This Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a winner! It’s packed with juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy, spicy sauce that makes every bite exciting.
I love how quick it is to make—just whip it all together and enjoy! Plus, it’s perfect for those busy days when you want something tasty without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Thighs are more flavorful and juicy, but feel free to use any chicken cuts you prefer—just adjust the cooking time based on thickness.
Rice: I recommend jasmine or white rice for a fluffy base. If you want a healthier option, try brown rice or cauliflower rice as a low-carb substitute.
Cabbage: I like using both green and purple cabbage for color and crunch. If you can’t find cabbage, shredded lettuce or spinach makes a nice replacement.
Bang Bang Sauce: Mayonnaise is the base, but you can swap it with Greek yogurt or plant-based mayo for a lighter version. Adjust the sriracha according to your heat preference—mild or wild!
How Do I Cook Chicken to Perfection?
Cooking chicken perfectly is crucial for this dish. Here’s how to get it tender and flavorful:
- Start with even thickness: If your chicken breasts are uneven, pound them to ensure they cook evenly.
- Season well: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; it elevates the flavor.
- Watch your heat: Medium heat allows the chicken to brown nicely without burning. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side.
- Let it rest: Always let cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices.
Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bowl:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups cooked white rice or jasmine rice
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup thinly sliced cabbage (green or purple)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts (or thighs if you choose) generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This helps enhance the flavor! Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken in the pan. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink in the middle. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly.
2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the chicken is resting, you can whip up the Bang Bang sauce! In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha (adjust based on how spicy you like it), honey or sugar, and lime juice. Whisk them together until smooth and well combined. This sauce is what makes your chicken bowl so delicious!
3. Assemble Your Bowls:
Now, let’s put it all together! Start by dividing the cooked rice evenly between bowls. Next, top the rice with the shredded carrots, sliced cabbage, and avocado. Then, add the sliced chicken on top of the veggies. Don’t forget to drizzle the Bang Bang sauce generously over everything! If you like, sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top for a nice touch.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
Once your bowls are assembled, you’re ready to dig in! This meal is colorful, packed with flavor, and full of fresh ingredients. Enjoy your delicious Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl!
FAQ About the Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! Feel free to use shrimp, tofu, or even diced pork for a different twist. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly: shrimp takes about 3-4 minutes, while tofu may need a bit longer depending on thickness.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
To lighten it up, you can swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or reduce the amount of sauce. Using brown rice instead of white rice can also add more fiber to the dish. Adding more veggies like bell peppers or snap peas can increase the nutritional value!
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance—store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, just assemble the bowls and heat everything up until warm.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave gently or warm in a skillet. Just be sure to store the sauce separately to keep the veggies from getting soggy!
