Quick Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: Tangy & Creamy (Print Version)

Whip up a vibrant, creamy Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl! This recipe brings crispy chicken and a zesty sauce together for a weeknight dinner win.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Dietary: Contains Gluten, Dairy (adaptable)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Crispy Chicken

01 - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
02 - 1/4 cup cornstarch
03 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
04 - 1/2 tsp onion powder
05 - Salt and black pepper to taste
06 - 2-3 tbsp vegetable oil, for frying

→ That Zesty Bang Bang Sauce

07 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat)
08 - 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
09 - 1-2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to your heat preference)
10 - 1 tbsp rice vinegar

→ Bowl Building Essentials

11 - 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
12 - 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced or julienned
13 - 1 large carrot, peeled and julienned

→ Finishing Touches

14 - 2 green onions, thinly sliced
15 - Fresh cilantro, chopped
16 - Toasted sesame seeds (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, let's get that chicken ready. Slice your chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, maybe about an inch or so. I usually pat them super dry with a paper towel; this is where I always forget to do that, and it makes a difference for crispiness! Toss them in a bowl with your cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is coated. It'll look a little dusty, but that's what we want for that glorious crunch later.
02 - While your chicken is chilling, let's get saucy! In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha (start with less, you can always add more!), and rice vinegar. Give it a good taste. Does it need more heat? More tang? This is your moment to adjust it to your liking. I once added too much vinegar and had to balance it with a tiny pinch of sugar. It’s all about finding that perfect sweet, spicy, creamy balance for your Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl.
03 - Heat a good amount of oil in a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle, but not smoking. Carefully add your chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. This is super important! If you cram too many in, they’ll steam instead of crisp. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. They should smell incredible, like a little bit of heaven. Work in batches if you need to.
04 - While the chicken cooks, if you haven't already, get your jasmine rice going. I usually cook mine according to package directions, aiming for fluffy perfection. I sometimes forget to salt the water, and then it's a bit bland, so don't be like me! A good rice base is crucial for soaking up all the deliciousness of this Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl. It's the unsung hero, honestly.
05 - Once your chicken is cooked, transfer it to a clean bowl. Pour about half of your amazing Bang Bang sauce over the crispy chicken and toss gently to coat. You want every piece glistening and flavorful. This step is where the magic really starts to happen, seeing that vibrant sauce clinging to the chicken. Don't be shy; get in there with a spoon and make sure it's all covered.
06 - Now for the fun part! Divide the cooked jasmine rice among your serving bowls. Top generously with the sauced Bang Bang chicken. Arrange your fresh cucumber and carrot ribbons on top. Drizzle with a little more of that irresistible Bang Bang sauce if you like (I always do!). Finish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and fresh cilantro. It should look vibrant, smell absolutely divine, and taste like pure happiness. Enjoy your homemade Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl!

# Notes:

01 - Don't overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken, otherwise, it won't get crispy! Trust me on this one, I've made that mistake too many times.
02 - The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good whisk before serving to bring it back to life.
03 - If you're out of sriracha, a pinch of red pepper flakes works in a pinch for heat, but the flavor profile will be a little different.
04 - A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro really makes this Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl pop, both visually and taste-wise.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - Large Skillet
02 - Whisk
03 - Mixing Bowls
04 - Tongs

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 550 Calories
Total Fat: 30g Fat
Total Carbohydrate: 45g Carbs
Protein: 30g Protein

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