasted chickpeas and a mix of cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese, drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette.
Korean BBQ Bowls
Use bulgogi-marinated beef or chicken as the protein and add kimchi, edamame, and a sesame dressing for a Korean-inspired dish.
