I vividly remember the first time I tasted bang bang chicken. It was at a tiny, unassuming restaurant, and the explosion of sweet, spicy, creamy flavors completely blew my mind! Trying to recreate that experience at home led me down a delicious path of experimentation, and now I’m thrilled to share my own take with you. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe you’ll ever make! Prepare to have your taste buds dance!
Why You’ll LOVE This Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Okay, let’s be honest, there are a million chicken recipes out there. So why choose this one? Because this Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl isn’t just another meal; it’s an experience! It’s a symphony of flavors and textures, all coming together in one satisfying bowl. Think crispy, juicy chicken coated in a creamy, spicy sauce, nestled on a bed of fluffy rice, and topped with fresh, vibrant veggies. Are you drooling yet? Here’s what makes it so irresistible:
- Unbelievable Flavor: The bang bang sauce is the star. It’s sweet, spicy, tangy, and totally addictive.
- Easy to Customize: Don’t like it too spicy? Dial back the chili garlic sauce. Want more veggies? Load ’em up! This recipe is your canvas.
- Quick and Easy: Forget hours in the kitchen. This comes together surprisingly fast, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy delicious, healthy lunches all week long.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a dinner party, this bowl is guaranteed to be a hit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the list! Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, and the rest are easily found at any grocery store. Here’s a breakdown:
For the Chicken:
- Chicken Breast: About 1.5 pounds, cut into bite-sized pieces. I prefer breast meat, but you could use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Cornstarch: This is the secret to that crispy, restaurant-quality chicken.
- Egg: Helps the cornstarch adhere to the chicken.
- Salt and Pepper: To season the chicken.
- Oil: For frying. Vegetable or canola oil works best.
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- Mayonnaise: The base of our creamy sauce. Use your favorite brand.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds sweetness and a touch of heat.
- Sriracha: For that extra kick! Adjust the amount to your spice preference.
- Rice Vinegar: Adds a tangy brightness to balance the sweetness.
- Honey: For a touch of sweetness and to help the sauce thicken.
- Chili Garlic Sauce: This is what really elevates the spice level. Use sparingly if you’re sensitive to heat.
For the Bowls:
- Cooked Rice: Use your favorite type of rice. White, brown, or jasmine rice all work well.
- Shredded Carrots: Adds a nice crunch and sweetness.
- Shredded Cabbage: For texture and freshness.
- Sliced Green Onions: For a pop of flavor.
- Sesame Seeds: For garnish and added flavor.
- Optional Toppings: Avocado slices, edamame, chopped peanuts, cilantro – get creative!
Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying your own Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl in no time.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together the egg, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Then, dredge the chicken in cornstarch, ensuring each piece is fully coated. This will give you that amazing crispy texture.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat about ½ inch of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (test it by dropping a tiny piece of cornstarch – it should sizzle immediately), carefully add the chicken in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan! Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should be beautifully crisp and juicy.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: While the chicken is frying, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, honey, and chili garlic sauce in a bowl. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Want it spicier? Add more sriracha or chili garlic sauce. Prefer it sweeter? Add a touch more honey.
- Coat the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, drain it on paper towels to remove any excess oil. Then, add the chicken to the bowl of bang bang sauce and toss to coat evenly. Make sure every piece is generously covered in that delicious sauce!
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice among bowls. Top with the bang bang chicken, shredded carrots, shredded cabbage, and sliced green onions.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and any other toppings you desire. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Success Tips for the Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
These tips will help you achieve Bang Bang Chicken Bowl perfection every time!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying the chicken in batches ensures that it gets crispy and doesn’t steam. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken.
- Adjust the Spice Level: The beauty of this recipe is that you can customize the spice to your liking. Start with a small amount of sriracha and chili garlic sauce, and then add more until you reach your desired heat level. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies make a big difference in the overall flavor and texture of the bowl. Look for bright, crisp carrots and cabbage.
- Make Ahead Tip: You can cook the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the chicken and toss it with the sauce. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings! Avocado adds creaminess, edamame adds protein, and chopped peanuts add crunch. The possibilities are endless!
Variations and Substitutions
Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas to customize your Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl:
- Chicken Substitute: Use shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas instead of chicken. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Rice Substitute: Try quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even noodles instead of rice.
- Vegetable Variations: Add bell peppers, broccoli florets, or snap peas for extra veggies.
- Sauce Variations: Experiment with different sauces! A peanut sauce or a teriyaki sauce would also be delicious. Have you ever tried Mouthwatering Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl? So good!
- Make it Healthier: Use light mayonnaise and a sugar-free honey substitute to reduce the calories. Load up on the veggies and use brown rice. Consider trying something like the Healthy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl
Serving Suggestions
This Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few ideas to round it out:
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bowl.
- Spring Rolls: Serve with fresh spring rolls and peanut sauce for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
- Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt is a healthy and satisfying snack.
- Soup: A light miso soup or wonton soup would be a delicious accompaniment.
Why This Recipe Works
This Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl isn’t just about throwing ingredients together; it’s about a careful balance of flavors and textures that work together to create a truly unforgettable dish. The crispy chicken provides a satisfying crunch, while the creamy bang bang sauce delivers a sweet, spicy, and tangy kick. The fresh veggies add brightness and freshness, and the rice provides a comforting base. It’s a complete package that satisfies all the senses!
The technique of coating the chicken in cornstarch before frying is key to achieving that restaurant-quality crispiness. The cornstarch creates a barrier that prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil, resulting in a perfectly golden-brown and crunchy exterior. The bang bang sauce is also carefully crafted to balance the sweetness, spiciness, and tanginess. Each ingredient plays a role in creating a harmonious flavor profile that will leave you wanting more. I recently tried a similar recipe with a corn twist. I think you would love the STREET CORN CHICKEN RICE BOWL. It is a great alternative if you are looking for something similar.
Speaking of other chicken dishes, there are so many amazing variations you can try! If you’re in the mood for something with a bit more ginger and garlic, you might enjoy Spicy Ginger Chicken Delight. The ginger adds a warmth and depth of flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. Or, if you’re looking for a simple but flavorful dish, try Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. It’s packed with fresh corn, herbs, and spices, and it’s a great way to use up leftover grilled chicken.
And don’t forget about the importance of fresh ingredients! Using high-quality chicken, fresh veggies, and flavorful sauces will make a world of difference in the final result. So take the time to source the best ingredients you can find, and you’ll be rewarded with a truly exceptional meal.
Finally, remember that cooking is all about experimentation and having fun! Don’t be afraid to try new things, adjust the recipe to your liking, and get creative with your toppings. The most important thing is to enjoy the process and create a meal that you love. Maybe next time, I’ll share my recipe for Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken. That is a really great recipe. You will not regret it!
Conclusion
So there you have it – my ultimate Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe! I promise you, this is one recipe you’ll be making again and again. It’s easy, delicious, and totally customizable. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this flavor-packed dish. Now go forth and create some culinary magic!
What makes this Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl recipe so special?
This recipe offers an unbelievable flavor from the sweet, spicy, and tangy bang bang sauce. It’s also easy to customize to your spice preference, quick to make, perfect for meal prep, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Can I adjust the spice level of the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?
Yes, you can easily adjust the spice level! The recipe recommends starting with a small amount of sriracha and chili garlic sauce and adding more to reach your desired heat. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
What are some variations I can make to the Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?
You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas. For the rice, try quinoa, cauliflower rice, or noodles. Other variations include adding different vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, and experimenting with sauces like peanut or teriyaki sauce.
What is the secret to getting the chicken crispy?
The secret is to dredge the chicken in cornstarch after coating it in an egg mixture. Also, make sure you don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; fry the chicken in batches to ensure it gets crispy and doesn’t steam.
BANG BANG CHICKEN BOWLS!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together the egg, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat.
- Dredge the chicken in cornstarch, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
- Heat about ½ inch of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot (test it with a tiny piece of cornstarch), carefully add the chicken in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan!
- Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain the chicken on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
- While the chicken is frying, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, honey, and chili garlic sauce in a bowl.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
- Add the cooked chicken to the bowl of bang bang sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Divide the cooked rice among bowls.
- Top with the bang bang chicken, shredded carrots, shredded cabbage, and sliced green onions.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and any other toppings you desire.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
