This Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is full of tasty flavors! With crispy chicken topped with a sweet and spicy sauce, it’s a delicious treat that’s quick to make.
You can serve it over rice or salad for a satisfying meal. I love how it makes for a great weeknight dinner without a lot of fuss—perfect for when I’m short on time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts work best for this recipe as they’re lean and cook quickly. You could also use chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even tofu for a vegetarian take.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the chicken a nice crunch. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture will be a bit different. You could also crush cornflakes for a unique crunch!
Rice: You can use white or brown rice, depending on your preference. Quinoa or cauliflower rice are great alternatives if you’re looking for a healthier or gluten-free option.
Bang Bang Sauce: This sauce is key for flavor! If you want it spicier, add more sriracha. For a lighter version, try Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for the sauce.
How Do I Get the Chicken Extra Crispy?
The secret to crispy chicken is in the breading process. Make sure to follow these steps for great results:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps the breading stick better.
- Dredge the chicken pieces in flour first, then egg, then panko. Press the panko onto the chicken to ensure it sticks!
- Fry the chicken in hot oil, but don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary to keep the oil temperature up, which helps achieve that crispy texture.
- After frying, let the chicken drain on paper towels. This step helps remove excess oil and keeps it crispy even as it sits.
Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Bowl:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 to 2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bang Bang Chicken Bowl will take about 30 minutes to prepare, including cooking time. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavors that everyone will enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey until smooth. Taste and adjust the sriracha if you like more heat. Set the sauce aside for later.
2. Prepare and Season the Chicken:
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt and pepper. This adds flavor to the chicken!
3. Set Up a Breading Station:
Get three shallow bowls ready: one with flour, another with the beaten eggs, and the last with panko breadcrumbs. This will help you easily coat the chicken.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Take each piece of chicken and coat it in flour first, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally, coat it with panko breadcrumbs. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick well.
5. Fry the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken pieces. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. When done, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any extra oil.
6. Assemble the Bowls:
Divide the cooked rice between serving bowls. On top of the rice, add a layer of shredded lettuce or cabbage, followed by the shredded carrots and the crispy chicken pieces.
7. Add the Sauce and Garnish:
Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce generously over the top of each bowl. Finish with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro if you like.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Bowls immediately while everything is fresh and warm. Enjoy the delightful mix of textures and flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Proteins Besides Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even tempeh for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly, especially for shrimp, which cooks faster than chicken.
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but they won’t be as crispy. You can also crush up cornflakes or use crushed nuts for a unique texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a hot oven or a skillet to help regain its crispiness, rather than using the microwave, which can make it soggy.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the Bang Bang sauce in advance! It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken slightly when chilled.
