Name: Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce; 1-2 tsp sriracha; 1 tsp honey; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 cups cooked white or brown rice; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced; 1 cup red cabbage, shredded; 2 green onions, sliced; Sesame seeds; Fresh cilantro

Jump to Recipe

Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is the perfect balance of bold flavor, creamy heat, and fresh crunch. If you love quick dinners that feel restaurant-worthy, this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl delivers every time. Tender chicken coated in a creamy Spicy Sauce, served over rice with crisp vegetables, creates a satisfying meal that works for busy weeknights or organized Meal Prep. This colorful bowl blends comforting textures with vibrant toppings, making it a dependable go-to when you crave something hearty yet fresh.

Story

The first time I made a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, I wanted something simple but packed with flavor. I had leftover rice, fresh vegetables in the fridge, and chicken ready to cook. Instead of ordering takeout, I decided to build my own Bang Bang Chicken Bowl from scratch. The result surprised me. The creamy sauce, with its gentle heat and slight sweetness, coated the chicken perfectly.

Since then, this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl has become a regular dinner rotation favorite. It offers everything I look for in a homemade Chicken Rice Bowl—protein, texture, freshness, and balance. Because the ingredients stay straightforward, even beginner cooks can prepare this confidently. Plus, the bold sauce brings that irresistible Asian Fusion flavor profile that feels both comforting and exciting.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

For the Bang Bang Sauce

½ cup mayonnaise
3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
1–2 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 tsp honey (optional)
1 clove garlic, minced

For the Bowl

2 cups cooked white or brown rice
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
1 cup red cabbage, shredded
2 green onions, sliced
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Start by cooking your rice if you have not prepared it already. Fluff it with a fork and keep it warm. Next, cut the chicken into even bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Then season the chicken with salt and black pepper, tossing to coat all sides.

While the chicken rests briefly, shred the carrots, slice the cucumber thinly, and shred the red cabbage. Slice the green onions and set everything aside for easy assembly later. Finally, mince the garlic for the sauce.

Cooking Instructions

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces turn golden brown and cook through completely.

Meanwhile, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the spice level if needed.

Once the chicken finishes cooking, reduce the heat slightly. Drizzle half of the Bang Bang sauce over the chicken and toss until every piece is coated evenly. Remove from heat.

To assemble, divide warm rice into four bowls. Top each bowl with sauced chicken, shredded carrots, cucumber, red cabbage, and green onions. Drizzle the remaining sauce over the top and finish with sesame seeds and cilantro if desired.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not overcrowd the skillet. When chicken pieces sit too close together, they steam instead of brown. Instead, cook in batches if necessary. Also, avoid adding sauce too early while cooking. The mayonnaise base can separate under high heat, so always toss the sauce with the chicken after it finishes cooking. Finally, slice vegetables evenly to maintain a balanced texture in every bite.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in a spoonful of the sauce for 15 minutes before cooking. You can also add a splash of lime juice to the finished bowl for brightness. If you enjoy more texture, include lightly Roasted Veggies such as broccoli or bell peppers alongside the fresh toppings. A sprinkle of extra sesame seeds adds subtle nuttiness and crunch.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl immediately while the chicken stays warm and the vegetables remain crisp. For gatherings, arrange toppings in separate bowls and allow everyone to build their own. This makes the meal interactive and keeps ingredients fresh. You can also serve it with extra sauce on the side for those who prefer more heat.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat the chicken and rice gently in the microwave before assembling. Keep vegetables cold and fresh for best texture. If preparing for Meal Prep, portion rice and chicken together, then pack vegetables separately to maintain crispness.

Conclusion

This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl brings bold flavor, creamy heat, and refreshing crunch into one balanced meal. Because the ingredients remain simple and the method stays straightforward, you can prepare it confidently any night of the week. Whether you want a satisfying dinner or a reliable lunch option, this bowl delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice, chicken, sauce, and vegetables in advance. Store them separately and assemble just before serving. This method keeps textures fresh and prevents sogginess.

Can I substitute the protein?

Absolutely. Shrimp works beautifully in this recipe and cooks quickly. Tofu also makes a strong vegetarian option when pressed and pan-seared until golden.

How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?

The heat level depends on how much sriracha you add. Start with one teaspoon for mild warmth, then increase gradually if you prefer a stronger kick