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If you are craving something that packs a punch of flavor and delivers killer crunch, this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is the answer This has become my go to for weeknight dinners when I want something fun easy and guaranteed to impress everyone at the table The combination of crispy chicken tossed in a spicy creamy sauce served over fresh veggies and rice is utterly addictive
My family could never get enough of this When I first made it we ended up scrapping the rest of the weekly meal plan and remaking it three more times in a row
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: Choose firm fresh pieces for the juiciest result Cut into equal bite size chunks for even cooking
- All purpose flour: Helps seal in moisture and gives the chicken a nice base layer
- Eggs: Beaten eggs act as glue so the coating sticks
- Panko breadcrumbs: Give extra crispiness Panko is lighter than regular breadcrumbs and creates a crunchier shell
- Mayonnaise: Creamy base for the bang bang sauce Opt for full fat for best texture
- Sweet chili sauce: Adds mild tangy sweetness to the sauce The higher the fruit content the better
- Sriracha sauce: This brings the heat Adjust amount to suit your spice preference
- Cooked rice: Steamed white or brown rice makes a hearty bed Choose jasmine or basmati for an aromatic touch
- Shredded lettuce: Adds freshness and lightness Choose crisp firm leaves
- Sliced cucumbers: Gives cool crunch Look for small seedless cucumbers for extra snap
- Shredded carrots: Slightly sweet and colorful Try grating them fresh for maximum flavor
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken Not too much just enough to highlight flavor
- Oil for frying: Use a neutral high smoke point oil like canola sunflower or peanut oil for best crispiness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut chicken breast into bite size pieces and season all over with salt and pepper This ensures the chicken is flavorful from the inside out
- Coat the Chicken:
- Set up three shallow bowls Place flour in the first beaten eggs in the second and panko breadcrumbs in the third Dip each piece of chicken first into flour tapping off any excess then into egg and finally into panko crumbs for a thick even layer
- Fry the Chicken:
- Pour oil into a pan until it covers the bottom by half an inch Heat over medium until shimmering but not smoking Add chicken in batches and fry about four to five minutes per side turning until all sides are golden brown and chicken is cooked through Drain on paper towels for crispiness
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a small bowl whisk together mayonnaise sweet chili sauce and sriracha Taste and adjust for more heat or sweetness if you want The sauce should be silky smooth and bright orange
- Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide cooked rice among bowls Top each with shredded lettuce cucumber slices and carrots Arrange fried chicken pieces on top so everyone gets a mix of flavors and textures
- Drizzle and Serve:
- Spoon bang bang sauce generously over chicken Serve right away so the coating stays crisp My family always dig in before I even sit down
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My favorite part is the bang bang sauce no matter what else I make I find myself whipping up extra batches to use on tacos or as a dipping sauce for roasted veggies One night my kiddo helped me fry the chicken and now Friday dinner is always bang bang night in our house
Storage Tips
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days Reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back the crunch Assemble bowls fresh at serving for best flavor To keep vegetables crisp store them separately from the rice and chicken
Ingredient Substitutions
Try using boneless chicken thighs for more flavor or swap in extra firm tofu for a vegetarian option Greek yogurt works as a lighter base for the sauce if you want to cut down on fat Gluten free panko and flour can be used for those with allergies
Serving Suggestions
Bang Bang Chicken Bowl shines as a main meal but is also fantastic over quinoa for extra nutrition Serve with lime wedges and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a fun finish Or make mini bowls for a party spread
Cultural Context
This dish was inspired by popular Asian American fusion restaurants where bang bang sauce is a staple The flavors are bold and playful with roots in both American comfort food and Asian cuisine traditions
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you achieve extra crispy chicken?
Use panko breadcrumbs for breading and fry at the proper oil temperature to ensure a crunchy coating on the chicken pieces.
- → How can I make the sauce less spicy?
Reduce the amount of sriracha in the sauce or add more mayonnaise to mellow the heat without sacrificing flavor.
- → Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Yes, shrimp or tofu both work well and pair nicely with the bang bang sauce for variation.
- → What vegetables can I add to the bowl?
Bell peppers, avocado, or snap peas add crunch and color to the base of lettuce, cucumber, and carrots.
- → How do I make a healthier version?
Try baking the breaded chicken pieces instead of frying to reduce the fat content, while still achieving a crispy texture.
- → Is it possible to prepare components in advance?
Absolutely; you can cook the rice, prep the vegetables, and even fry the chicken ahead of time, then assemble just before serving.