This Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl is a simple and tasty meal that is full of bold flavor. It has crispy chicken, soft rice, and a creamy spicy sauce that brings everything together. Every bite is rich, a little sweet, and a little spicy.
This is a great recipe for busy days. It is easy to make and uses simple ingredients. If you enjoy easy chicken rice bowls or quick dinner ideas, this recipe is a perfect choice.
Why You Will Love This Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe
- Quick and easy for lunch or dinner
- Crispy chicken with creamy spicy sauce
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep
- Filling and satisfying
- Better than takeout at home
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Oil for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
For the Bowl
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more juicy and tender meat
- If you do not have buttermilk, mix 1/2 cup milk with 1 tsp vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes
- Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise for a lighter sauce
- Adjust the hot sauce to control spice level
- Use jasmine rice for a soft texture or brown rice for a healthier option
- You can air fry the chicken instead of frying in oil
Step-by-Step Instructions for Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl
Prepare the Chicken
Place the cut chicken pieces into a medium bowl. Pour the buttermilk over the chicken. Make sure all the pieces are coated well. Let the chicken sit for at least 10 minutes. This step helps soften the chicken and adds moisture, which keeps it juicy after cooking.
Make the Coating Mixture
In a separate bowl, add flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix everything well so the spices are spread evenly. This coating will help create a crispy outer layer on the chicken.
Coat the Chicken Pieces
Take each piece of chicken from the buttermilk and place it into the flour mixture. Press lightly so the coating sticks well. Make sure each piece is fully covered. Shake off any extra flour and place the coated chicken aside on a plate.
Heat the Oil
Pour oil into a deep pan and heat it over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking. To test, drop a small bit of flour into the oil. If it bubbles right away, the oil is ready.
Fry the Chicken
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Do not add too many pieces at once. Fry in small batches so the chicken cooks evenly. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel to drain extra oil.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a clean bowl, add mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, and honey. Mix slowly until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust if needed by adding more honey for sweetness or more hot sauce for spice.
Toss the Chicken in Sauce
Add the warm fried chicken into the bowl with the sauce. Gently mix until every piece is coated. Make sure the chicken stays crispy while getting covered in the creamy sauce.
Prepare the Rice Base
Cook the rice ahead of time and keep it warm. Fluff the rice with a fork so it is soft and not clumped together. Warm rice helps the flavors blend better in the bowl.
Assemble the Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl
Take a serving bowl and add a layer of rice at the bottom. Place the saucy chicken on top of the rice. Add shredded lettuce and carrots on the side. Sprinkle green onions and sesame seeds over the top. Serve right away while warm.
Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl
- Let the chicken rest in buttermilk for better flavor and texture
- Do not overcrowd the pan when frying
- Keep oil temperature steady for even cooking
- Toss chicken in sauce just before serving to keep it crispy
- Use fresh, warm rice for best results
- Taste the sauce before mixing to adjust flavor
Variations and Add-Ins for Chicken Rice Bowls
- Add sliced cucumbers for a fresh crunch
- Include avocado for a creamy texture
- Use grilled or baked chicken for a lighter version
- Add a fried or boiled egg for extra protein
- Mix in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli
- Add a squeeze of lime for a fresh flavor
What to Serve With Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl
- Spring rolls
- Light cucumber salad
- Clear vegetable soup
- Lemon iced tea
- Fresh fruit bowl
Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients
Method
- Add chicken pieces to a bowl and pour buttermilk over them. Let sit for 10 minutes to soften the meat.
- In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly combined.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk and coat each piece well in the flour mixture. Press lightly so coating sticks.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat until hot. Test with a small piece to check if it bubbles.
- Fry chicken in small batches for 5 to 7 minutes, turning as needed, until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In a clean bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, and honey until smooth and creamy.
- Add fried chicken to the sauce and gently toss until all pieces are coated evenly.
- Add warm rice to serving bowls and fluff it lightly.
- Place saucy chicken over the rice. Add lettuce, carrots, and toppings.
- Serve immediately while warm for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Adjust spice level based on preference
- Best served fresh for crispy texture
- Can be air fried at 200°C for about 12 to 15 minutes
This Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl recipe is simple, quick, and full of flavor. The crispy chicken with creamy spicy sauce makes every bite really good. It is a great meal for busy days and easy enough to make anytime. Once you try it, it can easily become a favorite in your kitchen.
