Name: Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Breast (substitute with chicken thighs for extra moisture); 2 cups Mixed Vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas); 2 cups Rice (white rice, quinoa, or brown rice recommended); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise; 1/4 cup Sweet Chili Sauce; 2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust to taste for spice level)

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Introduction

The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a quick and customizable meal packed with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a creamy, spicy sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this dish combines simple ingredients with bold flavors for an enjoyable eating experience.

A bowl filled with four main sections: soft white rice on the left side, bright orange shredded carrots on the top left, fresh green avocado pieces cut into chunks on the top right, and grilled golden brown chicken cubes with char marks in the center. The chicken is drizzled with a creamy light brown sauce and garnished with chopped fresh green herbs, all set against a white marbled texture background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast (substitute chicken thighs for extra moisture)
2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas)
2 cups rice (white, quinoa, or brown rice work well)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to spice preference)
Oil for cooking

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the rice according to package instructions until fluffy, usually about 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil, then cook the chicken breast for 5-7 minutes until golden and fully cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
Step 3: Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet with the chicken and sauté for 3-4 minutes, aiming for tender yet crisp vegetables.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until well blended to create the Bang Bang sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the bowl by placing a generous scoop of rice in each serving bowl, topping it with the chicken and vegetables, then drizzling with the Bang Bang sauce.
Step 6: Optionally, garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

Ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally for safe consumption and juicy results.
Adjust the amount of sriracha to control the spiciness of the sauce to your liking.
Don’t overcook vegetables; keep them tender-crisp to retain color and nutrients.
Try swapping chicken for shrimp or tofu to vary the protein.
Use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a different texture and nutritional boost.
Add toppings like sliced avocado, cilantro, or crunchy peanuts for extra texture and flavor.
Mix a little Greek yogurt or sour cream into the sauce for a creamier texture.
A squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of zest can brighten the overall dish.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze assembled bowls in airtight containers for up to 2 months—ensure they are completely cooled before freezing. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, making sure the chicken reaches 165°F again for safety.

How to Serve

In a white bowl on a white marbled surface, there is a vibrant dish with five visible layers. At the bottom left corner, a bed of fluffy white rice forms the first layer. Next to it, on the top left, finely shredded bright orange carrots create a neat pile. In the middle, slightly charred golden-brown grilled chicken pieces, cut into cubes, are arranged closely together and sprinkled with green herbs. To the right of the chicken, there are fresh avocado chunks with a pale green color, evenly sized. Covering the chicken and part of the avocado, a creamy light brown sauce with a smooth texture is drizzled, topped with more herbs for garnish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

How do I choose ripe vegetables for my Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?

Look for vegetables that are vibrant, firm, and free from blemishes or wilting. Bell peppers should be shiny and crisp, while broccoli should have deep green, tightly closed florets. Fresh vegetables will enhance the flavor and texture of your bowl.

What’s the best way to store leftovers from the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. When reheating, ensure the entire dish reaches 165°F to keep the chicken safe to eat.

Can I freeze the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled bowls for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool them completely before sealing in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What should I do if my chicken is dry?

Dry chicken usually results from overcooking. To prevent this, consider brining the chicken for about 30 minutes before cooking, or remove it from heat as soon as it’s cooked through. Adding extra sauce when assembling the bowl can also improve juiciness.

Can my pets eat the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?

It’s best not to feed pets the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl due to the spicy sauce containing sriracha and sweet chili sauce, which can be harmful. Plain cooked chicken and vegetables without seasoning can be a safe treat in moderation.

What if I have allergies to certain ingredients?

This recipe is highly customizable. For allergies, substitute ingredients as needed, such as using gluten-free soy sauce or dairy-free options like silken tofu or avocado instead of mayonnaise. Adjust the recipe to suit your dietary requirements safely.