This Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a fun mix of crispy chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy, zesty sauce that gives it a kick! It’s quick to make and packed with flavor.
You can’t go wrong with a dish like this! I love how it all comes together in one bowl; less mess means more eating time! Plus, the sauce is perfect for dipping extra chicken! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are perfect here. If you don’t have chicken, consider using tofu for a vegetarian option or shrimp for a seafood twist!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a lovely crunch. If you prefer, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but your coating might be less crispy. For gluten-free, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds both sweetness and heat. If you’re out, a mix of honey and hot sauce can mimic the flavor. Or, for a lighter option, use a mix of yogurt and a drop of hot sauce.
Sriracha Sauce: Adjust the level of heat by adding less or more. If you don’t have sriracha, any hot sauce of your choice works, or try some chili powder for a different spice flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness. If you’re not a fan, try parsley or omit it altogether. You could also use fresh basil for a unique twist!
How Can I Get My Chicken Extra Crispy?
Frying the chicken just right is key to that perfect crunch! First, ensure your oil is hot before adding the chicken; this helps seal the outside quickly. Try these steps:
- Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature (around 350°F is ideal).
- Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan; too many pieces can lower the oil temperature.
- Let the chicken rest for a moment on paper towels right after frying to get rid of excess oil.
With these tips, your chicken will be crispy and delicious every time! Happy cooking!
Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (adjust for heat preference)
For Assembly:
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
- Cooking oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook, so you can enjoy your Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl in about 35 minutes total! Perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly and make them easy to eat!
2. Set Up a Breading Station:
Get three shallow bowls ready: one with flour, salt, and pepper mixed together, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with panko breadcrumbs. This will help you coat the chicken perfectly!
3. Bread the Chicken:
Take each piece of chicken and first coat it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated. This will give you that nice, crispy texture!
4. Fry the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan). Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. When done, let them drain on paper towels.
5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Mix well to create a creamy, spicy sauce that will take your dish to the next level. Adjust the sriracha to fit your preferred spice level!
6. Assemble the Bowls:
Start with a generous scoop of cooked rice at the bottom of each bowl. This will be the hearty base of your meal.
7. Add the Toppings:
Layer on the fried chicken pieces, followed by the shredded lettuce or cabbage, shredded carrots, and sliced cucumbers. Make it colorful!
8. Drizzle with Sauce:
Pour the Bang Bang sauce generously over the chicken and veggies, making sure everything is well coated.
9. Garnish:
Top everything off with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro, if using. This adds extra flavor and a lovely touch to your bowls!
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig in while it’s hot and enjoy your delicious Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl! Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep!
FAQ for Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. The safest way is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight. For quick thawing, submerge the sealed chicken in cold water for about 1 hour. Make sure to pat it dry before breading for the crispiest results!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Bang Bang Sauce?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise. It will still give you a creamy texture but with added protein. You can also use sour cream for a slightly tangy flavor!
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
You can make this meal healthier by baking the chicken instead of frying it. Simply coat the chicken as instructed, then place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. This greatly reduces the oil used!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven. Keep in mind that the chicken may lose some crispiness after reheating, but you can pop it in the oven for a few minutes to help regain some crunch!
