This Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a fun mix of crispy chicken bites, fresh veggies, and a tasty, spicy sauce. It’s quick to make and full of flavor, perfect for any weeknight!
You might find yourself wanting a second helping—trust me, it’s that good! I love serving it over rice or noodles; it makes dinner feel a bit fancy without the fuss. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. They both work great, but thighs are juicier. If you’re vegetarian, you can replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a similar texture.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the chicken a delightful crunch! If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs can work, but you might lose some of that crispy texture. You can also try crushed cornflakes for a fun twist.
Bang Bang Sauce: This sauce provides the unique flavor! If you want to lighten it up, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. For those who don’t like spice, just reduce the sriracha—take it easy on the heat!
Vegetables: Feel free to switch out the veggies based on what you like or have on hand. Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas would also be delicious additions.
What’s the Best Way to Fry Chicken for this Dish?
The frying technique is important for getting that perfect crispy chicken. Here’s how to master it:
- Use a heavy skillet for even heat distribution. Medium-high heat is key so the chicken cooks quickly without absorbing too much oil.
- Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. This helps achieve a nice golden color and prevents steaming the chicken.
- Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken. You can test it by dropping a bit of breadcrumb in the oil; it should sizzle right away.
- Monitor the cooking time! About 3-4 minutes per side should do it, but check to make sure the chicken is cooked through.
Following these tips will ensure your chicken is crispy, golden, and deliciously satisfying in your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl!
Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tsp sriracha sauce (adjust to desired heat)
- 1 tsp honey (optional, for sweetness)
For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked white rice, jasmine rice, or quinoa
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced or diced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bang Bang Chicken Bowl takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. With just a few simple steps to follow, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cooking Base:
Start by cooking rice or your choice of grain according to package instructions. Keep it warm while you prepare the rest of the dish. This will be the delicious base for your bowl!
2. Set Up the Chicken Coating Stations:
Grab three separate bowls. In the first bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until fully mixed. In the third bowl, pour in the panko breadcrumbs. This will help create a crispy coating on the chicken!
3. Coat the Chicken:
Take each piece of chicken and dip it first into the seasoned flour, coating it lightly. Next, dunk it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, roll the chicken in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure it sticks well.
4. Fry the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the chicken pieces in batches. Cook each piece for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. When done, place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the chicken cooks, mix together the sauce. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey (if using). Stir well and adjust the spiciness to match your taste. This sauce is the star of the dish!
6. Assemble the Bowls:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Divide the warm cooked rice evenly among your bowls. Top it with a generous portion of shredded lettuce or cabbage, followed by the carrots, cucumber, and your crispy fried chicken pieces.
7. Drizzle the Sauce:
Spoon the bang bang sauce generously over the chicken and veggies. Don’t be shy—this sauce adds so much flavor!
8. Add the Finishing Touches:
For extra flavor and a pop of color, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top. If you like cilantro, you can add some fresh leaves as well.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your flavorful and crunchy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is ready! Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful mix of crispy, creamy, spicy, and fresh flavors.
This recipe strikes a great balance, making it a satisfying meal that’s simple to prepare. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. For best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the sealed bag method by submerging it in cold water until fully thawed.
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will work as a substitute. For an even crunchier texture, consider using crushed cornflakes or tortilla chips—both make for an interesting twist!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or gently heat them again in a skillet. If the chicken has lost some crispiness, a quick re-fry can help revive it!
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! The bang bang sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. It tastes even better after the flavors meld together. Just give it a good stir before serving to mix everything back up.
