There’s something incredibly satisfying about a bowl meal. It’s a complete, customizable dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend lunches. And when it comes to flavor-packed bowls, the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl truly stands out.
I still remember the first time I made this recipe. I was craving something spicy, bold, and comforting—but I didn’t want to spend all night in the kitchen. Then I stumbled across a version of this dish, drawn in by its vibrant colors and the promise of that tangy-sweet Bang Bang sauce. One bite, and I was hooked. It was easy to prepare, full of flavor, and tasted like something you’d order from a trendy café.
The beauty of this bowl is its simplicity—basic ingredients, quick prep, and a sauce that transforms everything it touches. Whether you’re just learning to cook or looking for a reliable go-to meal, this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a winner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Beginner-friendly: Minimal prep and simple steps.
- Quick & easy: Ready in just 25 minutes.
- Customizable: Use your favorite veggies or swap in cauliflower rice.
- Packed with flavor: The creamy, spicy-sweet sauce ties it all together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what makes this bowl both delicious and easy to pull together:
For the Bowl:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast – Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking.
- 1 cup cooked rice – Choose white, brown, or cauliflower rice depending on your preferences.
- 1 cup mixed vegetables – A colorful mix like broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots works beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
- Salt and pepper – To season the chicken.
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise – The creamy base.
- 2 tablespoons sriracha – Adjust to taste for spice.
- 1 tablespoon honey – Adds a touch of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon lime juice – Brings a zesty, bright finish.
How to Make a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by cooking your rice according to the package directions. You can use a rice cooker for hands-off convenience. Once done, set it aside.
Beginner Tip: For fluffy, perfect rice, follow package instructions or use a rice cooker.
Step 2: Prep the Chicken
Cut the chicken into small, even pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Beginner Tip: Smaller pieces cook more quickly and evenly.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sauté until golden brown and fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes). The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Beginner Tip: Use a hot skillet to prevent sticking and get a good sear.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, mix the mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, garlic powder, and lime juice in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the spice or sweetness to your preference.
Beginner Tip: Start with the suggested amounts, then tweak to taste.
Step 5: Add the Veggies
Once the chicken is cooked, toss in the mixed vegetables. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, just until tender-crisp.
Beginner Tip: Don’t overcook the veggies—they should stay slightly crisp for great texture.
Step 6: Assemble the Bowl
Remove the skillet from the heat. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, tossing to coat everything evenly. Serve over a bed of rice and garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of extra sriracha if you like.
Beginner Tip: Make sure everything is well-coated with sauce for maximum flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked through.
- Adjust the spice by adding more or less sriracha.
- Swap in cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra crunch and color.
Why This Recipe Works for New Cooks
This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is the perfect introduction to key cooking skills—like sautéing, seasoning, and sauce-making—without overwhelming you. You’ll learn how to prep ingredients efficiently, how to build flavor in layers, and how to balance taste and texture in one dish. It’s a meal that looks and tastes impressive, but anyone can make it.
Final Thoughts
The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl proves that simple ingredients and easy techniques can lead to a seriously satisfying meal. It’s bold, flavorful, and totally customizable. Whether you’re new to cooking or just need a reliable weeknight meal, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.
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