Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with flavor and is sure to please everyone at the table, then you’ve found it with this Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl! This recipe has become a beloved staple in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The crispy fried chicken, paired with a creamy and spicy bang bang sauce, makes each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation!

What I love most about this dish is its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or make extra sauce for those who like it spicy. It’s not just a meal; it’s an opportunity to gather around the table and enjoy good food together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: The crispy chicken and tasty sauce are sure to win over even the pickiest eaters!
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level of the sauce.
• Satisfying Meal: With fluffy rice and crunchy veggies, this bowl is both hearty and nutritious.
• Great Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers for lunch the next day; they taste just as good!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need any fancy ingredients here—just simple, wholesome staples that come together beautifully. Gather these items to create your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl.

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

For the Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tbsp sriracha sauce

For the Bowl

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• ½ cup sliced cucumbers
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Oil for frying

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or prefer. Here are some tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken thighs or even tofu for a plant-based version.
• Change up the veggies: Add bell peppers, avocado, or steamed broccoli for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Increase the amount of sriracha in your bang bang sauce if you love heat!
• Go grain-free: Serve over cauliflower rice or quinoa instead of traditional rice for a low-carb option.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and pepper. This step adds essential flavor right from the start. Then, dredge each piece in flour, dip it in beaten eggs, and coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. This three-step process ensures that every bite is crispy and golden brown.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry them until they turn golden brown and are cooked through—this should take about 4–6 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels if desired; this helps remove any excess oil while keeping that crunch intact.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth. This creamy bang bang sauce is where all the magic happens! The combination of flavors creates that signature taste everyone loves.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

Now for the fun part! In serving bowls, layer cooked rice as your base. Top with shredded lettuce, sliced cucumbers, and shredded carrots for freshness. Finally, place those crispy chicken pieces on top and drizzle generously with your homemade bang bang sauce.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your creation right away while everything is fresh and warm! This dish is not only satisfying but also brimming with flavor—a true crowd-pleaser at any meal!

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl

Making the perfect Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl is all about attention to detail and a pinch of love. Follow these tips to elevate your dish!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken, vegetables, and sauces enhance the flavors and textures in your bowl, making every bite a delightful experience.

• Double breading for crunch: For an extra crispy chicken, you can dip the chicken pieces in flour and egg again after the first panko coating before frying. This creates a thicker crust that stays crunchy longer.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce. You can also add a dash more sweet chili sauce for sweetness if desired.

• Let it drain: After frying, allow the chicken to rest on paper towels for a minute. This helps retain its crispiness by reducing excess oil.

• Customize your veggies: Feel free to mix in or replace the vegetables with your favorites, like bell peppers or snap peas, for added color and nutrition.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl

A beautiful presentation can make this dish even more appealing! Layering ingredients thoughtfully not only enhances visual appeal but also ensures each bite is packed with flavor.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle some fresh chopped green onions on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and an extra crunch that complements the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious touch and bright green color to your plate. It’s simple but effective!
• Miso soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting complement to your rice bowl, balancing flavors perfectly.
• Edamame: These protein-packed soybeans offer a satisfying bite and can be enjoyed warm or cold as a light side option.
• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing can add a tangy crunch that contrasts well with the richness of the fried chicken.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress your friends and family with this delightful Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, homemade dish throughout the week. The components can be prepared in advance and assembled quickly when you’re ready to eat.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the fried chicken pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Store cooked rice in a separate container; it will also keep well for about 3 days.
• Fresh vegetables, like lettuce, cucumbers, and carrots, are best stored separately to maintain their crispness.

Freezing

• For longer storage, the fried chicken can be frozen. Place in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The fried chicken will last up to 2 months in the freezer.
• Cooked rice can also be frozen in portions for up to 6 months.

Reheating

• To reheat fried chicken, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave reheating is an option for convenience; heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm but may not retain its crispiness.
• Reheat cooked rice in the microwave with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all components ahead of time—just store them separately and assemble when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with my Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl?

You can enjoy your bowl as is or pair it with spring rolls or a side salad for a complete meal.

How spicy is the bang bang sauce?

The spiciness can be adjusted based on how much sriracha you add. Feel free to start with less and increase according to your taste preference.

Can I substitute ingredients for my Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl?

Yes! You can use different proteins like tofu or shrimp if you prefer. Also, adjust the veggies based on what you have on hand!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl! The balance of flavors and textures—from crispy chicken to fresh veggies—makes it truly special. This recipe is not only easy but also versatile enough for any occasion. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try it!