This Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a fun mix of crispy chicken, tasty sauce, and fresh veggies. It’s a colorful treat that makes your tastebuds dance with joy!
I love how quick it is to whip up a delicious bowl. Just cook the chicken, drizzle with that creamy sauce, and you’re ready to impress! Perfect for busy nights! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a faster option, pre-cooked chicken strips or rotisserie chicken can save time.
Cornstarch or Flour: I recommend using cornstarch for a crispier coating, but all-purpose flour works well too. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend.
Vegetable Oil: Vegetable oil is great for frying, but feel free to use canola, peanut, or avocado oil. Each has a high smoke point, which helps achieve that perfect golden color.
Vegetables: Shredded lettuce or cabbage adds crunch and freshness. If you prefer, switch to spinach, arugula, or a mix of your favorite greens.
Bang Bang Sauce: Mayonnaise is key here for creaminess. You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option or even vegan mayo if you need a dairy-free version.
How Do I Get My Chicken Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy chicken comes down to the coating and frying technique. Here’s how:
- Make sure the chicken pieces are completely coated in cornstarch or flour to create a thick layer.
- Heat the oil properly before adding the chicken. The oil should shimmer, indicating it’s hot enough.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give the chicken space to cook evenly and become crispy.
- Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. This ensures it gets that lovely golden brown color.
After frying, remember to drain the chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil, allowing it to stay crispy longer!
Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bowl:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch or all-purpose flour (for coating)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp lime juice (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, making the total time around 25 minutes. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
Start by preparing the sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice if you’re using it. Stir well to combine and taste. If you want it spicier, feel free to add more sriracha. Once mixed, set it aside.
2. Coat the Chicken:
Take the chicken pieces and place them in a bowl. Add the cornstarch or flour and toss well until all chicken pieces are coated evenly. This coating will make your chicken crispy when fried!
3. Fry the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Let them fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
4. Assemble Your Bowls:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Scoop the cooked rice into serving bowls. Next, top each bowl with a handful of shredded lettuce or cabbage, followed by shredded carrots and cucumber slices. Then, add a generous portion of the crispy fried chicken on top.
5. Add the Bang Bang Sauce:
Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the chicken and veggies. Make it as saucy as you like!
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top for that extra touch. Serve your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl immediately and enjoy! It’s a delightful dish that everyone will love!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to let it sit in the refrigerator overnight or to place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing. Once thawed, pat it dry before coating.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before drizzling it over your chicken bowl.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet to keep it crispy, and add the rice and veggies to heat through as well.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the Bang Bang sauce. This way, you still get a creamy texture with added protein!
