If you’re craving something spicy, sweet, creamy, and utterly satisfying, then let us introduce you to the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl—your new favorite meal-in-a-bowl. This dish combines the crispy texture of pan-fried chicken with the bold flavors of a homemade Bang Bang sauce, all served over a fresh and hearty rice base with crunchy vegetables. It’s a delightful fusion of flavor and texture that satisfies every craving in a single bite.
In this article, we’re going to take a deep dive into the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, exploring its ingredients, step-by-step preparation, variations, nutritional benefits, serving suggestions, and much more. By the time you finish reading, not only will you be confident in cooking this dish at home, but you’ll also appreciate why it’s earned its place among the best in bold, delicious comfort food.
What Is a Bang Bang Chicken Bowl?
The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is an Americanized take on a Thai-inspired favorite. The name “Bang Bang” typically refers to the bold, spicy, and creamy sauce used to flavor the chicken. This sauce, often made from mayonnaise, sriracha, sweet chili sauce, honey, and a touch of vinegar or lime, brings a mouthwatering kick to tender, crispy chicken bites. Served over rice and topped with fresh veggies like lettuce, carrots, and cucumbers, it becomes a hearty and well-balanced bowl that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s walk through each element that makes this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl a must-try dish.
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch – essential for creating that crispy coating.
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – for pan-frying to golden perfection.
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise – the creamy base.
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce – for that sweet and slightly spicy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha – dial it up or down depending on your spice tolerance.
- 1 tablespoon honey – to balance the heat with sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice – adds the necessary acidity.
For the Bowl Base:
- 2 cups cooked white rice or jasmine rice – soft and fluffy, perfect to soak up the sauce.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage – for crunch.
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots – a fresh, sweet contrast.
- 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced – adds coolness.
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions, sesame seeds, cilantro, lime wedges

FAQs About Bang Bang Chicken Bowls
Q1: Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare all elements separately, store in airtight containers, and assemble just before serving.
Q2: Is there a low-fat version of the Bang Bang sauce?
Use low-fat or light mayo, or substitute with plain Greek yogurt to cut down on calories.
Q3: Can I bake or air-fry the chicken instead of pan-frying?
Absolutely! Baking at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or air-frying at 375°F for 15 minutes works great.
Q4: What’s a good rice substitute for a low-carb version?
Cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage makes an excellent low-carb alternative.
Q5: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, but it won’t have the same crispy texture. Consider tossing it in cornstarch and reheating in a skillet for extra crispness.
Conclusion
The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. With its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and endless customization options, this dish is a true culinary gem. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe checks every box: easy, delicious, and totally crave-worthy.
Don’t be surprised if this becomes a weekly staple in your kitchen. Once you’ve tried the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, there’s no going back. Bold, creamy, spicy, and fresh—it’s everything you want in a bowl and more.
Print
Bang Bang Chicken Bowl – Easy, Spicy, and Flavor-Packed Meal in One Bowl
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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1/2 cup cornstarch
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for pan-frying)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
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1/3 cup mayonnaise
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2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
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1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to heat preference)
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1 tablespoon honey
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1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
For the Bowl Base:
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2 cups cooked white rice or jasmine rice
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1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
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1/2 cup shredded carrots
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1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
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Optional toppings: chopped green onions, sesame seeds, cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions
Cook the Chicken:
Toss chicken pieces in cornstarch, salt, and pepper until well-coated.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and vinegar or lime juice until smooth.
Assemble the Bowls:
Divide rice among serving bowls. Top with lettuce, carrots, cucumbers, and crispy chicken.
Drizzle generously with bang bang sauce.
Serve:
Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately for a spicy-sweet, crunchy, and satisfying meal-in-a-bowl!